Christchurch is the largest city on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. Located on the edge of the Canterbury plains, Christchurch is also a major stepping off point for travellers touring the South Island. Mountains, ocean beaches, rivers, lakes and wide open spaces can all be found less than an hour from the city centre. Internationally famed as 'The Garden City', one-eighth of Christchurch is devoted to charming public parks, reserves and recreation grounds.
Christchurch cruises disembark at the seaport town of Lyttelton. The port is 12kms away from Christchurch and can be reached by car or bus.
Sights to See
Close to the port, the town of Lyttelton has a range of national parks and adventure activities on offer including mountain biking and hang-gliding. For a more leisurely day, catch a bus into Christchurch and explore the town's numerous parks and Botanical Gardens. You can see the city by tram, wander through the hidden laneways or spend the day getting up close and personal with New Zealand's wildlife at Orana Wildlife Park. Want to see it all? Take a tour of Christchurch…
What's for Lunch
Lichfield Lanes in the city's south is a wonderful place to explore, grab a coffee and watch the world go by. The trendy lane area not only has a wide range of cafes, restaurants and bars to choose from, but will also give you a taste of Christchurch's metropolitan lifestyle.
If you see only one thing...
Take a picturesque punt boat ride down the Avon River and enjoy the garden views.
Local speak
Though English is the main language of New Zealand, you may want to learn some native Maori phrases such as kia ora which means hello or g'day.
Memento
For a unique Christchurch souvenir, head to the Arts Centre where markets sell one of a kind paintings and woollen garments, which are made on the premises