An enthralling blend of English architecture, award-winning gardens and outdoor adventures awaits you at Christchurch. This New Zealand city has an effortless love for life, which is apparent from its laid-back beachfront, diverse music scene and public art galleries.

Things to do

Begin your Christchurch holiday at the world-renowned Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a 21-hectare expanse of vibrant seasonal plants, native birds and heritage roses from around the globe. Soak up a bird’s-eye view of the city from the Christchurch Gondola, which takes you to the top of Mt Cavendish for 360-degree countryside vistas, cafe dining and the kid-friendly Time Tunnel historical exhibit.

Children will also enjoy meeting New Zealand’s most elusive wildlife at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, home to kiwis, kakas, tuataras, keas and takahes. If you're more of an adventurous-type family, get your adrenalin pumping on a jet boat ride 15 minutes from the city or go white-water rafting down Rangitata River, about two hours away.

Need to relax? Take a leisurely ride down the Avon River on an Edwardian punt boat or admire the Gothic Revival architecture in the Christchurch Arts Centre. Embrace the local love for sports and attend a Crusaders rugby match at AMI Stadium or a Canterbury Tactix netball game at Horncastle Arena.

Visiting Christchurch during summer? Take advantage of the warmer weather with a day at one of the nearby beaches, such as Woodend Beach, popular for surfing, swimming and horse riding. New Brighton Beach is closer to the CBD and boasts a picturesque pier, various water sports and beachfront dining.

Getting around

Combine history with transport by riding the city’s tramway, which gives you unlimited rides with a one day ticket. You can also catch the Metro bus network, which is affordable and efficient. There are also numerous hire car companies if you wish to travel outside of the city.