We really liked Christchurch.As the largest city in the south island, with 500,000 people, we found it to have lots to offer but not too busy.It is school holidays here, so there were lots of kids clubs running, and many parents and children in the parks and museums, but still it did not feel overcrowded.

We stayed very close to the centre at Stonehurst, and spent most of our time walking around the city.The first day it was raining a little, so we did lots of indoor things!We went to the Cathedral, and climbed the 134 tower steps to the viewing platforms to get great views of the city - not so great due to the weather, but still nice to get our bearings.We then went to the Art Gallery and to the Arts Centre, which is full of small craft type shops, and a sweet shop, so Graham was happy!We also went to Fazazz, which is a motorist's shop which has a large display of classic cars and memorabilia, some for sale and some just for display.

The next day we did a City Walk which took us along the canal and to the Botanical Gardens.We watched people going by on the boats, looking really cold, so decided not to have a go!The punters also sing to you along the way, which we didn't really fancy.'Waltzing Matilda' seemed to be a favourite!We had a quick look in the Canterbury Museum - it was nice, but we were a bit museumed out, so we just chose the rooms we really wanted to see and skipped the rest.We also spent some time just sitting in Cathedral Square, eating ice creams and watching the buskers and preachers attracting audiences as well as hecklers!

It was really nice just to chill out for a few days and not have to think about moving on or getting up early.However, after a couple of days we were craving a little excitement, so I booked to do a tandem skydive nearby.As it was quite expensive we just booked for me, as Graham has done many static lines and freefalls in the past.So, I got myself all psyched up for it and then it was cloudy on the morning of my jump, so they put me on standby....3 hours later it was raining, so my jump was called off!We had already stayed an extra day just for me to do this, so couldn't stay on any longer, so I will have to wait for the next place.Unfortunately the weather's not looking good for the next few days though, so I may be waiting a long time.

We took the bus to the coast to New Brighton.Not really beach weather, but we wanted to check it out for future reference.The surf looked pretty good, but after a quick look we went to a beachside cafe to get Hot Chocolate and cake.We then got the bus back to Christchurch, with the help of 2 very lovely old ladies, making sure we got the right bus!

So, it's time to move on again.For anyone coming to Christchurch, on a budget, check out Stonehurst accommodation.We've had a great stay and the WiFi was cheap.I also love the 'free food' shelf - such a good idea!

Maggie x