Here are a few additional photos of the devastation in Christchurch. The worst of the two earthquakes was two years ago, but many buildings are still waiting to be torn down or in the process of being destroyed. The ones that have been leveled have not been rebuilt and a big area in the center of the city is still fenced off and called "The Red Zone". 

The Cathedral - the spire and most of the tower were completely destroyed during the quake. They are now trying to save a few parts while demolishing the building

As close as we could get to the Red Zone

Devastation

Reminds me of the spray painted X's on buildings and houses in New Orleans post Katrina

And here are a couple of pictures of our wonderful accommodation for the week. The mirror sure makes the room look bigger, but it doesn't provide extra storage space... We had to put the chair on top of the desk in order to get our suitcases inside...

Mimmi enjoying the evening sun on a bench outside our room