Christchurch
(population 331.500)Christchurch often referred to as the most English city outside England. The Avon River meanders through this second largest city of New Zealand. Christchurch is blessed with Hagley Park, the impressive Christchurch Cathedral, many galleries, year round many street artists, lots of festivals, good cafes and a variety of restaurants. This city, designed as a model of class structured England in the 19th century, offers a great balance between the historic and the contemporary.
Outdoor
Beaches and surfing
There are some beautiful Beaches at the outskirts of Christchurch. Taylors mistake is a good beach to surf. Waimairi North and the different Brighton Beaches are excellent for swimming, but always be aware of the current.
Canoeing
It is possible to rent a canoe to paddle on the Avon River.
Scenic driving routes
There are several Scenic (Driving) Routes in Christchurch. For more information concerning this you should visit the visitors centre of Christchurch.
Mountainbiking
Christchurch's outskirts are lying on beautiful hills (near the sea). These hills are excellent for mountainbiking. It is possible to hire bikes in the city centre.
Tramping
There are several nice city walks and walks in the outskirts of Christchurch. Examples of walks are: Riverside Walk and Godley Head Walkway. For more information please visit the visitor centre and or DOC.
Culture and Entertainment
Cultural activity
Christchurch Tramway
There is a tramway in Christchurch. This tramway dates from 1905 and after 50 years of not functioning came in function again in recent years. Its function is not the transport but to entertain people; tourists. The tramway makes a 2,5km loop through beautiful parts of Christchurch.
Punting on Avon River
There are punters on the Avon River. It is a nice experience to punt on the (romantic) Avon River. It makes you feel being in Cambridge in England; that on the other side of the world.
Cultural buildings and places
Bridge of Remembrance
The bridge of Remembrance was built to remember those who have passed away in WW1. The bridge is now a symbol for the losses in all wars.
Hagley Park and its Botanic Gardens
This is a very large and beautiful park in Christchurch. The Avon River meanders through it and there are nice Botanic Gardens including a greenhouse. There is also a children playground and cafe. Especially in February (during the Romance Festival) it is impressive to visit this park.
Christchurch Cathedral
This cathedral has been built between 1860 and 1904. The Cathedral was designed by Dir George Gilbert Scot, he was an Englishman.
New Regent Street
This street is full with buildings and houses of Spanish architecture. It is New Zealand's only example of a street built to a single architectural style. New Regent Street has many cafes and specialists shops. The buildings and houses have pastel colors. The street with its buildings and houses has been built in 1932 with H. Francis Willis as the architecture.
Festivals
Flower and Romance Festival
Every annum this festival is being held in February. The gardens are flourishing at their best and romance is hanging in the air. Tip: go to Hagley Park with in particular its beautiful Botanic Gardens.
World Buskers Festival
This is Australasia her largest street festival. Many street performance, theatre and circus acts are being performed. Also comedy plays an important role. This festival takes annually places from mid January till the end of January.
Galleries
Art Gallery
This gallery has a good collection of History and nowadays art. There are some periodical exhibitions as well.
Maori Marae
Nga Hau e Wha
This is New Zealand's largest Marae. It is very interesting to visit; you can see Maori art, their house of learning and even attend a traditional feast of the Maori (hangi).
Ko Tane
This is a smaller Marae compared to Nga Hau e Wha but not disappointing to visit. You will be able to attend the Maori traditional feast, see their art and you can even enjoy their traditional dances.
Museum
Air Force World
Here you will find a collection of classic aircrafts. Emphasize lies on the New Zealand's military aviation History.
Canterbury Museum
This museum has a wonderful collection of items important for New Zealand's (traditional) Society.
Ferrymead Historic Park
This historic park includes a museum about rail transportation.
International Antarctic Centre
This is a huge complex build by the government. Here you will be able to explore the Antarctic the best if not being in Antarctica.
Our City
This museum features interesting facts of Christchurch its History including the History of the church.
Science Alive
This museum changes its exhibition continuously. All exhibitions have science as a topic; very interesting.
Southern Encounter Aquarium and Kiwi House
This aquarium gives the visitor insight of the underwater world. Kiwis are present as well; although they are not that good to see.