Round trip New Zealand, Part 5

While exploring Christchurch, we notice the statue of Robert Falcon Scott, created by his wife, Kathleen. Lyttelton, Christchurch's supply port, was the port of departure for Scott's first Antarctic expedition. The Discovery expedition lasted from 1901 to 1904. In Lyttelton, Scott lost his first expedition member, sailor Charles Bonner, who fell to his death from the mainmast. In Antarctica itself, another member, sailor George Vince, slipped on glacier ice in his flat-soled fur boots and drowned in the sea. Although the expedition lasted two winters in Antarctica for the first time, there were no further casualties. The expedition made important geographical discoveries and carried out significant pioneering work.

Robert Falcon Scott Monument, Christchurch, New Zealand

His second expedition, which he undertook from 1910 to 1913 and which went down in history as “Terra Nova,” ended in disaster, as is well known, leading to Scott's death. Not only did Amundsen reach the South Pole before him, but he also died on the way back along with his five companions. The circumstances are partly attributed to adverse weather conditions but also to poor planning. Despite his failure, Scott was revered as a hero for decades, especially in England, while Amundsen was relegated to the background. The statue shows Scott in typical polar clothing, and I wonder how, compared to today, anyone could survive even a day in Antarctica wearing such clothing. Especially since we are freezing in the cool and wet weather currently prevailing in New Zealand. The North Island in particular has seen heavy rain in recent days, leading to numerous landslides. Roads have been washed away, towns cut off, and campsites devastated. Here in Christchurch, apart from the rain, not much has happened.

Foster child Charlie

Meanwhile, the weather has calmed down a bit, and we can continue our tour of discovery through Christchurch. We walk along the Avon River with our foster child Charlie. Numerous parks and botanical gardens have been created around the Avon, inviting visitors to take a stroll. The Māori called the river Otakaro, which translates as “place of games.” While the Māori were searching for food, the children played on the riverbank. The river flows through Hagley Park and separates it from the botanical garden, which was laid out in a river bend. On the south bank, it connects to Christchurch's large city hospital. 

Avon River, Christchurch, New Zealand

After two weeks, we leave Christchurch and drive to Rangiora on the Ashley River. The town has 15,000 inhabitants and can certainly be described as a provincial backwater. Nevertheless, Rangiora has its own charm with its well-preserved old buildings. Car shows such as Street Machines and Muscle Car Madness are held here every year. Rangiora is also the only town in New Zealand that produces mead. The honey wine is exported to many countries.

Joe's Garage, a cozy pub in Rangiora, New Zealand

We play another round of golf at Rangiora Golf Course. The 18-hole course is nestled in the beautiful North Canterbury countryside, surrounded by mature trees. The course is not difficult because of its hazards but because of its length. The longest hole is a par 5 measuring 495 meters for men and 419 meters for women. At our age, when our hip rotation is already a little rusty, this is quite a challenge. But we love this unconventional style of New Zealand golf courses. The decision to take out a New Zealand golf membership is proving to be a wise one. It gives us access to all golf courses in New Zealand. Not to mention that every golf course welcomes green fee players. The green fee averages $30, or around €15, for an 18-hole round. As is customary in New Zealand, everything is done online at many courses. Reservations for tee times, scorecards, or results are entered using your membership number either from home or on the computer in the clubhouse, and that's it. Enjoy the game!

Rangiora Golf Course, New Zealand

Next week, we will enjoy farm life in Loburn County. Sheep, calves, and pigs will be our companions. Of course, no farm would be complete without a farm dog, a cat, and a few chickens, including a rooster. We will be staying in a so-called “block.” We will explain what a “block” is next week. Until then, fair winds and keep a stiff upper lip.