One of the pleasures of traveling to Antarctica is to spend some time in Christchurch, NZ on the way south. Although NZ is a wonderful place to visit, Christchurch is still recovering from 2 devastating earthquakes that hit the city in September of 2010 and February 2011. Although there are signs of recovery and progress everywhere, there is a melancholy feeling for all that was lost during those tragic events. The Botanic Garden is a place of serenity and a nice place to relax after a long plane ride from North America. It’s fun to enjoy Spring again after a long hot summer at home.