Christchurch, the capital of Canterbury, and largest city of the South Island, is arguably the most beautiful and certainly the most English style city in New Zealand.

Built on the banks of the Avon River, the city is also known as the ‘Garden City’ due to its beautiful parks and gardens, the most notable of which is the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. With a population of roughly 350,000 people, this is the second largest city in New Zealand with most of the city centered around Cathedral Square.

Sights and Attractions

Most people who travel to Christchurch start at Cathedral Square and just walking around and exploring the city could be the best way to get the most out of your time in Christchurch, however if you’re after more direction you could try some of these….

Botanic Gardens

Some claim these to be the most beautiful botanic gardens in the world, the gardens are also home to the Canterbury Museum and Art Gallery.

Christchurch Cathedral

The main square of town and the heart of the city is Cathedral Square, taking it’s name from Christchurch Cathedral on the edge of the square. Finished in 1904 you can climb the steps up the tower for views over the square and the city.

Christchurch Casino

Christchurch Casino has restaurants and bars along with the regular gaming, slots and tables.

Ferrymead Historic Park

Ferrymead Historic Park is like take a journey back in time, the 100 acre grounds are filled with restored vehicles, buildings and machinery.

Mt Cavendish Gondola

Take the enclosed gondola up Mt Cavendish for great views over the whole region.

Punting on the Avon

A great way to spend a lazy and perhaps romantic half hour of so is to take a guided punting tour on the Avon River.

September 11 Monument

This monument was arranged by renowned New Zealand artist Graham Bennett after and was taken from the World Trade Center Towers in New York. What was originally part of the 102nd floor of tower two was gifted to the Christchurch Fire-fighters Association by the City of New York and the Monument was unveiled at 2002 World Fire Fighting Games.

Sports

New Zealand is a sport-crazy country and whether you’re into watching or participating, there are plenty of options in Christchurch

Rugby

Christchurch is the home of the Canterbury Crusaders Super 14 rugby team.

Mountain Biking

You can hire a bike and ride through the huge Hagley Park, close to the city center and great for an active day outdoors. The park is also the home of New Zealand Cricket.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Mt Hutt ski fields are close to the city and open during the winter for a great day or more of skiing or snowboarding

• Christchurch Airport