On the way back from Christchurch we passed the Buller Gorge swing bridge (longest in NZ apparently) and flying fox. Feeling a bit bored from all the driving, and in need of some fun, we stopped to check it out. We paid up to walk across the bridge then get strapped into the flying fox for our return journey – whizzing back over the Gorge at 70kph+. Only problem was getting over the bridge – I took about 20 steps onto it, it started bouncing and wobbling around, I looked down and noticed the floor was made of mesh and then everything started to blur in and out of focus and I freaked out – NO WAY was I walking across that thing unless my life depended on it. Suffice to say Lisa and Buster strolled across like it was a walk in the park, even shimmying past some guy they met half way!! I went back to the hut, begged for my money back (the indignity) and stayed on terra firma with another guy who had bottled it, consoling ourselves on the fact that we would have done it, just didn’t feel much like it.

I would have liked to do the flying fox bit but was, from that point on, unworthy so sat around getting bitten to death by sand flies whilst the intrepid duo flew back across the Gorge screeming with delight.

Mum – don’t go. Anyone else, including children under 4, I think you would have an ace time, just don’t say I didn’t warn you that it was very very high, wobbly and terrifying.

 


Comments

jemma

Sat, 12 Apr 2008 04:57:43

woohoo! We can do that too!
You chicken poo Paul.
Oh, just realised that by taking the piss out of you I am committing myself without actually seeing how high and treacherous it is. The last swing bridge I was on was at Plankey Mill campsite when I was 10 and that was only about 20m long. Although if we do visit I plan to be slightly inebriated on NZ wine for the whole month so that will help dispel any reservations.

 

Copley

Sun, 13 Apr 2008 02:39:54

Oh dear Peej... Out-manned by a mere child and a WOMAN!

 

PJ

Sun, 13 Apr 2008 22:21:33

Yes. My mind is convinced that I am far too precious to undertake such pointless exercises of bravado. I also have a complete lack of trust when it comes to either Carnies or Backpackers who tend to run these death defying attractions with a beer in hand and a slightly glazed expression. I expect you to be walking over it on your hands when you come Stevo - if not I'll be there with a camera to document everything!

 

JP

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 05:01:27

Only several Valium and a large sum of cash waiting at the other end would have got me to cross that thing.

 

PJ

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 13:28:57

I know John - as if!! Also, thanks a million for the chocolate - what a treat. They do have Cadburys out here but it just doesn't taste quite the same. The best bit was that Lisa thought it was for her so ate the Aero without giving me a single piece. I was delighted when I turned the note over and saw it was actually intended for me. I also enjoyed chomping it all down in front of her greedy little face - hmmmmmmmmmm.

 

matt

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:25:16

justice - in my book, Lisa can chomp all she wants - you ate my Chinese chocolate !!

 

PJ

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 20:09:50

Didn't even taste very good Mat - but you know me, I don't discriminate when it comes to free/someone else's chocolate. IN MY BELLY.

Good to hear from you Ging - hope all is well in the world of the Whall.

 



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