We are surprised at how different the landscape looks this year. When we were here in 2009, it was early spring. It was cool and rainy and very, very green. Now it is exceptionally hot and dry and the hillsides are brown. There are water restrictions and the farmers (and their sheep) are suffering the effects of the drought.   

We left Christchurch after a quick stop at The Warehouse because one of us forgot to pack his underwear. The 75 kilometer drive to Akaroa was beautiful, but the roads were narrow and very winding with steep grades.  

Akaroa is on Banks Peninsula which was formed by volcanoes. The village is a historic French and British settlement with beautiful homes, galleries, shops and cafes. 

Akaroa is Maori for "long harbor" which is an apt description for its location. The town is now being visited by many cruise ships because Christchurch's other harbor was heavily damaged by the recent earthquake. The population of Akaroa is only 1000, but we read that it increases to 10,000 on some summer days.

Our campground overlooks the harbor with a lovely view.