#Christchurch Botanical Gardens

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After eating lunch under a shady tree I went to check out the Dalia garden. It is still a sea of colour.

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Assorted flowers, Cantebury memorial rose gardens, Christchurch, 2020.

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M&M visit C in C

Meghan and Megan came to visit! They arrived on Tuesday around noon, so we jumped straight in to lunch! We went to a place just down the street from my flat that has been recommended to me several times called Little Poms. It was an excellent excuse to finally check it out!

Once we finished lunch, I had to finish up my work day, so I sent them on a walk in the Red Zone. Red Zones are areas that are unsafe to rebuild on post-earthquake due to the sustained damage. This particular Red Zone was previously a neighborhood and is now only empty lots. All buildings have been torn down, and cars are not allowed to drive the streets. It has become a popular walking and biking path for locals. It's my regular walking path, so I was surprised when they came back from the walk saying that it was a bit longer than they had envisioned for a post-lunch walk.

After the big travel day, we went to the Meg(h)ans AirBnb and played a few rounds of NZ Trivial Pursuit - even though they had been traveling for 24 hours, I still lost!

I had to work the rest of the week, so the Meg(h)ans had to entertain themselves the first few days. They were staying in New Brighton - a good spot for its proximity both to me and to the beach. They could walk down the street to a little coffee cart and then be straight on the beach, and I was about a 15-minute drive away. They went to the beach for a bit, and when I got out of work we drove over to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

The next day, we went to the Christchurch Night Market, which takes place every Thursday on the rooftop level of the Hornby Hub parking garage. It's a great little market with tons of international food options. We bought a few things from a few different places - I made the Meg(h)ans try barbecued pork intestine because I had had them with a friend once before and actually enjoyed them!

Here's everything we got:

Cochina (Brasil) chicken croquettes

Bao (China) steamed pork buns

Pork and intestine (Philippines) served on skewers with dipping sauce

Peach tea (Taiwan)

Pickled quail eggs (Philippines)

Mince and cheese hand pie (New Zealand)

A tasty time was had by all!

[dec0mposing]

Woodlands Bridge, Botanical Gardens. Christchurch, New Zealand. 1920s. Photograph

[albert-tsum]

The Botanic Garden in Christchurch

I am wondering which flowers Wesker likes the most

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(Travel Journal)

New Zealand 2022: Christchurch

Christchurch was so much smaller and quieter than I had expected, especially having lived in Melbourne for years. It felt very much to me like a big town than a city, resembling Ballarat or Bendigo in Australia, but with its unique charms, of course.

We visited the Tannery (Yes I've posted this spread inspired by the vibes there before, so this is a re-post), a quaint shopping area with beautiful boutiques and vintage shops. Most of the time however, we were around the Riverside Market, trying the local produce or just enjoying the vibes of the place.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens was definitely a highlight, with flowers I've never seen before, massive trees, beautiful water features and charming rose gardens. I enjoyed Christchurch Botanic Gardens more than the one in Auckland, although the weather probably played a big part! The curated experience of the two gardens were very different though, so it's probably not a fair comparison. But I'd definitely recommend all three areas to anyone visiting Christchurch.

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Christchurch Botanical Gardens.

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Diminish and Ascend in Christchurch, New Zealand

Artist David McCracken designed his Diminish and Ascend to resemble a never-ending staircase that goes straight into the clouds. And, from certain angles, it takes on that appearance. He designed the piece for an annual art show known as Sculpture by the Sea in Bondi, Australia, but after the show closed, the aluminum staircase was moved to its new home in Kiosk Lake in Christchurch Botanic Gardens in New Zealand. Calling this piece an optical illusion almost seems like an understatement. 

[clivemwilliams]

New Zealand 2022/23

22-24 December

We’ve now arrived at Lydia and Andrew’s place in Christchurch where we are spending Christmas. On Thursday Judith and I drove to Hamilton, about 1.5 hours away, where we had a great day in the excellent Botanical Gardens which, unusually, are completely free. Apart from the more traditional cottage garden, and the Egyptian gardens , there were some very unusual ones featuring a giant wheelbarrow and other garden implements and a garden on the tennis lawns!

