Christchurch

Christchurch promises a lot - unrivalled natural and architectural beauty, 19th century buildings, majestic trees, extensive gardens, interesting bridges and meandering paths - and it delivers!

The city prides itself on its outstanding cultural identity and the reputation it has for 'the best cultural precinct' in the southern hemisphere. On the banks of the Avon River sits the cultural heart of the country.

Christchurch became New Zealand’s first city by royal charter in July 1856. The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch is said to be the most English city in New Zealand and without doubt one of the most beautiful - it is a winner of the international garden city award.

The beaches are beautiful, sandy, clean and almost empty. New Brighton is the longest: miles of sand with pine trees growing beside the sand dunes. Sumner beach has the picturesque Shag Rock at one end. If the tide is out you can walk down to Cave Rock and along the Esplanade. Taylors Mistake Beach is over the next hill. This is a sheltered cove with baches (small houses used for weekend retreats) along the shore. The walk along the cliffs has some dramatic views. All the beaches are great for swimming, surfing and sailing, and most have lifeguards on duty.

• Wander the award-winning Botanic Gardens
• Stroll through Hagley Park
• Take a punt down the Avon River
• See the city lights on the Gondolas
• Ride the tram thought the city centre
• Walk the seemingly endless sand at New Brighton beach
• Enjoy the shelter of Taylors Mistake Beach