Christchurch has been on a steady growth for cultural diversity, change and a cosmopolitan outlook towards its society and the International arena. With beautiful sceneries around its snowy and beach areas, the city has capitalized well on these natural aspects to build the foundation of a multi billion dollar tourism industry. Being the second largest city of the country, Christchurch houses a major chuck New Zealanders together with enough room for traveling personnel!
Being host to a multitude of festivals and events, the city has developed greatly in infrastructure, easy access to facilities and a friendly environment that provides a comf
Christchurch offers family activities across wildlife, science, transport and outdoor recreation. The International Antarctic Centre has immersive Antarctic experiences, penguins and Hägglund rides, while the Christchurch Gondola travels by cable car to the Port Hills summit rather than along the Avon River.
Opened in 2003, the Arts Gallery is a dominant NZ$ 47 building that has set standards for all others in the South Island. Eluding an aesthetic charm, the exterior complements the various high quality art displays inside that range from early European work to the contemporary video work done by New Zealanders. The gallery holds some of the best and larger than life paintings of New Zealand’s renowned artists and has a lot to hold the viewers attention with colors, textures and bold strokes.
This most prominent landmark of Christchurch was completed in 1904 into a dominating grey stone building with a magnificent clock tower. The cathedral holds great historic significance for the city which is visible in its intricate architecture and the creative art work done inside its wall. Tourists find the cathedral a site of major attraction and most of them attend the daily services arranged here. Because of this importance the area around the building is called the Cathedral Square and serves as a starting point for many tours. Location: Cathedral Square Phone: +64 3 366 0046
A gothic stone building, Arts gallery is a show ground for a number of subjects operational in Christchurch such as the crafts market, the produce market and daily exhibitions from over 40 artists in various outlets. The center is famous for quality handicrafts, leather and wood goods and a visit to Ernest Rutherford's den is rated high on the interesting things to do in the Arts Center. Admission is free for all.
With the planting of an English oak tree in 1863, this Botanic Garden was given shape in New Zealand. Today it holds one of the most exotic and rare collection of plant species from within the country as well as abroad. Just the thought of 30 hectare of greenery circled by the Avon River is pleasing and one wants spend a good amount of time exploring this place full of the country’s botanic history. The highlights of the garden are the 120 years old trees that represent one of the sacred horticultural sites of the world. Together with the Hagley Park, New Zealand holds the key to the world second largest inner city park that is one of the most visited as well.
A thorough exploration of the Canterbury Museum is a must. With elaborate sections dedicated to the displays of Maori, Antarctic, Colonial and Natural history sections, the museum is an attraction to kids as well as adults and offers very interesting material to look at from vintage cars to historic personalities to the entire iced world of the Antarctic. Timing: Winter times: 9am to 5pm & Summer times: 9am to 5 30pm. Location: Rolleston Avenue Phone: 03/366-5000
Formerly known as the Aquarium of Discovery, the Southern Encounter Aquarium is a walk through of tanks of aquarium with rare fishes and sea creatures. Documentaries and films are aired for viewers to educate them about sea and bird life. The attraction offers various things to do including watching feeding time at the aquarium, see fly-tying demonstrations, getting your hands wet in touch tank and observation of nocturnal brown kiwis.
Get a feeling of the native New Zealand forestry in the Riccarton Bush, probably the last of the remains of the Canterbury forests. Take a walk along the lush green shrubs and tall trees and enjoy the quite serene beauty of the place one fine day along the circular track that will take you around the mini forest. Located adjacent to the forest is the Dean’s Cottage that is the oldest built house in Christchurch (1843) and is for historic purposes only.
Experience the Antarctic way of life in Christchurch at the International Antarctic center. Fulfill your dream of getting on a snow mobile and racing across snow land here at the center which is fully acclimatized to the polar weather conditions. Inside you will find penguins, leopard seals, snow caves and a depiction of how life is at the Antarctic. The 4D cinema will take you on a thrilling icy adventure of one of its kind. The Antarctic Hagglund Ride is a new addition which gives a 15minutes tour of the place and is very famous with children.
