| Christchurch
is
a vibrant city with exciting festivals, innovative theatre,
art galleries, great shopping and award winning attractions.
It is the South Island's largest city and is renowned
for its elegant grey stone 19th century buildings, its
lush gardens and tree lined avenues.
This
is New Zealand's 'Garden City'. One hectare in every
three is devoted to public parks and reserves which grace
the city. Among the most elegant flora are those in the
180 hectare Hagley Park, pride of the local Cantabrians.
The 130 year old paradise is the perfect place for a walk
or can be enjoyed from a row boat or perhaps a gentle punt
down the meandering Avon River which runs through the city
centre. Christchurch
was
planned as a Church of England settlement and its founders
intended that it should reflect English society. The town's
flat site allowed for a grid of organised streets bounded
by wide tree lined avenues and the distinctive stamp of
English architecture has survived in its beautiful buildings,
statues, parks and squares.
Christchurch
is also a strong cultural centre. Within easy walking distance
from the city centre, or accessible by tram, is 'West on
Worcester', which comprises the Arts
Centre, the Canterbury Museum and the Robert McDougall Art
Gallery on the edge of Hagley Park. Other popular
Christchurch attractions
include the International Antarctic Centre, African wildlife
at Orana Park, Air Force World, Christchurch Casino and
the Christchurch Gondola.
Not
far from Christchurch,
situated on Banks Peninsula is the village of Akaroa.
Here you can stroll past quaint old buildings on streets
with French names which serve as a reminder of the attempt
at colonialisation by France in 1840. Popular activites
are harbour cruises, water activities and visits to craft
shops and the nearby winery, cheese factory and herb farm.
North
of Christchurch is Hanmer Springs, an alpine spa at the
base of the pristine Amuri mountain range. The picturesque
township contains nearby walks, skiing, bungy jumping,
jetboating and the relaxing thermal pools complex.
Christchurch
is one of the most popular destinations for visitors in
New Zealand. Many short tours are available
into the Canterbury countryside
for activities including skiing, whale watching, bungy jumping
and jet boating.
There
are many places of interest in the city including museums,
an international antarctic centre, excellent botanical
gardens and a casino. The gondola on the Port Hills offers
superb views of Lyttelton Harbour, the Canterbury Plains
and the Southern Alps.
Christchurch
has an active theatrical and cultural life and a wide variety
of restaurants and cafes. |
