Arts & Culture

Take time to explore the city by double-decker bus, vintage bicycle, gondola, tram or classic Edwardian punt – or grab your walking shoes and discover bars, eateries and an eclectic mix of boutique shops by foot.

A visit to the Garden city is not complete without a visit to Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Capture the bright yellow daffodils, cherry blossom trees and baby ducklings by a traditional punt or canoe down the Avon River. Hagley Park offers vast green spaces, dotted with century-old trees, and stunning floral shows in springtime. Walk, run or cycle its pathways, or take on the fitness circuit. A visit to the famous Margaret Mahy Family playground on the banks of the Avon River will surely entertain children of all ages.

To fill in time between meals, a visit to the International Antarctic Centre is a treat for young and old. Experiences include an Antarctic storm room, an all-terrain vehicle tour and meeting penguins and huskies. The Christchurch Arts Centre is a different kind of attraction but also a must-do - the beautiful heritage buildings were badly damaged in the quakes but the area is progressively opening again - the complex includes shops, restaurants, galleries, art spaces & cultural events - check out their website for what’s coming up. If you are up for the challenge the Christchurch Marathon is at the beginning of June - there’s a full, a half, a 10k and a kids’ marathon, and the run follows a gentle flat course around many of Christchurch’s landmarks