Alfred Thornhill Cooper and Marion Cooper are to be credited for this amazing collection of vintage cars in the Yaldhurst Museum. Opened on 26th December 1968, the museum has a collection 400 cars ranging from passenger to school buses to the rare models that had not more than 5 units manufactured! If you are an automobile fanatic, the Yaldhurst Museum will be your favorite attraction in all of Christchurch. Currently it is run by Grant Cooper, great grandson of the founder and is established in an 1876 colonial homestead.
Canterbury Tales is known to serve its diners with the best of everything. From pleasant atmospheres to great food and award winning edible pieces of art, the restaurant is a model of perfection from every angle. With a meal for over NZ$ 50, diners get an opportunity to try various blends of spices on the ever changing menu and to taste the best of New Zealand from the best providers.
Tastefully decorated on traditional Spanish crockery are New Zealand’s most divine Spanish dishes prepared under the watchful eye of Pedro Carazo. For 30 years, Pedro has maintained his restaurant as a comfortable retreat for diners who enjoy the chatter in the air and the delicious food together with the owner’s hospitality. Sea food is the specialty here topped with lots of seasonings and garlic.
An attentive service, an ambient place and a superb menu are what Pescatore prides itself on to attract valuable customers who are regulars at the restaurant. Pescatore offers a 10 course menu with the most elaborate food settings and tastes unmatchable in all of Christchurch along with an expensive wine lists.
Let yourself be spoiled by the most hospitable service, tasteful food and a very impressive wine list, all from the gifted chef and owner of Rotherams. Visited by most locals on very special occasions, this gem of a restaurant offers nothing second best from its well selected ingredients to the artful presentation of its meals and the memorably romantic time diners spend here.
An organic restaurant in Christchurch, Aiki rates very highly among New Zealanders when it comes to fine dinning with an experience. Organic meat and vegetable recipes line the fine menu that is presented and served impeccably. Interior of the place is authentic Japanese to compliment its famous banquet starting from NZ$50 with the best variety of Japanese food in all of New Zealand. Sip an expensive organic wine along with your meal and be assured of satisfaction.
The hustle bustle inside this small but high class restaurant is duly credited to the musical and dancing shows that it holds in its premises. Along with food and wine, enjoy entertainment offered by the young and hyper crowds gathered here for a fun night with friends and family. Experiment with the meals and try your luck with the singing competition.
Climb up the Port Hills to discover this hidden grey stone castle now turned into a prestigious restaurant. Sign of Takahe has a history behind its four walls and is a mixture of modernity and symbolic centralism. With political and other important personnel as guests, the restaurant has its own protocol atop a tiny hill.
The only Burmese restaurant in all of New Zealand, Bodhi Tree creates quite a stir in the locals and tourists for its spicy and unique dishes that are seasoned with exotic herbs bound to tingle your taste buds. Meals are served in small servings that ooze specialty and dare you to order more and more. Because of its demand, there is always a crowd waiting to be seated at the Bodhi Tree so remember to make reservations to enjoy these traditions from Burma.
The spiciest food in all of Christchurch with the biggest selection of tequila in all of New Zealand is housed inside this small den. Mexican herbs and spices are generously used in the meals that will quite certainly make one ooze out smoke! Though the interior is too extravagant, Flying Burrito Brothers has a very loyal clientele that stops by every now and then for a drink and a hot spicy meal on an adventurous day. Main course meals may go up to NZ$40.
Taste a fine blend of New Zealand’s specialties at the JDV where the chef is notoriously known for his favorite spice and herb blends. Be ready to be surprised by the unexpected flavor mixes that taste all too good to be true. The aura here is as eccentric as the chef’s combinations but the place will welcome you warmly and ensure that you have a good time.
Built along the ancient European architecture, The Elm Tree House is arguably the coziest and warmest accommodation in all of Christchurch. The place has a total of 6 suits that are all decorated in warm colors and are very spacious. Equipped with TV, hair dryer and internet, Elm tree has a perfect location to access the near by golf course, tennis court and many cafes and restaurants.
Experience the best of both, the Colonial Era as well as the contemporary living styles at The Heritage. With a Government style building adjacent to a tall tower, Heritage is a high class accommodation in Christchurch with 175 room units, each with special lounges, walk in closets and all basic amenities included. Located in the Inner city, the hotel is close to all major attractions with tons of in house facilities to enjoy. Suite and deluxe rates vary between NZ$ 210 to NZ$ 475.
