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Friday, January 18, 2019

Cruising North up New Zealand's South Island

DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND
After two days at sea crossing the Tasman Sea to New Zealand, we spotted the lighthouse at the head of the inlet into Otago Harbor in Port Chalmers. The Orion docked at Port Chalmers, about 15 miles from Dunedin, at 9 am.
 
Overston House
We took the optional "Great Houses of Dunedin" tour. The first stop was a guided tour of the Olverston House. This 35-room Edwardian mansion, built in 1904, is filled with treasures from around the world.
 
Larnach Castle
We also visited Larnach Castle, built in 1871. This is New Zealand's only castle. Before our tour started, we were served an afternoon tea and delicious scones in the castle's ballroom.
Tea and Scones in the Ballroom
 
View from the Castle Tower
Central Staircase
Looking up
Formal Gardens where we enjoyed listening to a bellbird.
 
Dunedin Railway Station
This Renaissance revival railway station was built in 1906.
The colorful inside was beautiful.
 
After our tour ended we walked around Dunedin's Octagon and then took the Viking shuttle back to the ship.
 
Municipal Chambers
 
St. Paul Anglican Cathedral
Since it was Christmas Eve, the organist was practicing for the 6 pm service.
 
CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND
Christmas Day we docked at Lyttelton, about 10 miles from Christchurch. We had a 12:30 Christchurch and Mona Vale Gardens tour. Damage from the 2011 earthquake that destroyed most of the city, was still visible.
Monument on Hill Above Pier
 
Gatehouse at the Mona Vale Gardens
The damaged Christchurch Cathedral is awaiting restoration
The Cardboard Cathedral, a transitional cathedral, is just blocks away from the damaged Christchurch Cathedral.
Christchurch Art Gallery
Modern Art Atop the Gallery

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