Christchurch to Queenstown 3/12/11-5/12/11

We've decided to write this 1st blog together and we'll probably then add to it individually over the next 6 months. It won't be difficult to work out who's posted what!
So after sitting on Heathrow runway for 3 hours, we ended up missing our connection in Dubai but somehow managed to still arrive into Christchurch, NZ, as scheduled. 28 hours in all and 4 plane meals later!
Christchurch was a bit of a strange place due to the earthquake in February. We weren't aware that the city was still in the aftermath and it was only when a soldier stopped us from walking down the next road that we realised that there are still large no-go areas in the centre. The soldier was friendly enough and asked us where we were from. 'Bournemouth in England' we replied. 'I know that town' he said, 'They're a shitty second division team on Fifa'!
So we spent 2 nights in Christchurch which was enough for us. It was a good place to visit though as it's very similar to back home and a good place to chill out after all the travelling. A very American-like town, as is much of NZ from what we've seen so far.
Today we had a 8 hour coach journey through some amazing scenery to Queenstown. It's very similar to a French ski resort with views across lakes and mountains. We're in a 3 bed dorm in this hostel and waiting to meet our new roomie for the night! Something we haven't experienced yet and will need to get used to after the luxury of having our own room for the 1st 2 nights to help ease ourselves in gently!
We're going to be here for the next 3 days. Queenstown is known for being NZ's most action packed town for adreniline junkies, so the next few days should be a bit more lively!
We'll update again soon with some photos so watch this space!!
p.s We will definitely be blogging individually from now on as we cannot agree on what to write!!
Jenna & James x