On Friday and Saturday I went to Christchurch, which is the big urban center of Canterbury. It really isn't that big, however, and has a very welcoming "classic" feel. I'd like to say it's European, but my never having been to Europe prohibits me from doing so through lack of genuine comparison. Christchurch is about a 55-minute bus ride from Lincoln U, but that is due to the many stops and heavy traffic. On Friday, I came into Christchurch to explore the city and also get a wrist watch (without my cell phone I never know what time it is). The first stop was Cathedral Square, where the Christchurch Cathedral stands and is surrounded by a large paved courtyard, which is used for merchant space and entertainment. The courtyard was packed with people, but had a very laid back feel. After that, I went searching for a simple wrist watch. It was harder than you think, as most of the stores near Cathedral Square were brand-name fashion stores, thus the watches there were well out of my price range. I eventually found a place (A jewelry store, of all things) and got a simple Casio. I was happy to go with a dependable brand name. At that point, I had done a lot of walking and was ready for lunch. Lo' and Behold! Right across the street was a place called Burgers and Beers, Inc. The place could be described as having a "Classic horror film" theme. See the pictures. Anyway, it was a real nice place to relax and watch the city operate. As one would assume, I had a burger and a beer (both delicious).
Saturday I went into Christchurch searching for an automobile. More on that later. Today has been great. I woke up, ate breakfast, went to the gym, showered, then went to the supermarket for a mid-afternoon snack. It's a 15-20 minute walk, so I put sunscreen on my face and neck which got some good sun yesterday. At the supermarket, I bought a few fresh, ripe and locally grown peaches (That's right, they are in season right now) and some roasted chicken that had been picked off the bone already. On the walk back, I took my shirt off and exposed my whiteness to the world. It was awesome. And yes, the peaches were delicious.
Tomorrow is the first day of classes. I'm really excited to see what it's going to be like. Also, I have no classes on Wednesday (I didn't plan on it, but my schedule worked out that way), so I think I'm going to head towards the coast. Swimming at the beach in February! Imagine that.
You lucky dog!!! Your trip looks awesome and Christchurch looks like an awesome city to skate. Although it looks a little crowded in some pics, it looks like the pavement is really smooth. I bet you think its weird for me to analyze the ground in the pics. I just couldn't help it. Have you seen any people skating? Do people prefer to travel by cars or bikes in Christchurch? Is public transportation more popular in NZ than the US? I am interested. Stay having fun out there and good luck in classes. Later GGGAAAMMMEEESSS
ReplyDeleteYoooo Jon,
ReplyDeleteI forgot to tell you that when I was in Christchurch yesterday I walked by a sick skatepark that had some kind of competition going on. I think it was just a local dj/skater bro and the contestants were local kids (various ages), but it was pretty cool. I saw some dope tricks. The place was packed with skaters tho. There are some bikers, but mad people walk or use public transportation. There were a lot of cars tho, so its probably not that much different from US.
James,
ReplyDeleteThats wicked! If you are ever in Christchurch and see a skate shop, could you stop in for me? Local events like that are typically put on by shops in the area. So if you ever wanted to check out an event like that again you could ask the guys working and they will let you know. The point of stopping in the shop would be to inquire if the shop has a website. Lots of times they do, and the websites often display local tallent and skate spots in and around the area. I would really like to see the style of skating that goes on in NZ, and specifically Christchurch. A lot of times people assume skating has a universial style, but in reality the style is formed by the terrian people are skating. Skate style is formed through enviornment and culture, much like a society. To be more specific, the types of tricks people do depend on what structures are built around them, the art associated with skating is influenced by the latter and the culture of the natives (Kiwi's in this case). Culture often affects how skating is filmed as well. The more you observe the sport, the more you begin to appreciate the originallity and diversity skateboarding has to offer. It is fascinating really, the way a human manipulates an object (i.e. skatebaord) is reliant upon the objects and people around them. Anyways, enough of my rant hahaha, dont go out of your way for me, if you see anything let me know. Keep exploring!!!
-Jon
Hey James! Jon gave me the link to your blog, can't wait to read about your adventures and see pictures! Have a blast, miss you!
ReplyDeleteSammie
Mitsubishi, fun ride!!! Even better the vinyards....sample all the good wines and let us know your favorites so we can try them. Don't forget your sunblock!!!! Molly's friend Emma went to New Zealand, I think you know her!!More pix please.
ReplyDeleteJames, looks like your having the time of your life!! I hope it only keeps getting better!! Love and miss you, Dad
ReplyDelete