Tourist information - Christchurch
Christchurch city is located midway along the East Coast of the South Island, just north of Banks Peninsula.
Christchurch is the South Island's largest city. It’s a captivating, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping along with award-winning destinations.
In the centre of the city you can’t help but notice Christchurch Cathedral, an impressive example of Gothic Revival architecture. You could climb up to the spire for a bird's-eye view of the city along with, while there, and examine the cathedral bells at close hand. Other grey-stone nineteenth century establishments, tree-lined avenues and extensive leafy parks give the city an elegant, rather English atmosphere.
Other central city attractions are the spectacular Neo-Gothic Arts Centre, the historical tram which loops the city centre, the Christchurch Gondola and the International Antarctic Centre. Christchurch is also a great place to go shopping - look for Ballantynes, New Zealand’s oldest department store.
Expect a high standard of cuisine anywhere you go - restaurants along with cafes make the most of the region’s delicacies and also local wines. Before or even after lunch, take a leisurely journey down the Avon River in a punt.
Known internationally for its award winning gardens, Christchurch is also a place for events and festivals. Whatever the season, you will see a non-stop programme of entertainment with events such as the Festival of Romance, the International Buskers Festival, winter carnival, and Showtime Canterbury.
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