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Information on Christchurch

Christchurch is the main city of New Zealands South Island and offers a modern and lively atmosphere, despite having a reputation as the most English and the most conservative of the country’s major cities. Touted as New Zealand’s ‘Garden City’, Christchurch has one-eighth of its area devoted to public parks, reserves, and recreation grounds – with the 186-hectare Hagley Park in its centre

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Key Attractions

One of the premier attractions is the Canterbury Museum, offering an excellent Antarctic display. Afterwards, visit the International Antarctic Centre, where you can experience the icy wind chills of Antarctica and see some amazing wildlife. Also worth seeing is the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu, boasting one of the largest permanent collections in New Zealand. The Christchurch Gondola provides magnificent views westward over the city and the Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps, as well as panoramas of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean all the way up to the Kaikoura Ranges. Orana encompasses 80 hectares and is New Zealands largest wildlife reserve. Simply wandering the pedestrianised centre, passed Cathedral square, along the Avon river and into the serene botanic gardens is rewarding.There is also a tourist tram – authentic old original which travels a loop through the city.

Out and About

The Christchurch area is home to some lovely attractions. Lyttelton Harbour, 15 minutes from the city centre, is where you might see one of the worlds rarest and smallest dolphins, the Hector dolphin. A drive around the Banks Peninsula to the east of Christchurch is an absolute must, ending up in the picturesque former French colony of Akaroa. The area offers quaint fishing villages and breathtaking views. Inland from Christchurch and only an hour from the city are the Southern Alps. Here, the village of Arthurs Pass makes an ideal base for activities ranging from skiing to helicopter tours.

Leisure Options

For an escape, the amazing Botanic Gardens offer a lush 23 hectares of world-renowned foliage, including exotic trees. New Zealand is famous for its adventure and outdoor activities and during the day options are endless. At night, Oxford Terrace, or ‘The Strip’, is the hub of the lively café and bar scene.

Safety

Christchurch has so much to offer in the way of sightseeing and activities that visitors may forget to think about safety. Participating in outdoor activities and driving can put you at risk of an accident. Taking out travel insurance is recommended.

Weather in Christchurch

New Zealand weather is changeable throughout the year. The South Island has lower temperatures and snow falls are common on all the mountains in winter. The west coast receives the most rain and the summer months are from November to April.

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Christchurch Travel Partners & Resources

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Christchurch Accommodation
WhatsOn Christchurch a comprehensive guide to Christchurch hotels, accommodation, restaurants, entertainment, nightlife, shops, travel & transport, medical & health, events and jobs.

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