July 6

Today was our first rainy day in New Zealand. We began the day by going to Landcare Research to meet up with world renowned botanist, Collin Meurk. He lectured on the natural history of the Canterbury Plains. He covered the effects of precipitation, geography, and wind on the biodiversity of New Zealand.
Next, we all headed down to Riccarton Bush to look at the restoration work that has been done there. We walked through the area, stopping to learn about the various native plants. Some included various the potocarps: Totora, Matai, Kahikatea.

We then went up to the Port Hills at Banks Peninsula. We hiked around the area reviewing some more native plants. Hiking through the Riccarton Bush and through the Port Hills to find different flora was an amazing learning experience. It was great learning about the plants in their natural habitats. When we got to the peak, the sky cleared just enough for us to view the harbor below.

To finish the day off, we stopped by Cup Café for tea time. I got my first flat white and it was great! - Kristin