Fred and Myrtle's Paua Shell House

The Paua Shell House as it came to be known, was situated at 258 Marine Parade, Bluff, near Invercargill in the far south of New Zealand. Over the years, Fred and Myrtle Flutey decorated their home with thousands of paua shells and became a famous attraction in the area. On their death, their grandson purchased their home and loaned the collection to the Canterbury Museum in Christchurch. The house was recreated within the museum and using photos, the collection was repositioned as it was in the original home. The display is free to enter and includes a short film about the Flutey’s and their unusual hobby.

Botanic Gardens Christchurch

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are well established and date back to 1863 when the first oak tree was planted. Well known features of the gardens include the Peacock Fountain, the rose garden and the hot houses. Displays in these conservatories range from orchids, to cacti, to ferns, to tropical plants. The rose garden is home to 104 beds and a profusion of climbing, standard and Hybrid Tea modern garden roses. The RiverAvon winds its way through the gardens and a pond attracts ducks and other birds. A tearoom offers refreshments and it’s the perfect place for a family outing or a romantic date. The gardens are open from 7am to 9pm.

Rarotonga - Island Paradise

Rarotonga is part of the Cook Islands and is a favoured destination for tourists from New Zealand and Australia. Set in the Pacific Ocean, it is the largest of the Cook Islands but still small enough to drive around in less than an hour - and that's at the top speed of 50 kmh! Favoured activities include snorkelling, cultural evenings and zipping around the island on scooters. The white coral beaches, transparent water and swaying palms give a sense of calm and peace and the underwater world of colourful fish is a top attraction. Pack your swimming gear, sunscreen, insect repellent and relax!

Vancouver - A City that Reflects the Sun

Vancouver is sometimes referred to as a city of reflections. Surrounded by water on three sides, the city centre is home to a number of the high-rise buildings that are sheathed in reflective glass. With a low number of sunshine hours, the water and glass make the city a delight when the sun is shining. Light bounces from surface to surface, reflecting, gleaming and lightening the whole atmosphere.

Locals and tourists take advantage of sunny days and congregate along the waterfront areas, enjoying a break from work, coffee and tasty meals.
 

Chinese Ming & Qing Furniture

Ming and Qing furniture are classical styles of Chinese furniture dating back to ancient times. Ming is the simpler of the two styles with an elegant structure, fluid lines and pleasing proportions.

Qing furniture is more elaborate with detailed carvings and inlays, and is larger in size and design.
The Shanghai Museum has a fine collection of Ming and Qing furniture, some of which is extremely ornate and incorporates intricate carvings and three dimensional  work in jade, ivory and wood.

The museum's display includes stools, tables, chairs, beds and screens and is well worth a visit if in Shanghai.