Filled to the brim with glorious scenery, historical splendour and a vibrant, contemporary culture, the Garden City’s star continues to burn brightly .
Famed for its award-winning Botanic...
Christchurch
Filled to the brim with glorious scenery, historical splendour and a vibrant, contemporary culture, the Garden City’s star continues to burn brightly .
Famed for its award-winning Botanic Gardens, rugged coastline and surrounding bays, Christchurch is a must-do for visitors coming to New Zealand in search of beauty and adventure. Evidence of New Zealand’s ancient volcanic past can be found not far from the centre of town in stunning Akaroa Bay on the Banks Peninsula, while Lyttelton Bay, nestled right beside the city itself also offers spectacular outlooks and a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand’s diverse culture and history.
The South Island’s largest city has emerged triumphant in recent times, shaking off its mantle as a city under natural siege and emerging as a hub for creative shopping and dining experiences. Unique shopping precincts offer visitors a range of eclectic, modern and premium clothing brands combined with plenty of options to rest weary feet and take in a brew or two. A visit to the Canterbury Region also wouldn’t be complete without ducking your head into at a local market; stop off at the Christchurch Farmer’s Market and indulge in locally sourced treats while chatting with an artisan producer.
With Virgin Australia offering a range of great value fares between Australia and New Zealand, there has never been a better time to embrace your inner wanderlust. Book a trip to Christchurch now and experience all that this beautifully unique and resilient city has to offer.
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Time Zone
GMT +12
Currency
New Zealand dollar (NZD)
Area
452 km2
Electricity
220 – 240v 50Hz
Population
Approx 381,000
Languages
English (official)
Dining
Capitalising on the abundant range of naturally available produce in the Canterbury region, Christchurch offers up an array of world-class casual and formal dining options.
The café scene. Coffee lovers will rejoice at the range of options available as the city’s café culture continues to thrive. Many venues offer up excellent quality coffee made from ethically sourced coffee beans and paired with tasty treats or light meals.
Something more substantial . The city centre of Christchurch has a diverse range of dining options, with many focusing their efforts on the sensational local produce and seasonal riches this region has to offer. Surrounding suburbs like Sydenham, Addington and Merivale are also known for their thriving foodie cultures.
Dining adventures. Take a tour of the sensational Selwyn region and taste local award-winning wines and local artisan produce or stop of for a more substantial bite at one of the area’s famed cafes and restaurants. The North Canterbury region provides plenty of day-trip opportunities; make the journey north to enjoy a Pinot Noir, Chardonnay or Riesling that the area is famous for. Or perhaps take a few days out of your itinerary and wake up to spectacular views before you work your way around the many cellar doors, restaurants and local produce tasting options.
Shopping
For those in need of a break from the awe-inspiring beauty that Christchurch is famous for, why not head out for a little adventure to one of the city’s many shopping precincts.
The Tannery. Located on the banks of the Heathcote River and boasting stunning architecture that hints at its modest industrial beginnings, The Tannery is a boutique shopping emporium offering a range of independently owned stores which combine the modern with the quirky. This creative hub is also home to some great dining and entertainment options where shoppers can enjoy delicious wood-fire pizzas, nationally famous burgers or take in some great local and international music acts.
The Columbo. Combining European chic with local design talent, The Columbo has emerged as a uniquely fashionable retail, dining and entertainment precinct for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy a meal or refreshment break at one of the many European-influenced dining options or for those with a little more time, the centre also features the Academy Gold Cinema showcasing the latest in art house films.
New Regent Street. Dubbed New Zealand’s most beautiful street, New Regent Street offers a boutique shopping experience where shoppers can also enjoy a coffee or sip on a cocktail while you appreciate the street’s beautifully restored heritage buildings.
Westfield Riccarton. If you’re looking for the comfort of a Westfield away from home, then the spacious plaza at Riccarton has you covered. Located seven minutes drive from the CBD, this retail giant offers everything from clothes to home wares and souvenirs to groceries under the one roof.
Christchurch Farmer’s Markets. For a true Christchurch experience, spend a morning perusing the Christchurch Famers Markets. Held every Saturday morning, in the shadows on the charming Edwardian-style Riccarton House, the markets brim with lane ways of makeshift stalls, selling everything from artisan breads to delectable cheeses and gourmet cupcakes.
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