Earthquake Tour

Had friends visiting from Auckland today, as usual we did an earthquake tour, they and their kids were keen.

Did the usual circuit, landform damage (Sumner/Redcliffs), the red zone (Bexley) and then into the central city. Personally, it's fascinating to see the transition and it was interesting to see our guest reactions. It went along the lines "I didn't realise it was so bad ...". Yep, TV doesn't give you that immersive experience, nor communicate scale.

It was also really interesting to see their kids reaction, pre and early teens, really understood and especially the human side. Lots of questions and as their Dad said, he really wanted them to see it so they can understand what a natural disaster is like and the impacts. And this is 2 years on! I couldn't agree more, I think every kiwi should come to Christchurch and see what's happened, and what is now happening. The rebuild.

Slow as it is, and in fact it's still full scale demolition in the central city, it's occurring, if ever so little. But there are definitely bright spots, such as the RE:Start mall. And if you haven't been into the central city in the last few weeks, a lot more is open now fro viewing and man, it's like a war zone, that you can access. Super interesting, but to be honest, bomb the lot and get started again ASAP I reckon!

Back for a lovely lunch and catch up, then they went on their way. Skiing they have down for. Maybe, if the weather cooperates. Not looking too flash right now.

Great but as usual sobering day. We've got a long way to go, but like spring, the buds of growth are showing.

Best seen in large

Oh yep, I squeezed a bike ride in as well. One loop up the Port Hills. Was going to do 2 loops, but I had a rack issue, had to come home for repairs. Good to learn these things now, rather than in the back country!