Christchurch – A City that’s Charming, Cheerful and Captivating
Sitting comfortably on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand, Christchurch is a lively city. Known for its stunning natural beauty, English heritage, and warm hospitality, Christchurch is a popular destination for travellers seeking an authentic Kiwi experience.
The city is the largest in the South Island and is home to a diverse range of attractions that cater to all types of travellers. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, immerse yourself in Maori culture, or enjoy some of the finest cuisine and wine in New Zealand, Christchurch meets every traveller’s expectations. That is why, scores of holidaymakers book their flight tickets to Christchurch throughout the year.
Why people must visit Christchurch?
People have different reasons to fly to Christchurch, New Zealand. Some visit for its sightseeing spots, while some are admirers of its bountiful nature, and some head to Christchurch for its museum and art gallery. Christchurch Cathedral is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, which was severely damaged in the 2011 earthquake but has since been undergoing a major restoration project. Other notable attractions include the Botanic Gardens, the Canterbury Museum, and the International Antarctic Centre.
Beyond the city limits, visitors can explore the stunning natural landscapes of the Canterbury region, which includes the Banks Peninsula, the Southern Alps, and the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean. Adventure seekers can enjoy thrilling activities such as hiking, skiing, surfing, and bungee jumping, while those looking for a more relaxed pace can indulge in some of the region's famous wine and culinary experiences.
With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities, Christchurch is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to New Zealand.
Best places to visit in Cairns
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens is an extensive garden located in the heart of the city, covering an area of 21 hectares. The gardens are home to over 10,000 plant species from around the world, including New Zealand's native plants, rare and endangered species, and exotic plants from other countries. You can wander around the gardens and enjoy the beautiful displays of flowers, shrubs, trees, and water features. The garden also offers a variety of tours, events, and workshops throughout the year. You can have a picnic, take a stroll or even bring your dog along for a walk in the designated dog park. Admission is free.
Canterbury Museum
Canterbury Museum is a museum located in the city centre that offers an insight into the history and culture of Canterbury and New Zealand. The museum houses a vast collection of artefacts, including Maori artefacts, natural history specimens, and cultural objects from around the world. The museum also has interactive displays, exhibitions, and guided tours that showcase the rich history and culture of Canterbury and New Zealand. Admission to the museum is free, but some special exhibitions may have an entry fee.
Christchurch Gondola
The Christchurch Gondola is a cable car ride that takes you up to the top of the Port Hills, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps. The ride takes about 10 minutes, and once you reach the top, there are several things to do, including walking tracks, mountain biking, stargazing tours, and the Time Tunnel ride, which gives you a virtual tour of the region's history. The gondola ride costs $30 for adults and $15 for children, with discounts available for families and groups.
International Antarctic Centre
The International Antarctic Centre is an interactive museum and visitor attraction that offers a glimpse into life in Antarctica. The centre features a range of interactive exhibits, including an indoor storm room, a simulated Antarctic storm, and a polar room where you can experience the freezing temperatures of the South Pole. There is also an outdoor area that features a penguin enclosure, a Hagglund ride, and a snow and ice experience. The centre also offers guided tours, 4D theatre experiences, and an immersive virtual reality experience. Admission to the centre is $59 for adults and $39 for children, with discounts available for families and groups.
Christchurch’s Leading International Airports
Christchurch International Airport is the leading airport that caters to not only the city of Christchurch but to the majority of the South Island in New Zealand. The airport takes pride in providing a world-class experience to its passengers and offers lots of facilities for their convenience and entertainment, such as shopping outlets, eateries, table tennis tables, events, a colouring wall and a gym.