On Friday Ellie had to go into the city so Judith and I walked into Mission Bay for a coffee. In the afternoon we flew down to Christchurch and grateful to Ellie’s friends Mark and Jackie, for a lift to the airport as roads were really busy. Lydia met us at the airport and drove us to their new home in Somerfield which is nice part of Christchurch. We met Alfie their 5 month old dachshund and then had pizzas for tea.

Saturday was action packed! First of all we drove up a long steep hill to a cafe called the Sign of the Kiwi with great views towards Governor’s bay and out to sea. We did a short walk around the summit of the hill before driving into town for a visit to a Saturday market with some great foods stalls - including one with Cornish pasties!

After lunch we went to Sumner beach where Lydia had arranged a tandem paragliding session for Judith with a friend of Andrew. Judith really enjoyed the 20 minute flight which landed back near the beach. Great photo opportunities! Ellie also had a go but lost her shoe on takeoff - typical!

In the evening we went for a Mexican meal followed by a Salvation Army Carol concert in Christchurch.

A very exciting day!

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Top Places for you to Visit in Christchurch

Christchurch is one of the largest and traditional places in New Zealand. Despite everything, it has the strongest English influences too. Noted as one of the top must-visit places in the country, you should definitely take your campervan rental Christchurch to this place. Here are some of the places that you can visit while in the city. 1.    The Botanic Gardens: It is one of the finest attractions of the city, and has been there since 1863. You simply cannot miss the beauty of flora in this garden. There are several species of insects that might pique your interest while in the gardens. It is also a great place to have picnics and enjoy some family time. You can also enjoy plant conservatories in this region. 2.    Avon River:This river that runs 8.7 miles is indeed something you cannot miss while on a trip to Christchurch. It runs through the Pacific Ocean and should top your list. It runs through the botanic gardens and hagley park and is one of the finest attractions. You may find a place to park your motorhome hire Christchurch before returning to enjoying the river. 3.   Tranzalpine Train: If you want to enjoy New Zealand and the landscapes around, there is no better way than to hop onto a train. This train starts from Christchurch, and takes you all the way to Greymouth. You will be infinitely awed by the glory of the splendors around this region. It is considered to be an iconic journey and you may not want to give it a miss. 4.    Willowbank Wildlife Reserve: If you are a wildlife person and love to see animals in their setting, you should visit this place in Christchurch. Hidden in the beautiful trees and flora, you will find some of the rarest and about to be extinct animals sharing the warmth of the outdoors with you. this is the place where several bird breeding programs are conducted to save the different species from getting extinct. 5.    Canterbury Museum: If you want to learn more about the history and culture of New Zealand, you should visit the Canterbury museum. It is a single storyed building that was created in 1870. You will find a spot for your campervan rental Christchurch. There are several artefacts that date back in history. You will also find several historical moments properly arranged in the form of the weapon, human figures and others to help understand the moments better. 6.    Gondola: You should ride the Gondola when in Christchurch. It starts at the base of the Heathcote valley and goes to Mount Cavendish. It is a 15-minute ride and totally enjoyable. You will get exciting views into the beautiful landscapes and Alps. While the time is less, it is greatly enjoyable. 7.    The Antarctic Centre: it is a tourist attraction that you must visit while in the city. It is about 15 minutes away from the central part of the city. you will see a lot of paperwork and important notes on the Antarctic region in this place. If you want to solve some mysteries about this place, you should visit the centre. You might find a space for your motorhome hire Christchurch.

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Lunch break today was beautiful come and take a minute to sit and enjoy.

[nikfiendluvr666]

Cantebury memorial rose gardens, Christchurch, 2020.

[cllnsllvn]

Between Christmas and New Years, although I tried to do my best to look for a job (and applied to god knows how many), it was all for naught. Between all my online searching and job applying, I continued to spend time outside at the Botanic Gardens.

I also spent a fair amount of time by the river at The Terrace, where I got bit by a duck! The ducks there are so used to being fed by tourists that they will come straight up to you.

During this time, I also visited my first beach in Christchurch! One nice day, I took the bus over to Sumner Beach. It's so convenient to be able to just hop on the bus and be dropped off straight at the beach! When I arrived, there were signs on the beach not to swim, as the rip currents were too strong. I walked along the beach to Scarborough Beach, which is the next one to the south. Luckily, the swim are was open there, so I was able to have a nice swim and read the book that Mary gave me before I left - Look for Me There by Luke Russert.

