NZ.
One of the few countries that I have visited that has captured my heart. The people are friendly, the food is good and the atmosphere is relaxing. However, most importantly, the scenery is purely spectacular.
Christchurch
The most populated city of New Zealand's South Island, Christchurch was hit by a large earthquake in the years of 2010-2012. Many buildings toppled and hundreds were killed. Because of the frequency of earthquakes in the region, some buildings remain abandoned and many are still in the midst of reconstruction.
There is hope. To replace the ChristChurch Cathedral, the city built the Cardboard Cathedral. Made mostly of cardboard and wood, the Cathedral was designed by the Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, pro bono.
The Canterbury Museum, which has a voluntary entrance fee, explains the history of Christchurch and its suburbs.
greymouth
Greymouth is the largest town on the West coast region of the South Island of New Zealand. The district of Greymouth consists of a population of only 14000, which is less than 10% that of Woodlands in Singapore. It lies on the opposite side of the island with respect to Christchurch.
queenstown
By far my favourite place in New Zealand, Queenstown is a resort town in the South Island and is near the famous tourist attraction of Milford Sound. Especially in the location that I stayed in, which was near the town's scenic park, the town felt cosy and well planned. St. James Apartments is located beside the river which passes through the town. A short stroll from it is the park. Walk 5 minutes and you would get the best burger I've ever eaten in 20 countries, Fergburger.
milford sound
One of the most popular destinations in New Zealand, the Sound is not overrated and is worth a visit, despite its remote location. If one chooses to self-drive the entire way to the Sound, he or she could stop any moment to photograph or just absorb the serene scenery.
Half-time: Animals of NZ
the hobbiton
The filming location of the high-grossing movie, The Hobbit. Intended as a temporary filming location, this site has been turned into a tourist attraction. Fun fact: this location was scouted by the director of the film and the land was bought from a farmer (whose animals were used in the film). The army also helped to build the set!
The guided tour was insightful, the guides were great and there was plenty of time for photographs.
rotorua
Black sheep can spoil a trip: a few racist youths...
Other than that, Rotorua is relatively large but empty town, but with quite some places to photograph.
At this point in time, you would realise that my vocabulary is limited, or just that New Zealand's beauty is too much for it. It simply can't be described with words.
You would also have realised that other than a sole photo of Queenstown's center, you have not seen any person in my photos. Well, this country is a landscape photographer's heaven. 90% of the photos here are taken by my Zeiss 12mm lens, which is a must have for a trip to the country.
To experience NZ, you have to visit it as I would do so, again...
-The End-