Around the World in 8000 days: Christchurch

Sunday, August 28, 2016

Christchurch - Arthur's Pass

Arthur's Pass trip

The friends that we were staying with in Christchurch left us to amuse ourselves during the weekdays as they had to work, but at the weekend, they took us out to Arthur's Pass, which is the main crossing point over the Southern Alps from one side of the island to the other.

Castle Hill, Arthur's Pass trip

On the way out, we stopped for elevenses at the Sheffield Pie Shop, which is a well known place to get an excellent pie It was certainly very tasty, so I would recommend it if you're passing by.

Don't worry if there is no space to park out in front, go round the back and you will find a car park. Just don't expect to get a seat when it is busy (most of the time).

Castle Hill, Arthur's Pass trip

Well fed, we carried on until we reached our first stop off at the lovely Castle Hill. Easily reached just off the main road, this is a collection of limestone rock formations that are interesting in themselves, but made better by the backdrop of snowy mountains

Castle Hill, Arthur's Pass trip

It amused us to see people walking along with huge great mats on their backs, presumably in case they fall when climbing.

Lake Pearson, Arthur's Pass trip

A little further along, we paused for a while to see the view over Lake Pearson.

Arthur's Pass village

From here, the road climbed steadily upwards, as we worked our way towards the 900m high pass. At this time of year, it is a simple drive, but in the winter, snow chains are a must and the road can be closed entirely. We stopped off at the Arthur's Pass village for a drink and snack, and to watch the kea, large alpine parrots that can be quite comical in their behaviour.

Otira lookout, Arthur's Pass

From the village, we carried on just a little further to the Otira viaduct lookout, to see the old and new bridges that forms the crossing point in the mountains. Part of the reason for coming here is to see if we can spot some more kea, in the more natural habitat than those in the village.

Otira lookout, Arthur's Pass

Unfortunately there was no chance of that, as some group had decided to have a prayer service of some kind there, and were busy singing, chanting and waving huge great flags around.

On the way back, we just about resisted the urge to stop for another pie, but we did succumb to an ice cream.