Christchurch NZ Retreat - Feb 25-27

[Lauren]

I will start a list here of those coming.
We will probably need to limit numbers to 10 - 12 for this event

Cost will be approximately $150 or less for a shared room.
payment for the room portion will need to be paid up front ( date of payment and final amount to be advised)
On top of this there will be food costs and transport costs.
The food costs will be discussed later but we will probably pool money to pay for food for breakfast/ lunch in the venue and eat out /takeaways for dinner.

If you want a room to yourself the cost will be double for the room

Please indicate below if you want to join us. ( I will add your name to the list )

1.Lauren.
2.Jennifer ( littlekiwi)
3.Jo (Spotty) ( own room preferably)
4.Fiona ( Honeymoon)
5.Bett ( Chardonnay)
6.Sharon ( thecharmed01)
7.JanP
8.Fay ( Mum2riley)
9. Erica :)
10.
11.
12.

[littlekiwi]

I am definitely in for that weekend but wont be able to pay for a week or two yet.

[Lauren]

Wont be asking for money for a little while yet Jennifer so dont worry

[littlekiwi]

thanks, I am hoping a huge portion of my weekend will be paid with backpay from a new benefit I am waiting for with WINZ but considering I am still waiting and I applied in July I don't hold out a lot of hope.

I just have to figure out some financial things for the rest of the long weekend as I am thinking it could start to add up to around $600 if I don't keep it under check

[littlekiwi]

roughly what time would the retreat finish on the sunday - im thinking if i can find a cheaper earlier flight than what i have so far i may book that as i am using public transport to get home (2 buses with a half hour wait at manukau mcdonalds)

[Lauren]

You can leave when you like Jennifer - - we will need to check out at 11 probably .

[littlekiwi]

You can leave when you like Jennifer - - we will need to check out at 11 probably .

thanks, I think I prefer the 11.50am departure compared to 6.55pm departure that I was originally planning especially considering its $30 cheaper too.

[spotty]

I am definitely still interested :)
If there is a spare room I can have to myself, I would like to bag it.
Age before Beauty, right?

Any hope we might get over the Port Hills? Never been that way.

[honeymoon]

I'm in.

[spotty]

YAY for Fiona! :yahoo:

[littlekiwi]

yay getting excited now - will probably book flights soon before they go up too much more in price because my personal limit is around $200 and they are sitting at $164 now

[Lauren]

I am definitely still interested :)
If there is a spare room I can have to myself, I would like to bag it.
Age before Beauty, right?

Any hope we might get over the Port Hills? Never been that way.

Its sure lovely over there but not likely to get there this time I fear - this venue is in Brighton.

[spotty]

Do you envisage a photo walk?

[Lauren]

Yes - but walk being the operative word !!- hopefully somewhere we can get to by bus ( ie into the city) or locally to the venue... - somewhere reasonably easy to access anyway.

[littlekiwi]

sounds interesting - i will have done a little bit of sightseeing by the time I join you all as I will be coming into Christchurch at 10.20am on Thursday morning. Currently have no real plans apart from meeting my friend for lunch on either Thursday or Friday.

A couple of questions though - what time do you think we will be meeting at the apartment on Friday?

Would anyone mind if I left the apartment around 10am on the Sunday to get back to the airport by bus ? It is the cheapest to fly back around lunchtime. If it is a big inconvenience I will fly back later in the afternoon.

[Lauren]

check in probably wont be till 2 - hopefully we can leave our bags there and do the photo walk before that - thinking sometime around lunchtime might be a good meeting time.. - maybe we can combine a lunch and a photo walk

[spotty]

Cathedral to Motel is bus route 60 and takes 25 minutes so I think we will not be dropping luggage before Walk in city... :think:

We could leave luggage in a locker at the Exchange and

:D Use the free shuttle around the Inner City

:D Or ride the Heritage Tram - hop on & off at any of the 11 stops -
the ticket is $17 includes commentary

:D Or take a bus out to Lyttleton Harbour for $3.20 each way [or buy a day pass for $4.60 which covers return fare]

:D Or $3.20 each way to Gondola [4 seaters] which costs $25 return - Lunch and VIEWS

:D Or we could photowalk 1.5Km down the beach to New Brighton and the PIER (better at sunrise tho'.)

Airport to City, route 10, takes at least 23 minutes, costs $7.50

:yippee:
:party:

[Lauren]

I'll organize a photowalk closer to the time. Right now I just need numbers.

[littlekiwi]

It doesn't look like I will be joining you on the photo walk as Fridays suit my friend better for seeing me - I told her just see what you can do for meeting me but I don't expect you to take time off from work just to see me.

[Lauren]

Right now we only have 6- 7 - we probably need another1-2 minimum to confirm this - there are some possibles but I need at least 8 definites

[littlekiwi]

Was the thecharmed01 (Sharyn) quite interested in the other thread?

[thecharmed01]

yes, I'm a definite, but I didn't see this thread LOL

[thecharmed01]

Also, I might be bringing a friend with me who's not on DSP (yet) but just got photoshop and is getting into digi-scrap!

[mum2riley]

You can put me down as a definite too! :)

[thecharmed01]

YAY!!!! I bags a room with Fay! LOL

[littlekiwi]

how are numbers looking now? just wondering if when i am back at work on monday i should go in early and book my flights before they get out of my price range.

just got the good news that my benefit including backpay has been approved and in 10 days I will be getting both Photoshop CS4 & Windows 7 - life can't be much better right now.