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📍The Botanical Gardens, Christchurch, New Zealand

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Reflective Statement Prompts

Where in the world am I?

I am living in Auckland, Tamaki Makaurau, looking at nature in different locations around the city. In places such as Symonds Street Cemetery, Parnell Rose Garden, Kauri Glen Reserve, Auckland Botanical Gardens, and Hobosnville.

What are the particular, peculiar oddities, beautiful, raw, hidden gems of your surroundings?

I am photographing a variety of trees in their natural environments, looking at their trunks, branches, roots, leaves, and surroundings. I have found it particularly interesting looking at the moss on the trees as well as the unique canopies.

Where are your favourite hangouts, haunts, sites of leisure, places of meeting or gathering?

Some of my favourite photos have come from the Symonds Street Cemetery which looked haunted and abandoned. I also loved the Parnell Rose Gardens which I found quite welcoming and peaceful. 

Are they interiors, exteriors, or both?

I have been taking all of my photographs outdoors in order to get up close and immersed in the natural environment of my subject matter.

Where do you connect with people and places?

I found that I was most connected with the places I was shooting where it was very quiet and you could hear all of the birds and insects. This is where I feel most comfortable so I feel that's why I naturally gravitated more to those environments.

What do these places look like?

The places I was shooting were all surrounded by trees and plants. I did most of my shoots around midday or during the afternoon so they were typically very bright or shaded areas. In particular I found that the cemetery looked neglected and dystopian which intrigued me as it was slightly unsettling whereas the gardens were peaceful, calming and had a sense of warmth while walking around.

How might your photographs convey a connection to them?

I wanted the photography to reflect the feelings that I was experiencing whilst actually being in the environment at the time while taking the photo but also be representative of the feelings I have felt since moving and living in Tamaki Makaurau.

What is your visual story to tell?

I wanted to capture photos that convey the different emotions that I have felt such as happiness, curiosity, anxiety, discomfort, stress, peace, and excitement, throughout this portfolio. By using something in the natural environment around me and framing it in different and unusual ways. Specifically relating to the fact that I grew up outdoors on a farm and how I have found comfort and a sense of homelessness when out in these environments.

Find a point of difference in your visual story, while also finding a genre of expression that suitsyou. How do other photographers tell a visual story? Name and describe the approaches tovisual stories that other photographers in your genre use. Include the research of other photographers. At least 6 other relevant photographers that thathave influenced your inquiry + photographic approach should be discussed on your blog.

-Keith Dotson is a nature photographer who works in black and white capturing the fine details with extreme close ups of things found in nature.

-Gavin Hipkins is an environmental photographer from New Zealand who did a project where he captured trees and branches in thick fog. Creating a hidden spooky effect.

-Holy Best is a photographer from Christchurch who did a project where she captured gardens and landscapes in the Red Zone within Christchurch depicting an eerie feeling of what remained in nature following the aftermath of it’s demolished surroundings.

-Alec Soth is an American photographer who did a project near where he grew up as a child and talked about how this project shifted his whole perspective on photography and has allowed him to have a deeper connection with people. 

-Rachel Sussman is an American photographer who did a project based on the oldest living things in the world. Photographing unbelievably old trees including an 80,000 year old tree.

Editing:

‘What kind of narratives start to emerge when certain images are placed next to each other?’

I hope that by sequencing the photos in the way that I have the viewer will follow the journey of me initially moving to Tamaki Makaurau feeling excitement mixed with nervousness and then how I became quite stressed and overwhelmed to now showing the growth where I am beginning to find a sense of home and comfort here. 

‘What types of meanings are accentuated by editing?’

‘What cultural and contextual factors are operating in these images?’

I hope that these images reflect the beauty of our environment in Tamaki Makaurau. 

‘How does editing influence these?’

‘What connotative meanings are operating within your image selection?

I think that these images depict my journey of adjusting to a new environment away from what I know and suggest that this can be challenging but rewarding.

