CHRISTCHURCH
CHRISTCHURCH
Christchurch Airport International Antarctic Centre
Hagley Park Botanic Gardens
Arts Centre
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Riverside Market Cardboard Cathedral
Avon River
Blending vibrant urban life with culture and history
This revitalised city , which is the third largest in New Zealand , welcomes with wide open spaces , modern architecture and heritage buildings , not to mention a diverse natural playground .
Christchurch has a long hitlist of attractions within the evolving city limits and surrounds , and to see its best sights , we recommend hopping on a tram . Beautifully restored heritage tramcars trundle through the city allowing you to access numerous points of interest from 18 stops .
Another great way to see the city is from up high , namely the Christchurch Gondola , which whisks you to the summit station where your reward is spectacular panoramic views of the city , Lyttleton Harbour , the Pacific Ocean and beyond . Alternatively , drift along the Avon River on an Edwardian-style punt tour , taking in the stunning scenery of the Botanic Gardens as you slowly travel .
Other attractions not to be missed include the Christchurch Transitional “ Cardboard ” Cathedral . This is one of the first new buildings to be constructed after the 2011 earthquakes and has become an icon of the city . The Riverside Market is another great rebuilding success and home to the city ’ s best food stalls , the Arts Centre is a must-see for culture vultures , the International Antarctic Centre showcases what life is like on the icy wastelands and you can check out the pastel-coloured buildings of New Regent Street which house an eclectic assortment of shops and cafés .
Walking and hiking trails surround the city , as do an array of beautiful beaches , including Sumner , Scarborough and New Brighton . Slightly further afield , discover Kaikoura , famed for its amazing variety of marine and birdlife along its dramatic rugged coastline , while Akaroa is a unique blend of French heritage and New Zealand natural beauty .
Getting there : Christchurch is about 23½ hours flight time from the UK with a stopover .
Best time to go : With long warm days in summer , vibrant colours in autumn , crisp clear days in winter and acres of beautiful blossoms in spring , Christchurch is a destination for all seasons .
Christchurch Gondola
1 Rydges Latimer Christchurch & Rendezvous Heritage Christchurch
2 Crowne Plaza Christchurch , an IHG Hotel
3 Sudima Christchurch City & The Mayfair 4 The George
UNMISSABLE CHRISTCHURCH EXPERIENCES Get more out of your stay . Prices are per person
PUNTING ON THE AVON from £ 23
Board a classic wooden punt for a guided 30 minute tour that quietly takes you past trailing willows , woodlands and leafy banks as you absorb Christchurch ’ s Botanic Gardens or redeveloping centre . A must-do in Christchurch .
TRAM PASS & GONDOLA COMBO from £ 41
Enjoy a journey in style through the changing face of Christchurch ’ s city centre on board a heritage tram . The friendly and knowledgeable drivers will inform you about the city , its landmarks and local sights . Later , soar skywards on a Gondola ride for unique 360 degree views .
CITY MEANDER CULTURAL FOOD TOUR from £ 77
On this two hour tour , explore the inner city on foot , experiencing culture and tastings along the way . Sample some iconic kiwi flavours and hear stories from locals .
TRAMWAY RESTAURANT 4 COURSE DINNER from £ 99
Experience a unique way to view Christchurch inner city while feasting on a delicious dinner on board a colonial-style dining tram . Be treated to the finest service and cuisine as you travel around the city .
AKAROA TOUR WITH HARBOUR CRUISE from £ 131
Depart Christchurch for a full day tour taking in the French-inspired village of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula . Then cruise Akaroa Harbour to view dolphins , penguins and seals . Return via Birdling Flat on the Kaitorete Spit for commanding views .
KAIKOURA WHALE WATCH from £ 183
Travel through the rolling hill country of North Canterbury , enjoying the beauty of its rural scenes , to Kaikoura where mountains meet the sea . Embark on a whale watch tour and in the afternoon , visit a seal colony where fur seals may be viewed at close quarters . En route back to Christchurch , a stop is made at a vineyard for some wine tasting .
130 NEW ZEALAND visit your local travel agent or call 08444 937 900