Flying along in a car on a road with switch backs, and steep drops on either side isn't exactly fun for those of us with height phobia. Neither does it prevent nausea. As usual,there really was no need of the fist clenching, the foot pumping imaginary brakes, or the sweat pouring off my forehead.
The Port Hills wind up the the ancient rim of a volcanic crater. I would suggest this is far more favourable for day hikers and cyclists than cars. And, for some who love gondola rides, those lift you up to the top of the hills.
The views were spectacular in every direction: Lyttleton Harbour with Quail Island which is supposed to be the "plug" of the volcanic crater; The crescent shaped beaches on the South Pacific filled with Sunday surfers; and the Canterbury Plains stretching from Christchurch to the faint outline of the Southern Alps. Having recently hiked on Quail Island, I wasn't too excited to learn that it was the volcanic plug. Totally unreasable of course. The views were glorious.
The early "Canterbury Pilgrims" who arrived in the four sailing ships eventually climbed their way over the hills, once covered with natural vegetation, to settle Christchurch.
Thanks to Rev. David and Anne, for this adventure, not only geologically, but extraordinarly historical.
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