From the far northwest corner of the South Island we drive east to Blenheim then south to the tragically quake-damaged city of Christchurch. Nearby, the once picturesque suburb, Sumner on the seaside is greatly damaged too. Cliffsides that supported beautiful holiday homes now look like gaping holes leaving nothing but rubble. Maersk shipping containers set side by side along roadsides act as retaining walls should more earth tumble onto roadsides from future quakes.
Soon on the North Island in Auckland we follow the RWC Quarter-Finals, spending time before the Eden Park games by checking out the RWC activities on the Wharf. Happily the All Blacks win and move foward to the the Semi-Finals but sadly Geoff’s English team gives way to France.
All Blacks fans elated with important win over Argentina
Quarter-Final results
New Zealand see off Argentina 33-10 thanks to 21 points from the boot of Piri Weepu at Auckland’s Eden Park to set up a semi-final against Australia. As well, Mils Muliania becomes New Zealand’s second Test centurion along with Richie McCaw’s recent 100th cap award.
Australia beats South Africa 11-9 in their quarter-final in Wellington thanks to a 71st-minute penalty goal from James O’Connor.
Wales overcomes Ireland 22-10
France forces England to return home with a score of 19-12
Now to the Semi-Finals!
France will play Wales and the New Zealand All Blacks will play Australia.