If the grand presence of its architectural beauty and its central location fails to impress you, credit Crowne Plaza with its continuous efforts to ‘Go Green’ with water and electricity conservation in the Garden City. The hotel is a number one luxurious stay in Christchurch with 298 units all well maintained and classy with elaborate furnishings and beautiful city views from the windows. Room rates go up to NZ$500. Additional facilities: restaurants, free bikes, cafes, concierge, gym, golf course and Wi Fi.
A lovely two story house located peacefully in the residential area of the city, Hadleigh is the brain child of New Zealand’s Porsche racing champion, Jon Warring. With 4 warmly decorated suites, this lodging is a home away from home that extends gracious hospitality and heart warming service. Room rates go up to NZ$500.
A high class airport facility, Peppers Clearwater is a resort spread across 465 Acers of land lovely rooms overlooking the sea. A combination of suites and apartments are housed in the grand lodging that offers great value for the variety of services offered. Laze in one of the spacious terraces or challenge a friend to a game of golf, Clearwater resort plans to offer many more amenities that are underway. Room rates start from NZ$236. Additional facilities: golf course, spa, restaurant, bike rentals, fishing guide and lessons and tennis court.
A pampered stay by all means, Weston House offers its guests a bundle of extras that take guests to cloud 9. From walk in closets and private lounges to heated bathroom floors, the 2 bedroom Georgian style house is has an irresistible splendor. It is situated close to the Hagley Park and is walking distance from nearby attractions. Room rates may go up to NZ$450.
A Victorian school turned boutique hotel, Charlotte Jane offers nothing less than perfection. With a total of 14 units, this hotel makes up for its small size through exceptional service, elaborately decorated rooms and expensive extras such as huge attached bathrooms with Jacuzzis, spacious rooms and a scrumptious menu for meal times. The Henderson House is an extension to the Charlotte Jane to provide more room for mobility for guests. All rooms are equipped with amenities like TV, VCR, minibar, kitchen and hairdryer. Additional facilities: restaurant, bar, concierge and nearby golf course. Room rates start from NZ$515.
One of the best value hotels in the city, Orari B&B is located across Montreal Street near North Hagley Park. The big old house lives up to the expectations of the impeccable area with clean and spacious rooms, fully equipped with AC, hair dryer and Wi Fi. The original wooden interior of this 1893 villa have been restored and add a very appealing charm for guests. Room rates start from NZ$ 160 and include a scrumptious breakfast. Closing season: June & July. Location: 42 Gloucester Street Phone: 03/365-6569 Fax: 03/365-2525
Located close to the Hagley Park, Merivale Mall and a few boutique shops, Heartland Hotel is built on English architecture and offers a delightful stay for guests who wish to stay close to city life. The hotel offers a variety of rooms and packages to choose from and provides amenities for business travelers along with vacationing families and couples.
A small, cozy and inviting B&B awaits you at Christchurch. Coastal Cliffs has been designed by architect and owner Rick, overlooking the McCormack’s bay and everything about the place oozes naturalness and pure beauty. Each of the rooms is spacious, warmly decorated and includes amenities like DVD, TV, fridge, hair dryer and kitchenette. There are separate entrances to each room rates of which start from NZ$180 including a hearty serving of home made breakfast. Additional facilities: Tennis court and heated pool.
The beauty of the Garden City is that every time of the year is the best time to visit! All seasons in Christchurch are pleasant and have attractions of their own that lure tourists from around the world. Therefore, be it the summer season during December, January and February or the blossoming spring aura (September, October and November), temperatures in the city are bearable compared to harsh European climates. Tourists can find many ways to entertain themselves and keep busy all day.
Location:: Christchurch is the largest city in the Southern Island of New Zealand. Located one third of the way down the east coast, it is the second largest urban city of the country that enjoys a view of the sunny beaches as well as the snowy ski resorts. To the south of the city is the Bank Peninsula.; Dialing codes:: International dialing code: +64 ; area code: 3; Emergency numbers:: Police, ambulance and firefighters: 111
New Zealand observes national public holidays and regional anniversary days. These include Waitangi Day, ANZAC Day, King’s Birthday, Matariki, Labour Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, as well as New Year and Easter holidays.
