Spring has well and truly sprung here in Christchurch. The sky is blue, the sun is shining... and everywhere I turn at the moment, there are more stunning flowers blossoming! I can't even remember the last time it rained here.
The best place to go for a colourful flower overload is the Botanic Gardens, which are rife with beautiful blooms; some are familiar and some a little peculiar. It is a real difference from the last time I was here in June, when it was the middle of winter and the gardens were bare. It's a good job that you get several hours of free parking here, as it's easy to while away the time walking through the beautiful New Zealand flower gardens and the rose garden - although we are still waiting for those gorgeous roses to bloom.
The Botanic Gardens are located within Hagley Park, and it's just a short walk across the sports grounds to this epic grove of cherry blossom trees. The blossoms have all gone now, but for about a week it was one of the most popular walks in central Christchurch! And can you blame us?! Look at how beautiful it is...
And if you need a little refreshment while you're wandering around the Botanic Gardens, taking in the beautiful spring colours, stop at the Ilex Cafe for a coffee and a cake, or some lunch. Or even a glass of wine! The cafe is perfectly located in the gardens, with glass walls and an outdoor space so you can ensure great views of the park around you.