[Lauren]

I cant confirm the accommodation yet sorry. I do need at least one more definite

[littlekiwi]

ok I will wait til the following week to book it then - the place I am going is in Newmarket so I really don't want to have to make special trips in just to book flights

[littlekiwi]

You can put me down as a definite too! :)

YAY!!!! I bags a room with Fay! LOL

Looks like Fay is a definite rooming in with Sharon

[mum2riley]

Yep, put me on the list please :)

[littlekiwi]

things have taken a bit of a change as I have resigned from work last night so I just want to confirm that the retreat is going ahead before I put through a transfer of money onto my prepaid visa for the flights.

[Lauren]

yes all things going well it is but as i said i require at least one more to sign up - sorry i cant be more definite than that .

[littlekiwi]

ok i'll keep waiting then even though I don't want to spend too much more on airfares than what is listed for the times i want to travel

[spotty]

Lauren, is there any reason why you have not added mum2riley to your list?
See comment #30

[littlekiwi]

I was thinking that too Jo :)

[thecharmed01]

Lauren, is there any reason why you have not added mum2riley to your list?
See comment #30

Lauren, Fay is a definate!!!!! We are going to share a room!

[Lauren]

Oh good - I thought i had added her - no problem - Its on my list to phone the venue tomorrow and book - at this point will be 2 apartments - if anyone else signs up we may have to get a third.
I just hope it stops shaking down there before february

[Lauren]

Ok i just got another email back from the venue - I thought that they had 3 brm apartments but it appears they dont - they only have 2 brm apartments . this will increase the cost.
Im looking at alternatives right now - and will get back to you.

[thecharmed01]

Sounds good Lauren!

[littlekiwi]

just so you know I would possibly have to bow out if accommodation goes above $200, I really don't want to but I have had to resign from my job 4 months early due to health issues.It was either I leave under my terms or I get pushed and considering I want a good reference for school next year from them you understand why I chose to go.

[Lauren]

Ok a quick look via google and it still seems like the best bet - there are alternatives - and alternatives in the city too but they will cost more
with 8 of us we would need 2 apartments and there would be no chance of own room if we can get more to sign up there can be a little more flexibility for having your own room
It will still be well within the 150 each with 8 in 2 apartments -
If we spread out to 3 apartments the cost rises with just 8 of us but we can accomodate those who want their own room
It still appears to be the best location for us because it suits most of our needs - includes internet etc....

The only viable alternative i could find in a quick google was Cashel Apartments in the city - cost would be approx $120 with no one having their own room - the cost would go up quite a bit if we took on an extra apartment and didnt fill it with people.
( also I cant find any information regarding internet and this rate would require payment up front) - so Im going to go ahead and ask the Beachlife to pencil us in.

[thecharmed01]

When do you need the deposit for Lauren?
I'm happy with this! I think that's reasonable and like I said, I'm happy to bunk in with Fay!

[Lauren]

I waiting to hear back from the venue - will let you know as soon as i know anything

[littlekiwi]

sounds good to me too

[Lauren]

Whatever the price is for a shared room it will be twice that for a single room .

[littlekiwi]

ok then I will have to share - can't afford to do single room if that's the case. I am really pushing it financially to be able to do this holiday/retreat but as it is the last holiday I know I am going to have for a few years while studying I am persevering with putting away money for it.

[Lauren]

Ok i have confirmation they are holding 2 rooms for us and they do have a third room at the moment should we need it.
I will need a deposit of $75 each ( non refundable) by October 30 to secure the booking.
The balance can wait till next year.
I will send out pms to all those who have indicated they are interested tonight or early tomorromw with details.

[littlekiwi]

ok, if you don't mind waiting til next Wednesday I will certainly pay it then. I just looked on Air NZ website a couple of minutes ago and discovered the fares that over the last couple of days were $164 or $175 are now $142 so I kind of want to take advantage of that fact now before they go back up to the heights of $103 one way.

[Erica]

I'm in :) Adding myself now...

[Lauren]

Oh good Erica - in that case we will get the extra apartment and spread ourselves out a bit more. We may well have a couple more sign up later ( Thinking especially of Cathiemarie who is thinking of coming out again)-

[littlekiwi]

yay Erica!!

[thecharmed01]

I can pop it through next week Lauren if that's ok?

[Lauren]

yes by the end of next week is fine

[thecharmed01]

Excellent!

[bendipez]

Let's just for a moment pretend I'm coming......
It's cheaper for me to do a multi-city so any ideas ???

[Lauren]

Let's just for a moment pretend I'm coming......
It's cheaper for me to do a multi-city so any ideas ???

Youd definitely want to go to queenstown - that would be my first pick of places to go to - flying in there is darned awesome too. ( you fly in through the hills for ages)

[Lauren]

Another great place to go to in feb would be the bay of islands ( thats north of auckland)

[thecharmed01]

Let's just for a moment pretend I'm coming......
It's cheaper for me to do a multi-city so any ideas ???

Come to Welly and stay with me !

[littlekiwi]

Come to Welly and stay with me !

& make sure you see Te Papa if you do go to Wellington - its awesome

[bendipez]

Come to Welly and stay with me !
That was part of my plan....lololol...

[thecharmed01]

That was part of my plan....lololol...

hehe YAY!!!!
Always room for you here!
I live right in town too!

[spotty]

Glad you are booking the extra apartment so you can count me as two - no witty remarks thank you :lol:
I am also looking at going to Christchurch a day or two early - may never get there again and there is so much to see... :yippee:

[Lauren]

FYI airfares to christchurch from auckland are on sale today for $59- and $49 from wellington

[littlekiwi]

FYI airfares to christchurch from auckland are on sale today for $59- and $49 from wellington

great im booking today then

[Lauren]

should have mentioned thats online http://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/superlow-domestic-fares

[Lauren]

oh and i will have pms sent out today with details re payments, first and second payment dates and amounts -.
We will be including a cost for breakfasts saturday and sunday /lunch on Saturday and snacks which will be provided.
Lunch Friday, and dinners will be in addition to this cost and at your expense . ( ie we havent decided what we are doing yet!)

