Fortunately, Lake Tekapo to Christchurch is the last Magic Bus journey that I ever have to make in the South Island. Unfortunately, I still have six to go once I get to the North Island. And so, after a lot of rudeness and swearing from the bus driver due to him not having my name on his list (even though I booked two weeks ago), I finally and thankfully, arrived in Christchurch on the day of the big game! I couldn't wait, two months ago I had booked my ticket and now, the day had finally arrived...

I kitted myself out with face paint and a six foot England flag and I was ready to support my country! I drank a lot of cider before the game which was extremely novel to me as I hadn't had a touch of alcohol for a long while - I was rarring to go by the time the players had walked onto the pitch. After the warm-ups and National Anthems, the mighty All Blacks performed the spine-chilling Haka. It was amazing and actually, the best part of the whole game. England played rubbish and let the All Blacks walk all over them; it was embarrassing. At half time the score was 20-0 and by the end, although we had managed to put ourselves on the board, it just wasn't enough and we walked away utterly defeated, 44-12. It was great to see the All Blacks play and especially perfrom the Haka, but it has to be said, there really wasn't that much of an atmosphere at the game; no friendly banter or anything, maybe it was because the match was so one-sided.

Next thing on the agenda was a visit to the first French settlement in New Zealand, a town called Akaroa. The rain had decided to greet me on this day trip and so, not a lot of fun was had. Saying that, I don't think a lot of fun can be had in Akaroa. After a trip to the bakery and thoroughly enjoying my first steak pie - ever, I went for a stroll only to find very little - a couple more cafes, a Post Office and approximately, four shops. Having wandered around the one shop that was open, and yes, it did come to also wandering into the Post Office, I started to make my way back up the street. I then stumbled upon the local library and walked in. I spotted some sofas at one end so made my way down there and took my book from my bag and began to read. Two and a half hours later, it was time for the bus back to Christchurch - what a waste of a day, but at least I can say I have been if ever I am asked, plus, I almost got to finish my fourth book in my three weeks of being in the country - I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not?!