Still high on Red Bull and adrenaline from our stunt plane flight we were cruising down the highway making aeroplane noises when we noticed the flash of red and blue lights behind us. Ooops! 120 dollar speeding fine later we were on our way again. Travelling more sedately towards the snow peaked Mount Cook we wound our way past turquoise lakes glistening under the scorching sun. Ever changing landscapes rolled past our windows and we soon found ourselves crossing the desert and on towards the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch.

After trawling round many hostels trying to find a room we soon discovered a music concert and street festival was taking place, hence why it was so busy. We eventually found a dismal room at a YMCA and headed straight out for food. Many aspects of Christchurch reminded us of English towns with punts lazily cruising the River Avon, shopping streets, some lovely archetecture and an old tram line, we even managed to get some fush and chups in newspaper.

The next day we enjoyed a wander through the shaded and beautiful botanical gardens, then soaked up the atmosphere watching the many street performers in town for the World Busker Festival. Acts from NZ, USA, Austrailia, the Netherlands and China were just a few we saw ranging from circus acts and jugglers to musicians, opera singers and even some LA gangsters. All very good entertainment, especially as it was free!

After an evening exploring the converted warehouses which had been turned into chic cafes, gastro pubs and bars we were up before the sun rose to take to the skies in a hot air balloon. We helped set up the balloon and as the sun rose we gently floated up over the Plains and through the clouds for an hours flight. A very surreal, peaceful and beautiful way to start the day with views across the Canterbury Plains and away to the snowy peaks of the Alps far off in the distance. Surprised by how smooth the landing was in a farmers field we cracked open the champagne to toast out safe flight and landing as tradition demands. Not a bad way to start your day!