[Lauren]

Im all booked.

[Erica]

:tup: I'm booked too :D

[littlekiwi]

What times are we all flying down & back?

[thecharmed01]

So we should be flying down Friday and out Sunday night, is this correct?

[littlekiwi]

So we should be flying down Friday and out Sunday night, is this correct?

I'm flying down Friday morning and flying back Sunday afternoon as I think we have to be out of the apartment around 11

I'm looking at 9am NZ0509
and for flying back I am looking at 1.30pm NZ0524

will be booking these as soon as the transfer has gone through today

[thecharmed01]

I'm flying down Friday morning and flying back Sunday afternoon as I think we have to be out of the apartment around 11

I'm looking at 9am NZ0509
and for flying back I am looking at 1.30pm NZ0524

will be booking these as soon as the transfer has gone through today

What's the plan for Sunday though? As at the Auckland one recently, we barely finished by 5pm sunday!

[littlekiwi]

I'm not sure but I was told by Lauren that we would need to be out of the apartment by 11 or so and to book flights for whenever as initially I had planned to book a way later flight because it was cheaper

[thecharmed01]

All good, I just booked for the 8.45am flight Friday and the 2pm flight out on Sunday....can't beat $98 return :P

[Lauren]

yes we will need to check out at 11 so really the retreat itself will run from mid afternoon friday to mid morning sunday - after that its up to you !!-
I would try and fly in around lunchtime friday and out after lunch sunday

[thecharmed01]

Are we scrapping?

[Lauren]

Are we scrapping?

for sure

[littlekiwi]

Are we scrapping?

I intend to but whether it happens well.............

[littlekiwi]

I'm all booked on Air NZ too now

[JanP]

How did I miss this thread??? :lol: I'll have to catch up at the weekend. We're off early tomorrow on a steam train trip to Gisborne - back on Friday! Hope to get lots of photos!

[Erica]

Have fun Jan :)

[spotty]

Jan I was wondering about you last night. What fun to ride with a real steam train! I am going down to Christchurch early so I can ride rhe Trans Alpine and, of course, take lots of photos.


Stop Press at Travel Centre: Following today’s aftershock, Riccarton Mall is currently closed. For Christchurch travel updates, please contact your Travel Consultant on 0800 24 35 44. All other Christchurch stores are open aside from Riccarton Road which is trading out of Eastgate....

[thecharmed01]

spotty, have you been on the steam train out in Waiuku?

I grew up on a farm out there and we used to ride the steam train as kids all the time!!!!
Awesome fun!

[spotty]

Sharon, I had completely forgotten about that one - will check it out. TY! :yippee:

EDIT: I am apologising to thecharmed01 for mis-spelling her name. Thank You, Sharyn :doh:

[Cathiemarie]

Look what I just bought

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/5586/Auckland-to-Christchurch.jpg

[littlekiwi]

Yay Cathiemarie!!!!

[Lauren]

Look what I just bought

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/5586/Auckland-to-Christchurch.jpg

Yay

[Lauren]

Stop Press at Travel Centre: Following today’s aftershock, Riccarton Mall is currently closed. For Christchurch travel updates, please contact your Travel Consultant on 0800 24 35 44 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting**************0800 24 35 44******end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting**************0800 24 35 44******end_of_the_skype_highlighting. All other Christchurch stores are open aside from Riccarton Road which is trading out of Eastgate....

Those christchurch girls need to stop jumping around !!

[thecharmed01]

YAY Cathie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Erica]

that's great news Cathie :tup::tup:

[honeymoon]

Woo Hoo Cathie... hope you've got the other part of that to get you to NZ too.

As for jumping around.... we don't get out of our seats/beds for anything that starts with a 4.

So looking forward to you all coming south.

[honeymoon]

Some of my students who live in Christchurch want to know can they come and play without living in?

[thecharmed01]

Make them join DSP Honeymoon!!!!!!

[timelord]

Some of us already do! I would love to do this retreat BUT this is the one weekend of the year where my husband gets dibs... as it is the Sound of Thunder motorbike racing weekend (which is the highlight of his year... sigh) and I will be child minder/pit crew! Would be great if I could join you for some of it though

[thecharmed01]

Some of us already do! I would love to do this retreat BUT this is the one weekend of the year where my husband gets dibs... as it is the Sound of Thunder motorbike racing weekend (which is the highlight of his year... sigh) and I will be child minder/pit crew! Would be great if I could join you for some of it though

Wahoooo! Welcome aboard!

I'm sure Lauren must be able to sort out a 'day pass fee' for you ladies!
That way you guys don't have to fork out for accommodation or meals like breakfast, but can be included in lunch and stuff!
Would be neat if she can!

[Lauren]

Some of my students who live in Christchurch want to know can they come and play without living in?

The only issue I have is we will be tight on space as it is with all of us in one apartment for our scrapping.

[thecharmed01]

Do the apt's have anything like a conference room?

[Lauren]

No sadly not . That's why I limited the numbers . I'd love to say the more the merrier but I'm not sure it would be wise .

[thecharmed01]

awww... if the weathers good, i wonder if their WIFI reaches the pool...? LOL

[Lauren]

Lol I don't think they have a pool! The pool in the pic I think is at QE2 park!

[thecharmed01]

well that's misleading :(

[littlekiwi]

I've just made the full payment to your account Lauren with the name Jennifer M as the reference

[Lauren]

Thanks Jennifer

[spotty]

Yeeha! I've booked my flights.
Coming home on the Monday so I can make the most of the journey. :yes:

[JanP]

Woohoo Cathie! I'd better get my act together! I said I was a definate if you were coming :D

[JanP]

Just wondering - when is everyone flying in? Is it on the 25th? And going home on the 27th?

