New Zealand

1-888-345-4669

Christchurch city is located midway down the East Coast of the South Island, just north of Banks Peninsula.

Christchurch is the South Island's largest city. It's a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping and award-winning attractions.

In the centre of the city you can't help but notice Christchurch Cathedral, an outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture. You can climb up to the spire for a bird's-eye view of the city and, while there, examine the cathedral bells at close hand. Other grey-stone nineteenth century buildings, tree-lined avenues and extensive leafy parks give the city an elegant, rather English atmosphere.

Other central city attractions include the beautiful Neo-Gothic Arts Centre, the historic tram which loops the city centre, the Christchurch Gondola and the International Antarctic Centre. Christchurch is also a great place to go shopping - look for Ballantynes, New Zealand's oldest department store.

Expect a high standard of cuisine wherever you go - restaurants and cafes make the most of the region's delicacies and local wines. Before or after lunch, take a leisurely journey down the Avon River in a punt.

Known internationally for its award winning gardens, Christchurch is also a place for events and festivals. Whatever the season, you'll find a non-stop programme of entertainment with events like the Festival of Romance, the International Buskers Festival, Winter carnival, and Showtime Canterbury.

Christchurch — the South Island's largest city and provincial city for Canterbury

Lyttelton — main Banks Peninsula town and port of Christchurch

RETURN TO SOUTH ISLAND REGION