Hi there so im in NewZealand now and i think i have fallen in love with the place already! I arrived in Christchurch on Saturday afternoon, the weather was cooler but the sun was still hot, its like nice warm day in Spring in england. i went for a wander round the Catherdel Square and had some lunch ( all i do is eat!!) and i met up with debs and Charlie who im sharing the car with. We have got a car its ok its a nissan something and is only about 3 pounds a day each so its not bad at all, (everything is a lot cheaper than i thought) that evening we went out for a meal and it was lovely and quite cheap too, it seems a nice place with a few cool bars. The next day we took a day trip to Akaroa(which means long harbour), it was a good drive up on the mountains and great views and then the road came down to the coast where the town is. it was beautiful, bit like the lake district although it was the sea. We had a walk around and then got on a boat trip. the bay was made 6 million years ago by two volcaneos eruppting and all the mountains and caves we saw on the boat were volcanic, it was great, we saw penguins and seals but no dolphins, it was a lovely and i caught the sun on my face even though it was cold. we went back and had gorgeous fish and chips and headed back to christchurch. last night i just had a quiet night at the hostel chatting to people and sorting my bags out, ready for our drive to Hanmar Springs (hots springs) today. ill fill you in more on that next time, it is such a beautiful country and apparently we havent seen the best yet, its so exciting, i just feel so at home here. i hope all is well over there, missing you all, lots of love and kisses Lou Xxx Mum and dad you would love it here so much, get a flight booked! go frist class...sod the expense.