[JanP]

I mean what times are people flying in? It would be nice to share travel to the apartments. :D

[littlekiwi]

I'm flying down Friday morning and flying back Sunday afternoon as I think we have to be out of the apartment around 11

I'm looking at 9am arriving in Christchurch 10.20am NZ0509
and for flying back I am looking at 1.30pm arriving in Auckland 2.50pm NZ0524

I'm certainly keen on sharing travel on the way back but probably can't share going to the apartment as I am stopping off to see a friend in Christchurch City for lunch before going to the apartment

[spotty]

I will be on the same flight as you, Jennifer.
Looking at using bus services ...
Seems a bit pointless going all way out to apartments and then coming back to city for photowalk though.

[JanP]

Hi Jo and Jennifer. I guess bus services would be the best option - didn't think of that :D Thank you Jo.

[spotty]

Bus 10 [27 min]
Airport to Exchange [this is the centre of the bus routes]
Mon to Fri 10 and 40 past the hour and others.
Exchange to Airport [32 min] [$7.50]
Sunday 48 past the hour from 7 am , 58 past after 5pm

Map all routes - http://www.metroinfo.org.nz/docs/route-map-christchurch-050710.pdf

Non airport buses have a flat rate of $3.20 per trip - Gold card free trips 9am - 3pm and after 6.30pm
So costs $3.20 one way to appt. , $3.20 to Lyttleton too as it is part of Chch. I think we will be visiting the Exchange frequently :)

[littlekiwi]

I will be on the same flight as you, Jennifer.
Looking at using bus services ...
Seems a bit pointless going all way out to apartments and then coming back to city for photowalk though.

Which way is that going? If so which seat have you booked? I have booked 15F for both trips (I felt lazy when booking :rofl:)

[spotty]

Didn't notice anything about booking a seat... :think:

[littlekiwi]

Didn't notice anything about booking a seat... :think:

it was one of the last steps I believe but I'm sure you will be able to find a seat when you check in - maybe ring Air NZ to check

[littlekiwi]

If you haven't booked your flights there are some $49 flights online at Air NZ today from Auckland. - mainly for coming back as there are only a few early cheap flights going down

There are a few cheap flights from Wellington but not nearly as good.

[Lauren]

Ive received money from Jo , Jennifer and Erica .
Just a reminder I need the deposit from the rest of you by tomorrow please.
I will send out PMs shortly with reminders

[thecharmed01]

I'll transfer mine tonight Lauren, sorry this part of the week is super busy for me!

[littlekiwi]

I'll transfer mine tonight Lauren, sorry this part of the week is super busy for me!

I think it being a short week doesn't help either - I can't believe tomorrow is Friday

[mum2riley]

I've put through money, paid in full.

[Lauren]

Thanks everyone - I have received full amounts or deposits from everyone ( well all the NZers ) now - thanks so much - the accomodation is all booked and confirmed.

[Erica]

:tup::tup:

[thecharmed01]

Yay!

[littlekiwi]

glad everything is going so well with this - can't wait for Feb now

[spotty]

:yippee: Thank you, Lauren :tup:

[JanP]

Been watching all morning for the Grabaseat for Napier/Christchurch to show up. It just did but has already sold out!!! :lol: Guess it probably wouldn't have been the right dates anyway. :rofl: So I've just booked my normal flights so I don't miss out. Got a real early that goes direct from Napier to Christchurch on Friday, and a two-parter back again on Sunday. Stops over in Wellington for half an hour. So I think I'm set. Just need to make sure I know where to go on Friday morning! Yay can't wait!!!

[Erica]

Sorry you couldn't get that special but :tup::tup: you're all booked :D

[JanP]

:wave: Hey Erica :wave: Yep - all booked!

[thecharmed01]

awww gutted you missed out on cheap flights, but glad you booked!!!!

[littlekiwi]

just wanted to share with you all that at the retreat I'll finally be using Photoshop CS4 Extended rather than Photoshop Elements 6. After having a few teething issues installing it my friend was able to get it done in less than an hour.

[spotty]

WTG, Jennifer, there'll be no stopping you now! :tup:

[littlekiwi]

been busy the past few days - got a 20 page album printed plus playing cards for my atc's all for less than $10 from Artscow. Glad I am not booking my flight today as it is $412, I paid $138.

[littlekiwi]

been busy again creating layouts and things - my most recent thing was a keychain watch for nursing - I paid 5.99 for it (just the shipping as I had a free item)

[littlekiwi]

Can't believe the retreat is less than 2 months away now! Glad I am all better though for it as in November I was admitted to hospital for severe anemia. My iron level was 23 and it should have been 123.

My question is - Is there anyone arriving on Friday morning around 10ish that wants to spend the day with me as my friend who I was going to see is sitting exams that day so I won't see her until just before I fly home on Sunday but at least we are seeing each other.

[spotty]

Jennifer, we are on the same flight, I believe. We can meet up at Christchurch airport if not done so on the plane. By the time we get to the city it will probably be time to rendezvous with the others anyway... :tup:

[Lauren]

just a note - I will be asking for final payments toward the end of this month - some of you have paid in full already ( thanks, Jan, Mum2Riley and LittleKiwi ) -for the rest of you I will need the balance by mid Febuary.

[JanP]

<giggle> Lauren - today IS the end of this month! :rofl:

[Lauren]

ha ha - yeah i did mean next month i guess - Im working on March products so im calendar challenged!!

[JanP]

You're already in next year!!! OMG! :rofl:

[bendipez]

Just for the heck of it let's say I'm coming.....
where should i fly into etc.......

