After devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, Christchurch is slowly coming back into its own - with an attitude of steely resilience, resourcefulness and creativity.
There are some new and interesting things to see and do in this city. Check out Quake City, the Botanic Gardens, punt rides along the Avon River, and more!
1. Quake City
Quake City is a special exhibit at the Canterbury Museum, telling the stories of the earthquakes that affected Christchurch in September 2010 and February 2011. It highlights the resilience of the local community, rescue crews from all over the world, and hundreds of volunteer firefighters.
This is a great way to understand how the earthquakes changed the city and to get to know the people who survived. It is also a good place for kids to learn about the disaster.
A short walk from Quake City is a memorial site where the names of 185 people who died in the earthquake are carved into marble panels. It is a beautiful way to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in this tragic event.
2. The Botanic Gardens
Founded in 1863 and located adjacent to Hagley Park on the south bank of the Avon River, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens are the heart of the city and a key reason for its reputation as ‘The Garden City’. With a mix of exotic international and local plants, the 21 hectares of green space offer something for everyone.
Visit in the spring to enjoy drifts of daffodils and spectacular rose displays. Or in the summer to admire stunning leaf displays and cosy conservatories perfect for escaping the cold weather.
3. The Avon River
In Christchurch, the Avon River is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. It's also one of the best places to witness the city's ongoing redevelopment after the two earthquakes that hit the region.
Punting on the Avon should be high on your list of things to do in Christchurch, summer or winter. Wrapped in luxury, you'll glide gently along the peaceful river as your skilled punter propels you through a romantic wonderland.
Choose from either Antigua Boat Shed departure point to take in the tranquil Botanic Gardens or Worcester Bridge departure point to see the revitalised inner city's Avon River Precinct. There's something for everyone on this river trip, so book with Culture Trip today and discover the beauty of Christchurch with ease.
4. Banks Peninsula
Banks Peninsula is a unique feature protruding from the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. The peninsula consists of two volcanic cones that have eroded into several deep valleys and harbours.
The peninsula is a great place to experience nature. The secluded beaches and bays are home to native wildlife.
Christchurch is also a great base for exploring the rest of Banks Peninsula and it's surrounding areas, including Akaroa, Lyttelton Harbour and Waimakariri River.
Akaroa has a special point of difference as the first European settlement in the South Island. It's a charming town full of historic buildings, a beautiful harbour and a love of fine food.
5. The Isaac Theatre Royal
The Isaac Theatre Royal is a historic Edwardian style theatre built in 1908. This is the only operational theatre of this type in New Zealand and a true gem of Christchurch’s heritage.
This theatre hosts a wide range of shows from classics, comedy shows, musicals and movie nights. The unique atmosphere is created by the Edwardian architecture and beautifully restored heritage features including the breath-taking panted roof dome.
The Isaac Theatre Royal was damaged severely in the 2010/11 earthquakes and has been successfully reconstructed. The project has positioned the heritage theatre for the future, reinstated to code requirements and current theatre best practice while preserving its heritage value and charm.
6. Kura Tawhiti
A maze of massive limestone boulders, Kura Tawhiti is an incredible natural, cultural and historic wonder. It is rich in cultural and recreational significance and has been granted Topuni status, “A symbolic cloak of protection”.
A small group tour with transport and a local guide to Castle Hill/Kura Tawhiti. This is an excellent day trip from Christchurch into the mountains, with plenty to see and do.
The limestone boulders are a spectacular display of nature and geology with towering views up to Mount Plenty and the Torlesse Range. Climbers, families and tourists have long flocked here to explore the area.
