DOCUMENT

we felt shaking – there had indeed been a 6.1 quake off the coast of Wellington. Thankfully no damage – natural disasters sure were chasing us around NZ!! The next day we explored the English inspired Christchurch. Loved the pretty wheel along the Avon River and the stunning Botanic Gardens. The Cathedral rebuild was subdued and Riverside markets were a cosmopolitan array of foodie delights. Then we were up early to board the Tranzalpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth return! Absolutely stunning journey through diverse country, the southern alps, the 8km Otira tunnel, rich farmland, Lake Moana, to the West Coast. Access, comfort, food and service couldn’t have been better! Bucket list ticked! Squeezing the most out of our last day in NZ, we visited the International Antarctic Centre to see the cute penguins and the adorable huskies! Our most dramatic adventure happened as we were due to land – a ferocious storm hit and my plane was diverted to Brisbane. QANTAS had freedommobility.co.nz 0800 864 2529 Go further, do more with a Freedom Mobility hire With the largest mobility rental fleet in NZ, and 24/7 nationwide roadside assistance, Freedom Mobility gives you that holiday feeling from the moment you turn the key. Our personalised service means you get the perfect vehicle for your needs, and a perfect experience every time. So get in touch and we’ll get you on the road. ACCESSIBLE AOTEAROA Advice for other travellers with MD PRE-BOOK must-sees in advance but leave some free time to explore BOOK accommodation in advance – at least 6 months CONFIRM accommodation by phone call AND email for pics. Reconfirm ASK for concessions and carer tickets – often free MONEY Write up budget. Keep all receipts. Get receipts emailed DOUBLE PACK if possible, take 2 of essential items eg hoist battery. already put Steve on a separate flight via Brisbane as apparently, they can’t carry 2 mobility devices on a 737 plane?! We arrived home to power outage and our giant oak tree across our driveway! 17 hrs without a pee was hectic! But WOW what an incredible Kiwi adventure. Carolyn Campbell-McLean