things to do in christchurch new zealand

Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, is a vibrant and eclectic mix of traditional and modern attractions. Here are some things to do in Christchurch:

Natural Attractions:

1. Hagley Park: A large public park with beautiful gardens, lakes, and walking trails.
2. Christchurch Botanic Gardens: A peaceful oasis with over 10 hectares of gardens and a variety of plant species.
3. Avon River: Take a scenic walk or boat ride along the river, which runs through the heart of the city.
4. Port Hills: A scenic drive or hike to the top of the hills offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Cultural Attractions:

1. Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū: A world-class art gallery featuring New Zealand and international art.
2. Canterbury Museum: A museum showcasing the region’s history, culture, and natural history.
3. ChristChurch Cathedral: The iconic cathedral, still under reconstruction after the earthquakes, offers guided tours.
4. Street Art: Christchurch is known for its vibrant street art scene; take a self-guided tour to discover some of the city’s best murals.

Family-Friendly Attractions:

1. Christchurch Tramway: A historic tram that takes you on a scenic tour of the city.
2. Orana Wildlife Park: A wildlife sanctuary with a variety of animals, including kiwis, giraffes, and rhinos.
3. International Antarctic Centre: An interactive attraction showcasing the science and exploration of Antarctica.
4. Margaret Mahy Family Playground: A large, award-winning playground with a variety of play equipment and activities.

Adventure Activities:

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Christchurch is close to several ski resorts, including Mount Hutt and Porter Heights.
2. Hot Air Ballooning: Take a scenic hot air balloon ride over the city and surrounding countryside.
3. Helicopter Tours: Explore the city and surrounding landscape from above on a helicopter tour.
4. Mountain Biking: Christchurch has several mountain biking trails, including the popular Port Hills trails.

Food and Drink:

1. The Tannery: A boutique shopping and dining complex with a variety of restaurants and cafes.
2. Christchurch Farmers Market: A bustling market selling local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts.
3. Breweries: Christchurch has a number of craft breweries, including Cassels & Sons and Three Boys Brewery.
4. Restaurants: Christchurch has a diverse dining scene, with a range of cuisines and restaurants to choose from.

Other Attractions:

1. Re:Start Mall: A unique shopping center made from shipping containers.
2. The Bridge of Remembrance: A historic bridge and war memorial.
3. The Cardboard Cathedral: A temporary cathedral made from cardboard and iron.
4. Summit Road: A scenic drive with stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Christchurch, New Zealand. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or food and drink.