Min Temp °Ϲ Max Temp °Ϲ January 12 23 February 12 22 March 10 20 April 7 17 May 4 14 June 6 11 July 1 11 August 2 12 September 4 14 October 6 17 November 9 19 December 11 21
Christchurch has been on a steady growth for cultural diversity, change and a cosmopolitan outlook towards its society and the International arena. With beautiful sceneries around its snowy and beach areas, the city has capitalized well on these natural aspects to build the foundation of a multi billion dollar tourism industry. Being the second largest city of the country, Christchurch houses a major chuck New Zealanders together with enough room for traveling personnel! Being host to a multitude of festivals and events, the city has developed greatly in infrastructure, easy access to facilities and a friendly environment that provides a comfortable stay for foreigners. Christchurch has risen above others as a hub for education and academic transfers in the Asian Market. Students from all over the continent chose this city over others for undergraduates and masters degrees and for the escalating job opportunities that the economy offers particularly in electronics and software development.
Christchurch’s name was coined on 27th March 1848 by John Robert Godley who named it after one of the constituent colleges of Oxford University in the first meeting of the Canterbury Province. It was elevated to the status of the oldest established city of New Zealand on 31st July 1856 after the early inhabitants of the Ngai Tahu were driven out by the European settlers.
People in New Zealand can be categorized into various ethnicities because of the friendly diversity that the country is exposed to. A major chunk of the population is called New Zealand European which comprises about 74.5% of the total following which are the Maori with 9.7% share. Other European, Pacific Islander Asian and others make up 4.6%, 3.8% and 7.4% respectively. New Zealanders are nature loving people who indulge greatly in peaceful outings and picnics. According to one writer, the “Kiwis are open people who like to impress visitors and make them have a good time”. People in Christchurch are very helpful and extend assistance to strangers without even being asked for it. They are polite and caring even though one might think of them as reserved initially. With nil discrimination by class or wealth, Kiwis are part of a very egalitarian culture that makes Christchurch a very easy pick for a long vacation.
Wrapping up the whole of Christchurch in a day’s trip is quite impossible because much of the beauty and history of the city yearns to be explored. However, if a day is all you have here’s Irhal.com’s list of the most important sites you must visit in order to say you’ve truly done the city of Christchurch:
Christchurch offers family activities across wildlife, science, transport and outdoor recreation. The International Antarctic Centre has immersive Antarctic experiences, penguins and Hägglund rides, while the Christchurch Gondola travels by cable car to the Port Hills summit rather than along the Avon River.
A classy and upbeat apparel store, the Untouched World is full of glamour and stylish clothes especially top of the line woolen and sports gear. The outlet prides itself for being a green organization and one that believes in sustainable development. The philosophy of being fashionable without harming the planet is depicted in the high quality clothing and the awards and recognitions that the store has won over the years.
The Wild South Clothing culture is hard to go unnoticed. Raw fashion and wild beauty are the pillars that the store stands on and the collection of clothing lines are proof enough for this philosophy. Dedicated to developing clothes that best suit the New Zealanders, Wild South is a much wanted apparel king in the country and offers stylish and fashionable clothes for the hip crowd. A good place to buy expensive but quality clothing.
A haven for travelers and adventurous people, the Map World is full of accessories and necessities that travelers should have to find their way across New Zealand and Christchurch. At this high end store you will find everything from binoculars, compasses, sports watches and rental equipment to all kinds of high tech regular and digital maps. With the high tourist influx in the country, the Map World is an asset for backpackers who wish to explore the city on their terms.
Decodence is an art deco shop on High Street in Christchurch. Most of the visitors here either have a special interest in art and decorative items or just enter the shop for the sake of exploring. Either way, decadence doesn’t fail to impress the shopper. With dozens and dozens of artifacts displayed in the shop, anyone with doubts for New Zealand’s creativity is hit in the face. From vases, clocks and pottery items to painted jewelry boxes, all is showcased at Decodence.