[Lauren]

from the US you have no choice but to fky into Auckland first

[bendipez]

Plan would be fly I to Auckland. Arrive in the 7am ish range then catch a flight to Christchurch that departs around 10:45 or so.......??

[littlekiwi]

Jo - I am on flight NZ509 leaving Auckland at 9am on the Friday

[littlekiwi]

Boy have Artscow & I become friends real fast!

So far I have ordered a 6x6 photobook, playing cards, a key chain watch, notebook & a 12x12 canvas. Hopefully some of them will arrive in time for the retreat so I can bring them.

[Erica]

happy new year retreat peeps
:tup::tup::tup::tup:

[JanP]

What Erica said ... we're already in 2011 here! :)
Hope it's a good one for everyone.

[spotty]

How about this for a date!

................:yikes: .. :) .. :D .. 1-1-11 .. :yippee:

:drumroll: Happy 2011 from Day One to All of You! :party:

[spotty]

Jo - I am on flight NZ509 leaving Auckland at 9am on the Friday
See you there, Jennifer! :tup:

[mum2riley]

Happy New Year everyone!!

The retreat is getting close now, I can't wait! :)

[Lauren]

I will be in Christchurch for a few hours on Jan 18 because of an appointment I have there , and hope to meet up with Fiona and discuss the photo walk route and other things regarding the retreat so after then I will have more details for you regarding our activities.

[littlekiwi]

YAY!!!!

just received parcel 1 of about 6 which was my set of playing cards (I use them as ATC's to give to scrappy friends when I attend retreats and crops) from Artscow in Hong Kong - only took 13 days to get here which I think is pretty good considering the time of year.

[thecharmed01]

I will be in Christchurch for a few hours on Jan 18 because of an appointment I have there , and hope to meet up with Fiona and discuss the photo walk route and other things regarding the retreat so after then I will have more details for you regarding our activities.

I'm down there for the entire day on the 19th!
I got $39 fares so am popping down for the day, going to meet up with Fay too YAY!

[spotty]

Anyone know about the swimming [or not-swimming] at New Brighton north beach? "Our" beach?

[Lauren]

I went to see the location of the retreat yesterday with Fiona.
The location is not that convenient and not a very "salubrious" area but on the postive side it is just across the road from the beach and its a gorgeous beach - in fact its just across the road from the surf club .
Its probably a kilometre or so from the pier so walking distance but quite a long way - but its a completely flat walk.
There are no close restaurants but there is a bus stop just across the road.
The closest restaurants would be down by the peir.
SO...
weve sort of planned out an idea for the photo walk dinner on friday but we need to know your arrival times.
Providing you all arrive in time we plan to meet at the venue at around 1pm - leave our luggage there and get a taxi van/s into town.
We will walk around the arts centre area etc - and perhaps catch the tram for the city tour ( optional) - and then eat dinner at a restaurant in town - yet to be decided.
On the Saturday we can either cab or walk to Brighton Pier and eat there or get fish and chips or pizza or something similar.
The walk of course will be weather dependent but there is shelter in the arts centre area.
We can also put off the walk till Saturday if we want to
If the weather is good there are opportunities for beach photos too.

But first I need your arrival times so can you let me know that ..

[littlekiwi]

I arrive in Christchurch at 10.20am

I can't do a lot of walking so would prefer to meet you at the accommodation and drop my stuff off then do my own thing until dinner and meet you all again - its not that I don't want to participate but late last year I was diagnosed with anemia and am still recovering

[spotty]

I am booked on the same flight as Jennifer - so 10.20 at the airport. Will see if we can group up with anyone else to go direct to the accommodation - otherwise it is 2 x 25 mins bus rides into the CBD and out again.

The ?Indian? Restaurant down by the pier, offers free transport when economically suitable. Could be OK for Sat night providing we book in time AND if they have an A rating...

There is a bus every quarter of an hour down to the pier from base during daylight.
Anyone fancy a 1.5Km 'walk' down there to catch sunrise under the pier... weather permitting - sat or sun

Did you experience any tremors, Lauren? :)

[Lauren]

yes there was a very small earthquake while i was there but nothing more than what you feel when a truck goes along the road beside you - in fact Fiona and I both felt it in separate buildings and both wondered if it was in fact a truck on the road!

[littlekiwi]

or in my case a freight train going down the North Island main trunk line

[thecharmed01]

There were a few small tremors today when I was down there. Nothing major, but shame they haven't died down yet...
They are still causing a lot of trouble down there :(
It is bothering me about staying in a multi-story hotel though tbh too. I want to, but the thought of being higher than the first floor is making me a little paranoid.... I'm such a wuss LOL

I arrive at 9.25am on Friday and have to be back at the airport at 1pm on Sunday.

[littlekiwi]

If I wasn't meeting a friend on Sunday I would go to the airport with you Sharyn, but I might still see you there as I leave at 1.30pm so have to be there at 1 as well

[thecharmed01]

Yay! Do you have a direct flight to aucks? Or through Welly?

[littlekiwi]

I'm direct - it was cheaper that way

[spotty]

Sharyn, I believe the apartments are on two floor levels with just the garaging and maybe utility rooms underneath. Take a look at this aerial shot (http://maps.google.co.nz/?ie=UTF8&ll=-43.531637,172.636645&spn=0.029122,0.056734&z=14) 72 Marine Parade. Apparently they have not had damage in that area... Lauren will know more. :hug:

[littlekiwi]

Does anyone have any tips for taking laptops on flights? This is the first time I will be travelling with mine and am not sure what needs to happen etc

[mum2riley]

Usually you just need to take it out of the bag and put it through the scanner with everything else.

