Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and the country’s second largest urban area. It sits on the eastern coast about a third of the way down the island. Christchurch is known internationally as the “Garden City” because of the spectacular gardens dotting the city. It is one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

The city radiates out from Cathedral Square which is highlighted by the Anglican Christchurch Cathedral, an outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture. You can climb up to the spire for a bird’s-eye view of the city and, while there, examine the cathedral bells at close hand. Adjacent to the Cathedral is a modern sculpture, the Chalice, resembling a giant stainless steel ice cream cone. During the Spring and Summer months browse the Square’s weekend arts and crafts market.

Cathedral Square is a popular destination and hosts attractions such as the speakers’ corner and an over-sized chess board. The central city includes pedestrian Cashel Street as Christchurch’s urban mall. At one end of the mall stands the Bridge Of Remembrance; at the other end, the old location of the amphitheatre known as the Hack Circle.

A great way to get acclimated to the city is by taking a heritage tram ride or going for a leisurely paddle down the Avon River in a punt (like a flat gondola). Christchurch is a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping and award-winning attractions.

A bit if Christchurch history

Archeological evidence found in a cave at Redcliffs in 1876 has indicated that the Christchurch area was first settled by moa (extinct birds) hunting Maori tribes about 1250. Exploration by early traders from Australia and the west coast of NZ can be traced to the 1840s through the port at Lyttelton this was the original site for the city but due to expansion, a site of the present day city was chosen over the hills that opened to the expansive Canterbury Plains for growth.

The city was named after Christ Church, a college at the University of Oxford and was originally known as Christ Church. The name was abbreviated through common usage by the 1880s.

Christchurch city is not only a fantastic place to visit, but from here you can easily access the heart of the South Island. Christchurch International Airport is the South Island’s tourism gateway, and only 20 minutes’ drive from the city center.

Travel north for hot pools, vineyards and oceanic wildlife encounters. A journey west could mean a train trip over the Southern Alps, to discover rainforest and glaciers. Head south and discover our beautiful high country, topped off by Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain.

Interesting fact: Christchurch has one of the highest quality (purity and cleanliness) water supplies in the world.

Some not to be missed activities include:

Christchurch Gondola

The Christchurch Gondola is situated just 15 minutes from the inner city. Situated on the Port Hills, the Summit Station of the Gondola provides spectacular panoramic views from its elevation at 500 meters (1,650 ft.) above sea level. Take in the Canterbury Plains, Banks Peninsula, Lyttelton Harbour and the city center await you. From the summit access many walking tracks, visit the Time Tunnel Ride Experience or relax over coffee

Christchurch Tramway

The Christchurch Tram is a unique, elegant and environmentally friendly way to see the city. Christchurch’s inner city is a special place to explore with outstanding heritage buildings, restful parks, the meandering Avon River, unique shopping precincts, historic Cathedral Square and fascinating Worcester Boulevard and Arts Centre. Tram drivers will provide you with an entertaining and informative 30-minute tour of the city sights. However all tickets are valid for two consecutive days, so jump on and off as you like. For something extra special, enjoy evening dining on the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant while it rolls through the city.

Punting on the Avon

Experience life the way it should be – relaxed, tranquil and thoroughly enjoyable! Sink back into the velvet cushions of your boat as the Edwardian punter gently glides you down the Avon River, through the beautiful historic inner city of Christchurch.

International Antarctic Attraction

The Antarctic Attraction at the International Antarctic Centre, located next to Christchurch International Airport allows you to experience Antarctica in a fun, exciting all weather environment. Experience real Antarctic conditions with Audiovisual and Touch Screen technology and feel ‘genuine’ Antarctic wind chill or slide down a snow slope in the Snow & Ice Experience.

The New Zealand Penguin Encounter is New Zealand’s first combined indoor/outdoor penguin viewing area with capacity to hold up to 26 rescued Little Blue penguins in a Banks Peninsula natural themed environment that can be accessed on two levels.

Tuku Tuk City Tours

Tuk Tuk Tours (pink golf cart like vehicles) will take you on a guided tour of the city’s Architecture, Parks and Gardens such as the famous Christchurch Art Gallery, Arts Centre, Cathedral Square, Mona Vale on the banks of the Avon river, Homes and Gardens, Deans Bush and the centrally located 161 hectare Hagley Park

Christchuch Art Gallery

The spectacular Christchurch Art Gallery is located in the heart of the scenic Cultural Precinct, just a few minutes’ walk from Cathedral Square. Enjoy a range of local and international exhibitions, and browse through one of New Zealand’s largest art collections, including a superb selection of works by Canterbury artists.