We enter the country through Auckland where arriving visitors include lots of hiking and outdoor types coming to tramp around their magnificent back country. Entry into the country is easy, just scan my own passport at an electronic kiosk and answer the couple questions that flash on the screen, smile for a facial ID then off we go. The serious business starts with questions about camping and sporting gear and any risk for biological contaminants. Very pleasant folks but determined. They washed my boots! Thankfully they didn’t just take them. Ok, next, a flight to Christchurch.
Rats, it is overcast. Cloud tops are beautiful in the brilliant morning sun but I am hoping for a preview of our home for the next few weeks. On cue, the clouds break to a view of magnificent rugged shorelines, soaring mountain ranges, and broad green valleys cut through by winding braided rivers. Fantastic.