One of the leading jewelry designers in Christchurch, Koji Miyazaki, runs this lavish store on High Street. The contemporary jewelry available here is tasteful, unique and has the most stylish cuts and designs in all of New Zealand. Inform carries the credibility of its owner who has held various displays in the Art Center as well to promote the country’s image as a fashion hub. Visit the store to take in the posh aura and fame of the designer. Location: 158 High Street Phone: 03/366-3893
No other New Zealander has better knowledge of antiquity and vintage histories than Barry Holliday, running a grandfathered business of Edwardian and Victorian furniture. Barry himself has mastered the art of antique style and design with his extensive European tours and his arts education. Therefore, one step in the Holliday’s shop and you find exquisite pieces of furniture that Barry has handpicked throughout his multiple cultural tours abroad.
In business for 45 years, the Wayne Wright Antiques shop can leave a shopper speechless at the deep of the collection of European and French furniture here. The owners travel extensively and collect antiques from all over Europe including Spain, Italy, England and France. Their collection includes French doors, drawer chests, garden antiques, wall panels and shutters to name a few. Step in here to feel the French and English history on its height.
Along the length of High Street, pick out Chaos from a multitude of shops for antiques and second hand decorative items. Chaos holds a number of collections ranging from interior decoration to personal favorites such as china dolls and miniatures. To cater to the kids, the shop also keeps collectables of action figures and magic trading cards in extensive variety. Take your pick out of the second hand collection as a memorable souvenir from your visit to Christchurch.
A department store with welcoming service and quality merchandise is what Ballantyne prides itself on. With several locations across the city, this department store is one of the biggest in terms of assortment and size. For anything hat you need from house hold everyday items to personal hygiene and beauty products, this store is a convenient and affordable place to shop.
If you are a big fan of costume and artificial jewelry, One Big Sugar Bowl will appeal to your tastes immensely. Extravagant displays of colored, gemmed, stoned and polished rings, necklaces, bangles and hair accessories line the shelves sparkling and glittering. A few favorites include classical clothing, leather bags, gemmed broaches and designer collections of earrings. A must visit for you to travel in style.
The most extensive collection of kiwi birds is found at the Willowbank reserve in Christchurch. On a much smaller scale than the Onara, the Williowbank breeds most of the local animal population of the country especially kiwis. Extended tours for kiwi life and breeding are arranged for tourists who are allowed to play, feed and pet the birds as well. Multiple school programs and skits are also arranged to depict the cultural practices of the Maori tribe.
One of the most fun filled, free of cost entertainments in the city is the Buskers festival that takes place at various venues including Cathedral square, Buskers Park, Botanical Gardens and Peacock Foundation. The festival comprises of street dancers, jugglers, one wheel cyclists, jokers and clowns who together put up exciting performances in juggling, stand up comedy, acrobatics and contortionism.
One of the leading sporting events of the calendar, the PGA championship is renowned across the country and holds a prize worth US$650,000. The championship is scheduled over four days and includes practice sessions as well the final day games at the Clearwater Golf course in Christchurch. If you’re not in town for the championship the Clearwater Golf course is itself is a beautiful site to spend a day at.
Very popular among teenagers and adults alike, the event gains most of its popularity with the presence of world renowned kite flyers at the venue. Kites of various sizes and shapes are displayed together with flying demonstrations that keep people captivated. The Kite Day is celebrated at the Brighton Beach and is free for all to drop by.
Living up to the city’s reputation as the Garden City, the Flower Festival is a one of its kind in the continent. The celebration is dedicated to all gardens, parks, flowers and anything that is floral! The entire city is decorated with flowers (like it lacked greenery anyway!) and locals indulge in various activities such as storytelling in parks, tree climbing competitions, garden tours, photography and some entertainment with food and music. The highlight of the day is the 20m ‘flower carpet’ in the center of the Cathedral that is decorated according to the theme set for the festival.
It is party time in Christchurch in mid-February. A day long Picnic held in the north of Hagley Park, this event is particularly famous for children who watch bears perform tricks, listen to stories, go on rides, attend stages comedies together with magic and puppetry shows. Perhaps the biggest event for kids, Teddy Bears Picnic is enjoyed by all as an outdoor festival and a part of Christchurch’s Summer Times activities.
Christchurch sightseeing can combine the central city’s gardens, heritage buildings and cultural attractions with trips towards the Port Hills and Lyttelton Harbour. Operators offer different routes rather than a universal half-day itinerary. The heritage Christchurch Tram is one current city-centre option, offering hop-on, hop-off travel on restored trams.