[honeymoon]

Does anyone have any tips for taking laptops on flights? This is the first time I will be travelling with mine and am not sure what needs to happen etc

I travel with mine all the time. Make sure it is easy to get it out of your laptop bag to go through the scanner and easy to put back in on the other side.

I turn the wireless off while I'm on the plane, and then once the seatbelt sign is turned off you can use it on the plane, just has to be turned off when they tell you before landing.


Don't worry too much about tremors.. they just give you something to talk about.

[littlekiwi]

Thanks Fay & Fiona - thats the type of thing I thought would be the case but best to check before hand

[spotty]

Lauren, may we have an up to date list of who is coming? The one at the beginning does not contain CathieMarie; I'm working on my ATCs... oops single ATC multicopied!

No point in planning what to wear yet - I'm sure it SHOULD still be Summer here but ... :yikes:

[Lauren]

I still dont have a confirmation re Cathiemarie so that list is correct until I do receive that confirmation

[bendipez]

Those were not tremors, they were me stomping my feet that I can't come....lololol..!!

[spotty]

Thanks Lauren :)
I was wondering why we had not 'heard' from CathieMarie lately.
Hope she is OK!

:yahoo: Count down begins tomorrow :yippee:

[Lauren]

I just heard from her and she said shes 99% positive shes coming so thats great news

[Chardonnay]

Lauren, I can be at the venue at any time, so can you tell me when everyone is meeting up there?

[Lauren]

Yes sure - when Ive heard from everyone I will set a time for us to meet there.
I will also email the owner and let him know that some may arrive early and want to leave their luggage

[Chardonnay]

And another thing I meant to say ... as I'm on the spot in Chch do let me know if I can do anything to help.

[Lauren]

CathieMarie is definitely coming - I just got her itinerary by email!

[Cathiemarie]

CathieMarie is definitely coming - I just got her itinerary by email!

Yep I am, I bought my ticket this morning - and I promise I won't wear anything rude this time.:lol::lol::lol:

[Erica]

Yep I am, I bought my ticket this morning - and I promise I won't wear anything rude this time.:lol::lol::lol:

:rofl::rofl: I loved your sexy T Shirt Cathie. So excited to see you again :yahoo:

[littlekiwi]

WOO HOO - 3 weeks to go!!!!!

[spotty]

Yep I am, I bought my ticket this morning - and I promise I won't wear anything rude this time.:lol::lol::lol:

How will I recognise you!
Ah, the friendly smile and happy nature, yes.
So pleased you are coming again.
See you soon :yippee:

EDIT: friendly smile and happy nature describes everyone else as well. Not to worry - I have your photo; that should cope with any short-term-memory-loss I may have...

[bendipez]

Yep I am, I bought my ticket this morning - and I promise I won't wear anything rude this time.:lol::lol::lol:

I wii if you will. Oh ooops i can't come so you gotta wear one for me!!!

[Lauren]

More details on the photo walk/dinner

I have booked a table at Oasis Restaurant for 6.30 on Friday evening.
. They do a set price meal - Pick one Entree/Main/Dessert from their menu for $55 .
Drinks of course are on top of this but it would be easier if you could have cash for dinner so that paying will be easier.
There is a lovely cocktail menu too ( just sayin!!!)
You can check out their menu here (http://www.oasisbar.co.nz/Poplars-Hotel-and-Cashel-Apartments/About-Oasis_IDL=7_IDT=2880_ID=16465_.html)

We will be doing our photo walk around the Arts Centre/ Botanic Gardens area and then we will catch the city tour tram (http://www.tram.co.nz/Christchurch-Tramway-Ltd/Tram-Tour_IDL=2_IDT=2961_ID=16947_.html)
which costs $17 but is valid for 2 days - so if anyone wanted to go back into town on Saturday they could use their ticket again.
The restaurant is very near the tram station. We can get on and off as we desire if we want to extend our photo walk to different parts of the city.

We will meet at the accommodation at 1pm and order a couple of taxi vans to take us into town and back. Im unsure of the cost of this but split between us it should be fairly reasonable.

I think it would be a good idea to have a reasonable amount of cash on hand to cover dinner,taxi and tram $100 should be more than enough

[JanP]

Sounds good Lauren! Thanks for all your organising. I think it's going to be a wonderful weekend.

[Lauren]

Lets hope for good weather!!- Im looking forward to it too - there are lots of photo ops - and brighton beach is just across the road from the apartments too and its very nice - I took a couple of photos when I was there a few weeks ago with Fiona-
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/freebies/Lauren/_DSC4574-Edit-Edit.jpghttp://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/freebies/Lauren/_DSC4577-Edit.JPG

[littlekiwi]

Sounds good - as with the May dinner last year I will probably just order off the menu as I can't eat as much as everyone else due to surgery.

[Lauren]

No problem - I chose a set menu restaurant for easy pricing and paying - with most restaurants only having one bill per table it can get very complicated otherwise. - but as long as you have the right money then it should be completely fine

[JanP]

Wonderful photos Lauren. Think I'll just trail you and do what you do! :rofl:

[Lauren]

Taxi will cost 40-45 each way and takes 10 passengers so split between us won't be more than $10 each total for both directions

[littlekiwi]

Great - I was worried about that part of the day

[carti]

Wish I were able to go to this. Never been there. However too expensive for me.
Retired and on very limited income. I just am happy if I can go to Adobe in San Jose.
Anyway, have fun everybody.

[bendipez]

Drat!!! With the money I'm spending on my stupid teeth I could fly over 1st class and really explore !! Oh well, will hafta console myself at Pezcific!!! Yep, Pez convention in Manhattan Beach Ca!! That weekend !!!

[Lauren]

Well that will be fun Brenda - send a flattie !!

