New Zealand is all about natural beaches, wildlife and space! Sumner beach, a suburb of 
Christchurch along the East coast, has it all. Its a day out for the whole family! Ok so yes there is a beach which runs into the estuary ( i wouldn't swim in the estuary if i was you...) where plenty of water activities thrive. Learn to windsurf in the shallow water or hire a canoe or kayak and take a peaceful paddle along the shore line, passing kids with sand buckets and locals walking their dogs.
The beach is scattered with huge rocks which create their own caves and rock pools when the tide is out. I loved climbing and exploring for hours when I was a wee lass, making homes for found creatures and finding hiding places from my brothers. One particularly large rock formation is infamously named Shag Rock. I believe it has something to do with the amount of shag BIRDS that inhabit the area.
Take a drive around the shore line on the main road into Sumner and Redcliffs and admire the huge properties towering above you on hillside, overlooking the bay. If you really want to get away, continue on over the hill to the just around the bay. There is a surfers paradise beach called Tailors Mistake. I only discovered this last year and its a real gem, complete with ancient fisherman's huts built into the cliff side.
Hello, I am planning on visiting NZ during the New Year (Dec 23-Jan 2). For the first seven days I wanted to explore the nature around NZ but was not sure where to start or what to do. I am not to familiar with NZ culture or activities (aside from Rugby) and was hoping someone could clue me in. I was thinking about starting my trip in Nelson for two days (but I am not sure what kid of "hot spots" or beautiful areas are around there), then heading over to Christchurch for three days. From there i was thinking about heading over to Wellington for three days ( i hear the Lower Hut is beautiful) then ending in Auckland on the 31st to the 2nd (how can i get from Wellington to Auckland? Can i take a ferry? how long does the commute take?) Thats the plan i am contemplating, I can't wait to go. Do you have any recommendations on where I should stay?
Posted by: Aaron | August 16, 2006 at 10:25 PM
Ahh! Makes me homesick!! Cave Rock in Sumner is my most fav place in NZ! Good work Rhiannon - REPRESENT!
Posted by: Kat | August 06, 2006 at 04:50 AM