The organist librarian

Christchurch. 1 hour flight from Auckland clear views there but rain on arrival. Malcolm met us and we recognised many roads on the way to their lovely home. Liz went to the concert dress rehearsal but I slept. Ursula, Emily and Bernard were all on great form. Ursula's paintings really make the house. We laughed at The secret life of Walter Mitty on their huge screen. N Z beat Australia in the rugby. Slept well. Sunday to mass at St Peter Beckenham.went there 2 years ago. Music group did well Haugen, Gather us in, Farell, Christ be our light, Overhead projector Mass setting easy to sing. Old words for Gloria. All not many. Bishop Paul Martin who is very tall gave an excellent homily on divisions in families and suffering. He wants to close churches and cathedral and rebuild elsewhere not popular. Brunch then to The Piano for Canterbury Philharmonia concert which was very good. Verdi, Mussorgsky, Babar and SaintSaens. Mozart Sinfonia concertante. Malcolm played oboe and is chair...

A nice drive up the coast and a stop at the Moeraki boulders. Omaru was fun with its restored Victorian buildings and people in Victorian costume riding penny farthings and parading about and dancing to the piano. Found a bicycle collection and a bindery. Had a coffee and macaroon. Lovely lakes and dam with water flowing down - very impressive. Stopped for lunch and reading Dostoevsky Crime and punishment. Splendid hotel at Mount Cook and mountain very clear so we were lucky. A walk with a Nepalese guude to memorial to climbers and over swing bridge. Great buffet. Woke to snow on the mountains and fantastic views. Our last day Sunday travelled to Hanmer Springs past Christchurch airport with stops at Salmon world and Geraldine. Went to the hot springs and really enjoyed. Very nice suite at Hermitage. Rising at 2 a.m. to get to airport!