[spotty]

Thanks for all your organizing, Lauren! It will be so nice to ride in the tram after the photo walk and finish with a short stroll by the Avon to Oasis.
Hey, I can even see the Pier in one of your photos and I love how you have caught the light on the sea in the other pic.
Not long now :yippee:
I am hoping to get a flattie out of Julia - maybe she can sit/er/reside by Bendi's flattie.

[Lauren]

Ive designed some new ATC cards - but will probably print myself this time seeing we only need 9!

[littlekiwi]

just saw this that might interest us on Friday night

Christchurch Chinese Lantern Festival - Twilight Parade

All our international performers will take part in the inaugural musical parade from Rolleston Avenue to Cathedral Square, starting at 8.30pm on Friday 25 February. The procession, leaving from Rolleston Ave end of Worcester Boulevard and proceeding to Cathedral Square, will be led by the Qiao Yi Lion Dance Team and will feature both international and local performers in traditional costume, community groups, dragon boats and lanterns.

[Lauren]

That might make for some great photo ops Jennifer . I also read about sine topiary displays around the city

[Lauren]

FYI Cathie arrives tomorrow morning.. I'll be picking her up!!

[littlekiwi]

That might make for some great photo ops Jennifer .

Thats what I thought too

[littlekiwi]

FYI Cathie arrives tomorrow morning.. I'll be picking her up!!

Exciting times for all. I for one can't wait for the retreat especially now I have CS4 & a new camera to play with

[spotty]

I have decided to stay an extra night - may never get the chance to go back to Christchurch again and I would like to ride the Gondola - among other things - just hope the weather makes it worthwhile... Am staying at an hotel in the city which is just by a tram stop, which could be useful.

Who else [besides Jennifer ] is expecting to arrive at Chch airport around 10am Friday? I fancy getting a taxi of some sort rather than bus into town and out again. :pray:

[Lauren]

I sent out an email to all of you today. Let me know if you didnt get it.
Im hoping for fine weather for Friday - if its really pouring down then we might think about postponing the photowalk till Saturday ( will still do the dinner Friday) - but we can make that decision on the day.

[littlekiwi]

I got the email and realised how much I still have to do before 6.30am on Friday!

[mum2riley]

I didn't get the email. I'll PM you now with my email addy.

[Lauren]

Thanks Fay. I had another email for you. I've resent!!

[mum2riley]

Just one thing - the Chinese Lantern festival is on Saturday night, 5.30-10.30pm.

[Lauren]

Yes but the parade is friday.
http://bethere.co.nz/arts/2011/6062-christchurch-chinese-lantern-festival-twilight-parade

[mum2riley]

Cool. I hadn't seen that one advertised.

[Lauren]

a big quake i hear... Not good... I will phone the venue shortly but phones are down now..6.3 so very big

[littlekiwi]

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10707996

[JanP]

a big quake i hear... Not good... I will phone the venue shortly but phones are down now..6.3 so very big

Has anyone heard from Honeymoon or Chardonay?

[Lauren]

Theres no reply from the vene at this point. I did text Fiona and got one response but i believe the cell phones are down too

[Lauren]

If you check the tv one news its really NOT good.

[Lauren]

Ive heard from Fiona once but not Fay or Bett - I only have email addresses for them and not cell phones

[Lauren]

Given the level of destruction do you still want to go?- The venue has a 7 day cancellation policy so I dont know what they will do regarding the costs but if they dont charge me i can refund you your money.

[Lauren]

I will email you all now and keep you up to date with the situation

[JanP]

Given the level of destruction do you still want to go?- The venue has a 7 day cancellation policy so I dont know what they will do regarding the costs but if they dont charge me i can refund you your money.

Murphy's law isn't it? I do hope everyone is OK. The news is quite horrific. I just watched a video on youtube with a guy saying that a huge rock has crushed the Sumner RSA. It was quite scary watching.

I guess the crop will depend on the airport. If it's not accessible by Friday they may refund our airfares too.

I still want to go but will go with the majority decision.

[littlekiwi]

I'm still ok to go as long as we can get into Christchurch

[Lauren]

Just an FYI- the venue phone lines are still down so Im unable to make contact at this stage.

[Lauren]

I imagine there are lots of injuries this time- its horrific really looking at the damage.

[JanP]

They just said on the news that there is an unconfirmed report of a fatality. That guy they were dragging out looked pretty crook to me.

[Lauren]

yes he didnt look at all good did he - I fear it may not be good at all down there and there are many aftershocks still going on now .

[Lauren]

I'll try and phone the venue again later on tonight - the phone lines are down still and I dont want to clog them anymore than they already are and Im sure there are thousands trying to get hold of loved ones

[JanP]

TV3 are reporting multiple fatalities. They've run out of ambulances. Vodafone are asking for people to stay off the phones all over the country unless it's an emergency. This is just awful.

[Lauren]

It's really not looking good and the epicenter was on the same side as our venue. We may have no choice but to cancel

[littlekiwi]

I understand completely - hopefully we could do it elsewhere or later in the year

[Lauren]

Yes Ive emailed the venue just to touch base with them. Ive suggested it may be prudent to cancel or at least postpone. Im hoping they will give us a refund due to the circumstances and I will be able to refund you.
I will keep you all in touch with the situation as Im updated by them.

[littlekiwi]

I am so glad I bought insurance through Air NZ - I've had a claim form sent to me by email incase I need it

[Lauren]

I didnt but luckily I didnt pay too much for my flights so im not bothered too much about that but Im disappointed for us all - however our disappointment is really nothing compared to the poor people of Christchuch

[Donut]

Thinking of everyone in Christchurch, Fiona, Bett, Fay...who else is there? Hope you are all ok, it looks absolutely awful down there so scary. :(

[JanP]

Thinking of everyone in Christchurch, Fiona, Bett, Fay...who else is there? Hope you are all ok, it looks absolutely awful down there so scary. :(

Been watching TV3 showing live feed of rescues from a building that's collapsed. It's horrific. Wish I could help. They say there are still about 200 people trapped. It looks like four floors have collapsed into one

[Lauren]

I know - its just horrible isnt it Jan - its just horrible- I cant find words.

