Hi Folks well we have now arrived in Christchurch, got up early this morning for our rafting trip down the Waiau gorge. Had to wait for the other to show up then it was on with the togs - lovely - and listen to the briefing. Wish they hadn't told us that our safety couldn't be guaranteed!! and the risks involved - no I don't want to be capsized and stuck under the damn raft!! These wetsuits where uncomfortable in the NZ heat but once in the water we were not so warm. Our co-rafters were a couple of guys from UK one american and four Canadians - they were suffering from hangovers (canadians) Lizzie our guide and Ben who was training to be a guide. Davey and I are second and third on the right side of the boat just incase you don't recongize us! Davey kept telling me to paddle a bit harder then afterwards said it was because he couldn't be bothered putting so much effort into it - cheeky devil. After a lot of seriousness about what could go wrong Lizzie capsized us into the freezing cold water - after the initial shock it was fine and quite enjoyable. We managed to do everything right - yes us!! but getting back into the boat was another matter, I felt as if I was swimming nowhere - the current was quite fierce. Finally they explained that they would pull my lifejackets three times ducking me in the water the third time and pull me in - very undignified!! but I wasn't alone, the two english guys were wimps. Going though one of the rapids we had to stand up - obviously they wanted us overboard but we hit a rock and Davey's knee gave way and he fell on top of the guides - serves them right. What we didn't know was that we rafted 7km down the river and were then collected by the jet boat - I thought the Hukajet was something well this was another thing but well worth the experience. Back on dry land about 1pm hot coffee changed and then we headed for Christchurch. Found Norma and Denys house but no one in - they are taking Sharyn down to Wanaka so don't know if we will see them as we too are heading south. Christchurch is lovely - but where in NZ isn't, took the circular tram to get our bearings headed for the i-site and booked our bed for the night. Walked around the centre taking in the sights as you will see from the photos, then got a punt up the Avon, very romantic. Those who know Davey know he will not buy anything on Valentines Day it is usually the next day because it's cheaper, well its the day before this year and his excuse was the punts will all be booked out tomorrow yeh yeh. Had a great day but very tiring Davey is knackered so he is off to bed while i update the site. Love to all Lynne & Davey