The Wetlands, a Naked Baker, a Flying Fox and a Sunny Sumner - July 6

Kia Ora!

 Our day began as we drove through our fourth overcast and foggy morning towards Travis Wetland Natural Heritage Park, an established and protected natural lowland freshwater ecosystem which serves as an important habitat for a plethora of plant and animals species. There, we were guided through the 2km trail by the wonderfully knowledgeable Dr. Colin Meurk who pointed out a number of unique and beautiful flora and fauna that inhabited the area, as well as took turns preforming transect bird counts along the way. It was amazing to see all the progress that had been made in establishing the wetland ecosystem in a mere 15 years since its establishment.

 After our tour, we headed to a charismatic bakery called the Naked Baker for lunch and afterwards drove into New Brighton, a charming sea-side community, to enjoy the beach and a fun little zip-line, the Flying Fox. For the first time thus far in our trip, the sun emerged through the clouds and made for a beautiful afternoon. 

Once we finished up at New Brighton, we made our way to Sumner Beach where we climbed about the rocks along the shore and took in the stunning coastal views and sunny blue skies.

                At night, we headed down to the Famous Grouse for our first official rugby game – The Crusaders (Christchurch’s home team) vs. The Chiefs ­­– and celebrated as Christchurch won a closely contested game against their rival.   

- Jenna