[Donut]

It just makes you feel ill doesn't it? It looks so dreadful. :(

[JanP]

I feel sick but I have to watch. If I turn it off I feel like I'm turning my back on them.

[littlekiwi]

I have PM'd you Lauren with an idea. Hope you get it.

[littlekiwi]

Here is what I found on the Air NZ website

Christchurch Earthquake Update

Air New Zealand flights into and out of Christchurch up until 7pm this evening are cancelled pending the completion of infrastructure and runways checks by Christchurch Airport.

Air New Zealand is introducing ticketing flexibility on all fare types for those due to travel to and from Christchurch. The options are as follows for passengers ticketed prior to the Tuesday 22 February:

* Passengers ticketed for travel to and from Christchurch prior to and including Friday 25 March may defer their travel to a later Air New Zealand flight in the same booking class inside 12-months of the original date of travel without penalty. If only higher booking classes are available, the fare differential will apply. If the proposed date of travel is unknown, then the value of the ticket may be held in credit for payment towards travel within the same 12-month validity.
* Passengers ticketed to travel to Christchurch prior to and including Friday 25 March may change their travel to another Air New Zealand destination without penalty. In this instance any applicable fare differential will apply.
* Passengers who are ticketed and wish to bring their travel to/from Christchurch forward to a date on/prior to Friday 11 March may do so in the same cabin (regardless of booking class) without penalty and fare difference. If a cabin upgrade is required the fare differential will apply.
* Any incidental costs and penalties such as accommodation etc will be the passengers own responsibility.

Air New Zealand will continue to monitor the situation in Christchurch and advise of any changes should the need arise.

[littlekiwi]

from Jetstar

Christchurch Earthquake and Jetstar Services

Updated 1230 22 February 2011

Earthquake in Christchurch and Jetstar services

A significant earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale has occurred in Christchurch late this morning.

Christchurch International Airport is presently closed.

Jetstar wishes to advise that a result of this event, our domestic and trans-Tasman international services to and from Christchurch have been suspended for the remainder of today (Tuesday 22 February) until further notice.

Jetstar New Zealand services this afternoon to/from Auckland, Wellington and Queenstown are also presently affected and will not operate until further notice due to air traffic control.

The safety of our passengers and our people is Jetstar's number one priority at this time.

Jetstar is working closely with New Zealand airport authorities regarding the status of safe flying operations for Christchurch and our remaining New Zealand airports.

Jetstar will soon issue a customer advisory offering flexible fare arrangements for travel.

Jetstar.com will be regularly updated with the latest information, including the recommencement of services.

Beyond updates at Jetstar.com, our customers with near travel requirements to, from or within New Zealand on our low fare services can call the Jetstar Contact Centre directly:
+ 0800 800 995 within New Zealand
131 538 within Australia

An updated media advisory will be issued later today regarding the status of Jetstar’s NZ operations.

[JanP]

That's useful Jennifer. If the retreat is postponed we could just change our flights. Well done. :)

[Donut]

I feel sick but I have to watch. If I turn it off I feel like I'm turning my back on them.

Exactly. :( I can't even begin to imagine what it must be like to be there, or to be trapped...I just wish we could do something.

[Lauren]

Thanks for that Jennifer!! That's very helpful.

[honeymoon]

I'm ok and so is family. Now home.

Very shaken and was in central city when it struck. Buildings collapsing in front of me.

Personally I don't think the retreat should be held. Infrastructure is going to be hopeless. Guessing lots of broken pipes and roads not good all over the place. Central city is going to be in lock down for quite a while.

Having lots of aftershocks.

Watch our life here: http://quake.crowe.co.nz/ if you want to see how many aftershocks we get from this one.

[addielee]

I'm thinking of you all as I just heard the news.

[littlekiwi]

I would feel happier after seeing the devastation is to wait a few months or even change to a different city

[Jeanrx]

Just heard about this. Keeping you all in my prayers that everyone is safe.

[Lauren]

Yes given the situation and seeing the news i think it will be irresponsible to go ahead.
I've emailed the venue and requested a cancellation and refund. I'm hoping he will so I can refund you your money. I can refund you the food portion now which sadly isn't that much.

[littlekiwi]

Should I defer my air tickets or get a refund through the insurance which is going to be harder as I need written evidence of damage to our accomodation for that to go through

[Donut]

SO happy to hear you and yours are ok Fiona, I can't begin to imagine how scary it must be! Take care and stay safe, hugs and thoughts with everyone down there right now. xx

[Lauren]

Should I defer my air tickets or get a refund through the insurance which is going to be harder as I need written evidence of damage to our accomodation for that to go through

Jennifer till I hear from the venue I cant give you any advice on that.
I will try again to phone later tonight or perhaps tomorrow. If they dont give us a refund i will look at postponing till later in the year.
Given the situation they SHOULD give us a refund so fingers crossed.
Their website is pretty firm about it though.

[spotty]

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/image.cfm?c_id=1&gal_cid=1&gallery_id=116912#7379144
graphic photos.

horrifying - guess I will not get to photograph the Cathedral - ever.

[littlekiwi]

Ok I will wait until Thurs to make a firm decision on that

[swatkins56]

Praying for you all.

[Jeanrx]

Just saw some pictures & I don't think you gals will be going there soon. It looks horrible & that Cathedral is devastated. I understand it happened while people were at work & children in school. Just awful.