With a population of just over 340,000 people, Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand. Known as the Garden City, Christchurch is a place that inspires, excites, delights and wows. Whether you are travelling to Christchurch on business or on a romantic getaway, there is something for everyone.
Things to Do
What’s your flavour? Is it visiting a winery and tasting some of our world-class wines? Perhaps its shopping, or wandering around the beautiful Botanic Gardens. Maybe you’d like to head out to Akaroa and take a wildlife cruise and get up close and personal with dolphins and seals. Perhaps you’d like a day to rejuvenate and be pampered at a day spa, or head along to the Christchurch CBD and visit the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial.
Punting on the Avon
One of Christchurch’s most iconic activities, what is more romantic than floating down the beautiful tree-lined Avon River with a blanket, a glass of wine and your loved one?
Ride the Gondolas
Climb aboard the Christchurch Gondola and gently ride the cable car some 500 metres up the Port Hills. Romantic sprawling views can be seen from your cable car, taking in Christchurch City and the surrounding vistas. At the top, enjoy a coffee at the Red Rock Café.
Tour the Tannery
For something a little different, head along to the The Tannery – a unique shopping mall combining boutique stores with live music and fine dining. Why not enjoy an award-winning beer or wood-fired pizza at Cassels & Sons Brewery, watch a live music show by Blue Smoke, or watch an independent film at Alice’s Deluxe Cinemas.
Visit an Art Gallery
There are a range of unique art galleries to choose from in Christchurch. Check out the opening nights for the Chambers 241, The National, Jonathan Smart Gallery or City Art Depot and enjoy complimentary wine and cheese. Or head along to the public Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu which is open daily.
Wander the Botanic Gardens
No visit to Christchurch would be complete without visiting the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. These beautiful gardens include meandering paths, beautiful rose gardens, tropical plants, and cute little bridges. Stop at the Ilex Cafe for a hot coffee to take along your stroll, or for a break after touring the gardens.
Experience a Cultural Performance
Watch the South Island’s only Maori cultural performance and join in a hangi experience at Ko Tane. This fun and informative experience is held at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve and is a unique look into the history of the Maori people, their culture and traditions.
Play a Round of Golf
With more than 30 golf courses and clubs in and around Christchurch, the possibilities for golfing are endless. For some serious golf, visit the Clearwater Golf Club – a proven venue for international professional golf. Closer to home, the Russley Golf Club is just a 6 minute drive from Fendalton Park, and the Hagley Golf Club is just an 11 minute drive from Fendalton Park.
Take a Walk down Stranges Lane
Reminiscent of the old Poplar Lane lost due to the Canterbury Earthquakes, the recently opened Stranges Lane features 3 restaurant/bars clustered around a quirky outdoor space in Central Christchurch City. Well sheltered with more than 20 gas heaters, Stranges Lane is a great place to enjoy a social gathering over a pint of beer or a glass of wine.