Christchurch!

Three planes and about 24 hours of traveling later, we finally made it to Christchurch! Our 13 flight from LA to Auckland was surprisingly easy...Hannah and I somehow were able to sleep 9 hours and when we woke up, we only had a few hours left to enjoy breakfast, mimosas, and an amazing view into the North Island of New Zealand. 

After a quick layover in Auckland, we hopped on a flight to Christchurch where we were greeted by Rick, our amazing host for the first few days we are here.  Him and his wife Lynn were kind enough to house us and help us get adjusted before we head up to our job in Murchison later this week. When we first arrived to their house in Christchurch we got to meet the other members of their family, their two friendly dogs, Oliver and Wilma.  They were excited to see some new faces, so much so that Wilma had a nice little surprise for me when I went to go pick her up. Needless to say,  it was a very "warm" welcome.

The time difference and change of date/season is throwing us off quite a bit. It's suddenly summer again (not that we're complaining!) but it's definitely a bizarre feeling especially after the unusual snow storm we had back in the US just a few days ago. In an effort to push through our jet lag and get on NZ time, we ventured out into Christchurch today to open bank accounts, get a phone and explore the city. We definitely stuck out like a sore thumb walking around aimlessly and it was pretty funny to see some of the kids walking through the mall in their school uniforms with blazers and skirts down to their ankles. I felt like I was walking through a live scene of Summer Heights High...like d'ya know what I mean?

It's only been a few hours and it already feels like home. It's amazing how friendly the Kiwis are and how eager and willing they are to show you the ropes (Definite culture shock from the New Yorkers I'm used to back home). From the flight attendants on Air New Zealand to the sales guys at Vodafone, everyone here has made a great first impression on us. We now officially have NZ bank accounts, a NZ phone number, AND a car to use while were here. (Rick and Lynn are loaning us one of their cars so we don't have to buy one which is a huge weight off our back.) Everything has been so easy so far -- almost too easy. We're anxiously anticipating our first disaster...

Hannah with our car for the next 6 months

...here's to hoping our excessive luggage fits in our new whip!