Tuesday 25th April
Anzac Day. We woke to a chilly morning and a little grey. We headed into the town of Oamaru to have a look around. It was described as a little quirky town with eccentric people. Unfortunately it did not usually start until about 10.30am and was looking like t wasn’t going to start at all. The only shops open were the coffee shops. There were all types of little shops and unusual galleries. Old time bikes, boats, carts, steam punk (interesting junk art).

We first of all stopped at a children’s playground. It had all sorts of interesting play equipment including a cycling track with broken white lines, give way lines etc. It was a great idea. The trip through the old town of 18th century limestone buildings was quicker than usual as most of them were closed.

We then headed to St Patrick’s Basilica is a Catholic church designed by the prominent New Zealand architect Francis Petre and is one of his most celebrated works. It is one of the most important historic buildings of the North Otago region. The Basilica’s classical portico and three domes are an admired feature of the Oamaru townscape and the building is particularly noted for the high quality of the stone carving and fine plasterwork of its architectural features. Built entirely of Oamaru stone the exterior has weathered more than one would have expected, but inside the church glows with reflected light from the creamy stone which is virtually in its original state. The interior is bathed in abundant natural light, and with clear glass rather than stained in the high nave windows, the quality of light is enhanced.

Tonight we went to Willowbank Wildlife Park and Maori Cultural Show to end Colleen’s trip with a bit of New Zealand history, culture and wildlife. David and his mum went on a kiwi tour and met some of New Zealand’s animals up close and then Colleen and I went to the Maori Cultural show where we were welcomed into the Ko Tane tribe and shared a night of dance, learnt to use Poi Balls in a dance with the girls and watched the boys learn the Haka. It was a good night to finish up Colleen’s trip as she flies home tomorrow. It has been lovely to share this beautiful country with her. Wishing her a safe and uneventful trip home for a big rest.

Tomorrow we are also planning a quiet rest day to plan the rest of our holiday and recover a little from the last 16 days of go, go, go!