March 1, 2016. Devastated Christchurch

CAMPGROUND:  2nd night at Amber Kiwi

LOCATION:  Christchurch, South Island, New Zealand on central east coast

WEATHER:  Chilly and cloudy. Highs in 50s

We visited the International Antaractic Center.  Christchurch is the closest supply station to the Antarctic, so there is a lot of interest in that continent here.  After watching the miniature penguin feeding, we went to the Antarctic wind experience.  We dressed in galoshes and heavy jackets and entered a space that looked like the South Pole.  Then, a storm was assimilated with fierce winds.  We watched the wind chill drop on a temperature gauge.  It was pretty authentic, but still didn't match downtown Rochester winds in the winter!

There were several interesting exhibits on the explorers and scientific research there.

Then, on to downtown, or should say, what is left of it.  It is so sad.  These boarded up buildings are everywhere.

We learned that 80% of the downtown buildings have been demolished or are slated for demolition.  The iconic church is propped up while they decide what to do with it...

 

We went to a very interesting exhibit called Quake City about the 2011 earthquake.  We listened to people's stories and looked at pictures of the destruction.  I had been thinking that they haven't done much recovery and rebuilding in these 5 years, until I saw what downtown looked like in February, 2011.

They are very optimistic and are building like crazy. New construction like this  is everywhere.

 

To bridge the gap until their replacements have been built, shops and cafés have created  a "container city".  Great idea, and full of people.

I really hope they are successful in their re-creation of Christchurch.  Personally, I don't know if I would risk rebuilding.  Just today, there have been 12 small earquakes here.  

DINNER:  Ramen using onion, broccoli and tuna.  Last dinner in New Zealand, but not very fancy!