Volendam day Seven Sunday 30/10/11

Dropped anchor in Akoroa harbour at 7:30 and after breakfast we got aboard a tender and were ashore by 8:45, all very speedy really despite the long journey in the tender. Browsed a few shops by the pier and found an open cafe to have a coffee whilst waiting for a red hoodie to appear. Just after 9 Joanna appeared and answered to the hail. Off for a quick tour of the village - 500 population in winter - and back to her villa for coffee and a browse of all the family photos. Planned to go round the Banks peninsula to Little River for lunch then back again. Right to the far end of the volcano rim and up over the top on ever narrowing windy roads. Viewing the ship from almost all sides on the way. Track deteriorated into single file gravel and having pointed another traveller in the right direction we followed her, then when she chickened out she followed us right round the mountains and valleys to arrive in Little River for lunch and a browse of the craft gallery. The journey back was more direct but included a scenic diversion down the stock road then back to Akaroa, past one or two buildings that had suffered badly in the recent quakes, and followed a no 36 London bus into the centre. Bizarre. Took our leave of Joanna and looked at the remnants of the stalls for the french weekend which we'd almost missed, the most lively day being the Saturday. Sunday's only attraction being french cricket tournament and shopping! Cup of tea in the Stables and a wander back along main street to the quay for the tender ride back. Formal dinner tonight - decided to go early then go to the acrobatic show.
On a table for eight tonight - all americans - much discussion about Qantas shutdown. Cut short the usual coffee time chat and excused ourselves for the show. Two guys and a sheila put on quite a stylish show of strength and balance despite the movement of the ship. Hula hoops galore expertly twirled.