Blog Post #8
To the South Island I go…
…only a week later than planned! The Coronavirus will have impacted every single one of us in one shape or form, to more or lesser degrees. I can safely say that I have been minimally impacts, but only relative to the rest of the world. My next contract in Dunedin has been postponed a week whilst my client responds to the emergency. To be honest this delay has worked out well, as I have been able to prepare more for the contract, spend more time with my family, and transition out of holiday mode! I also managed to complete the first module in a series of online asset management training!
Other personal effects borne from Covid-19: my 2.5 week bike-packing trip across Europe has been cancelled, as well the the Euros 2020 football championship I was going to. Safe to say my 6-week trip to Europe is cancelled…or perhaps postponed until 2021?! At the end of the day I am lucky to even have these opportunities, and whilst they may not be happening this year, they are not never happening. In these dark times, we need to seek out the positives. Now I get to spend all winter in New Zealand – take me to the mountains!!
I had a great time in Aussie. For some reason Australia has never appealed to me. Perhaps it’s related to the heat? The dangerous wildlife? I mean I can happily sleep outside in New Zealand without a care (providing the forecast is ok!), but I’d think twice about doing that in the Aussie bush. My time in Melbourne completely exceeded expectations. I’m a country boy at heart, yet the city vibes do give me thrills! There were numerous highlights, including amazing food and hospitality, a well-designed urban river that encouraged me to start running regularly again, and an awesome music festival! Last but not least, a 4-day roadtrip along the Great Ocean Road, quite the contrast from the bustling city life, which provided a sharp yet balanced experience. From stargazing and swimming at sunset, to walking with koala bears and seeing kangaroos!
I returned to New Zealand prior to the Covid-19 travel restrictions requiring 14 days of self-isolation for incoming overseas passengers. However, to be risk averse, I have in fact been self-isolating since my return. Fortunately I can work remotely in my field of work, and I have set up a work-space where I am currently based.
However I have now booked the ferry for Saturday and I will be making a long journey down the east cost of the South Island. The journey will feature a number of stops, including an overnight stay in Christchurch. I am yet to drive the route between Christchurch and Dunedin, so that is exciting in itself. I do love visiting new places. I am excited to move to a different city, and also excited to experience what it’s like living in the South Island.
I appreciate this post hasn’t been very academic or focused on flood risk management. I suppose that’s what happens when you go on holiday and contracts get delayed. Alas, I didn’t want it to be too much longer before another post. Hopefully the next one will feature more rivers, science and engineering.
Maa te waa…
