A different New Zealand

We've driven from Lake Tekapo to Christchurch Airport today and have seen some very different and diverse scenery.  It included the Rakaia Gorge and Peel Forest Church which I am hoping to put into extras.

This shot was taken on the road from Fairly to Geraldine and I loved the different textures and colours.  The was shortly after breakfast at the Fairly Bakehouse which consisted of Salmon and bacon pie for me and  silverside, mash and mustard pie for Rob.  Possibly one of the most unusual breakfasts we've had.  Very delicious!

The gorge is self explanatory - immensely beautiful.

The church at Peel Forest was recommended to us by Seizetheday and we were so glad we went.  It is a beautiful old church which was seriously damaged in the last earthquake.  BUT, unlike many of the other churches we have seen which are still shut up an damaged, this one has had a tremendous amount of energy put into it and is being beautifully repaired.  We were actually able to get inside, but I suspect it should all have been closed off.  It does look nearly finished and they have done a wonderful job on the stone work.  It is miles from anywhere though and I do wonder where the congregation comes from and where the money came from for all the repairs.

I am sitting in the airport blipping this.  So it's good bye New Zealand.  A country of heart and soul, beauty and challenge, and we have so enjoyed ourselves.

A massive thank you to all those Blippers we have met and to everyone who has been so generous with comments, hearts and stars.  Sydney tonight!