[yafaiah-raaida-cham]

Top Tourist Attractions to Visit with Your New Zealand Visit Visa

Nestled in the south-western Pacific Ocean, New Zealand (Māori: Aotearoa) is an island nation renowned for its rich cultural legacy and stunning landscapes. New Zealand is home to more than 700 tiny islands in addition to its two main landmasses, the South Island (Te Waipounamu) and the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) which together make up a broad range of natural beauties. The country's diverse geography, which is a result of tectonic uplift and volcanic activity, is a tribute to its dynamic geological history. 

You'll make lifelong memories as you travel across New Zealand's breath-taking scenery and energetic cities. Discovering undersea treasures, sampling world-class wines in Marlborough, or taking in the expansive views from a mountain top New Zealand is a place that enthrals and inspires. Having a New Zealand visa allows you to do more than simply travel it allows you to go on a fantastic journey that will deeply inspire you to appreciate the richness and beauty of this amazing island nation.

Here are the Top Tourist Attractions to Visit with Your New Zealand Visit Visa

The adventure capital of New Zealand Queenstown is tucked away in the Southern Alps and overlooking Lake Wakatipu. Many heart-pounding activities, like skiing, skydiving, bungee jumping and river rafting, draw large crowds of visitors. The town is a must-visit location because of its breath-taking natural surroundings and energetic vibe. After an exciting day of exploring, treat yourself to a special meal at one of Queenstown's many well-known eateries, where you can sample regional fare while taking in the breath-taking scenery.

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2. Bay of Islands: 

The Bay of Islands is a stunning region made up of 144 islands. It is a haven for adventure seekers and those interested in discovering the wonders of the undersea world. Fishing, diving, and sailing are all excellent in this region, which is well-known for its pristine seas and rich marine life. The Bay of Islands is a captivating destination that has something to offer every kind of traveller because of its tranquil beauty and the chance to find hidden beaches and ancient monuments.

3. Auckland: 

The largest city in New Zealand Auckland is a bustling center of natural beauty, culture and history. At the famous Auckland Museum, visitors can learn about the rich history of the city, and from the Sky Tower they can take in expansive vistas. A must-see site is One Tree Hill, a volcanic mountain with expansive views. Auckland is ideally located to begin exploring the varied landscapes of New Zealand, as it is encircled by amazing natural treasures such as lush forests, stunning beaches, and volcanic islands in addition to its metropolitan attractions.

4. Canterbury and the West Coast:

  Located away from the usual tourist routes, Canterbury and the West Coast provide a tranquil and distinctive getaway into the untamed landscape of New Zealand. Wander through the West Coast's lush rainforests, go on horseback rides, and see dazzling glaciers in this location. The "Garden City," Christchurch, is renowned for its exquisite parks and gardens while the neighbouring regions offer breath-taking natural settings ideal for outdoor activities like trekking.

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Lauded as the coolest little capital Wellington captivates tourists with a unique combination of history culture, and natural beauty. The city's well-known attractions include the Weta Cave, where movie magic comes to life Zealandia, a ground-breaking urban eco-sanctuary, and the cable car, which provides breath-taking views of the city. A great place to get away from the bustle of the city is the Botanic Garden, which is another must-see location in Wellington with its colourful flower displays and serene walking paths.

6. Nelson and Marlborough: 

These two areas are well-known for their abundance of marine life and stunning scenery. This region's seaside town of Kaikoura is especially well-known for its whale-watching excursions, which allow guests to see magnificent marine life in its native environment. The Wairau Valley, the biggest vineyard in New Zealand and a renowned wine-producing area, is also located in Marlborough. One of New Zealand's most picturesque areas, the Marlborough Sounds, may be seen first-hand by bicycle, sea kayak or foot thanks to their complex system of valleys submerged by the water.

Conclusion:

A New Zealand visa allows you to explore the country and access a world of varied experiences such as the serene beauty of the Bay of Islands and the exhilarating thrills of Queenstown. Whether it is the exciting metropolitan life of Wellington, the tranquil landscapes of Canterbury and the West Coast, or the rich cultural tapestry of Auckland, every site in this magnificent country has something special to offer. With its unique combination of outdoor pursuits, natural wonders, and cultural sites New Zealand guarantees that any visitor will find something to pique their interest and spirit of adventure.

Read More: 

10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a New Zealand Tourist Visa