High above Christchurch

We were treated to a beautifully clear morning in the Garden City, and, as part of a work project, I was lucky enough to head up to Cattlestop Crag on the Port Hills to film some rock climbers. Pardon the pun, but it's tough at the top....

The view to the distant Southern Alps and further up the Pegasus Bay coast was stunning - the mountains topped with a bright layer of new snow following the southerly blast a couple of days ago.

The Summit Road is closed not much further beyond this point, the rockfall hazard following the earthquakes considered too dangerous for those walking and driving along the top of the hills. Just to the left of the picture the gondola terminus is abandoned; it seems the only visitors now welcome there being inspectors in flouro jerkins and the plentiful birdlife that soars amongst the rocky pinnacles.

On days like these it's a shame to see this part of the Port Hills almost abandoned - it really is Christchurch's forgotten playground. Let's hope that the ongoing remedial works allow this wonderful resource to bounce back to life.