Hot-air ballooning over the Canterbury Plains offers views towards the Southern Alps and surrounding rural landscapes. Tourism New Zealand’s operator directory lists Ballooning Canterbury near Hororata as a current provider, with Christchurch transfers available. Flights depend on weather; departure arrangements and the fare belong to the chosen operator and date.
Tram ride offers a very exciting tour of Christchurch, especially the city center. The open tram lets tourists observe natural environment and get a feeling of the Garden City. If you are with family and want to explore the city at your own pace, the hop on hop off tour is the best you can get. The tram pass lasts up to 48 hours on a stretch so you can hop off and take your time around an attraction, eat and freshen up before continuing the tour that would take you around the Cathedral Square, Arts Center, Botanical Gardens, Avon River and Cathedral Junction. The tram ride starts from 9am and the tour as a whole is for about 25minutes and costs $13 for a two day tram pass.
A very famous sightseeing tour, the Big Five takes you round the city in one day and covers major areas that are to be visited at least once. The tour starts with an engaging visit to the Antarctic Center, an exciting view of native kiwis and their habitat in the Willow Wildlife Park, an adventurous ride of the tram to see the city center and its busy life, a panoramic view of the gardens of the city on a Gondola and finally a two hour harbor cruise to see surrounding lands. The tour departs at 9am in the morning and lasts for about 7 hours and costs $ 166 per person.
A gradual progression from the city center highlights like the Cathedral Square, Victoria Street, Arts Center and Botanical Gardens to the northern parks and plains of Christchurch is the highlight of this exploration trip of the city. The tour takes you around the Hagley Park and Mona Vale homestead to a superb view of the beaches and the city from the Port hills. This well rounded tour will bring you back to the city from the eastern side so no corner of the city is unturned for tourists.
This tour covers both, the best entertainment of the city and the educational aspect as well. A half day trip to the Kiwi resorts of the Willowbank wild life reserve and the Antarctic Center gives tourists a chance to enjoy the notorious snowmobile ride and get an up close of the Kiwi world as well. Tour starts at 3pm for a cost of $145 and lasts 5 and a half hour.
Being the garden city of New Zealand, Christchurch has one eighth of its land dedicated to parks and landscapes. To explore these landscapes hop on a half day tour of two public and two private parks of the city for 3 hours and enjoy a day with nature. The tour includes descriptions of the flowers and shrubs in the park and their historic significance. Tour starts at 9am and costs $80.
Spend one of your mornings on an air conditioned coach en route to the historical Christchurch attractions. This three hour tour gives you an exciting tour early morning with loads of opportunities to take pictures of the monuments and make your trip memorable. The main stops include those in the city center.
Riding a bicycle is a popular way to commute around the city and its suburbs. New Zealanders like to enjoy light modes of transport because the city’s beauty is too attractive to be missed out on! Rent a bicycle to enjoy the greenery and calm environment of the residential areas while you cycle your way through the important sites and monuments. Special cycling paths have also been made on main roads, Hagley Park and along the Avon River side to ensure riders can drive smoothly while they explore the city’s beauty.
In Christchurch, buses leave major stops very frequently except on weekends when only one or two buses serve each station. Most of the business and commercial people travel through buses because of their extensive and intricate networks and frequency of arrival and departure. As part of the ‘total mobility plan’ of New Zealand, the bus service has recently been revamped to ensure timely and comfortable transport. Bus fare starts from NZ$ 2.9.
The Christchurch tramway runs in much smaller circles around the city. Its purpose is more to entertain the tourists visiting Christchurch who like to commute short distances in a tram for an experience and to see the city’s natural beauty. With a ticket of NZ$ 12.5, tourist chose to explore the city center by ‘vintage’ tram that goes around some historic sites and the most famous eateries in the city center. One such trip takes 25 minutes with frequent stops at anyone of the 11 stations and offers everything from experience to exploration and to a Tram Restaurant for elaborate lunches and dinners!
Hiring a car for family outings or adventures is probably the best option to get around Christchurch. Since the city houses both beaches and ski resorts, long commutes can easily be covered with a rented car with the help of the grid system that makes finding routes easy. If you wish to roam the city at your own will and time, rent a car with one of the following companies.