Christchurch

Christchurch, or the 'Garden City', is the third largest city in New Zealand. With a thriving business centre and some of the best air and sea links for international trade, Christchurch is fast becoming a thriving factor in the New Zealand economy. Residents and visitors love the city's vibrant atmosphere and it's not hard to see why; with its happening nightlife, award-winning restaurants and stylish cafes, fashion precincts and amazing architecture, it's hard not to fall in love with this beautiful town. Christchurch is not only a fantastic place to visit, but from here you can easily access the heart of the South Island.

Christchurch is traditionally the most 'English' of all New Zealand's cities. Despite its traditional nature, the city has character and poise and is fast becoming an urban capital. The city's history is reflected in the restored laneways and squares, and of course the beautiful Anglican Cathedral in the city square.

Attractions: There are so many beautiful places to see and exciting things to do in Christchurch ? here are just a few of them:

The restored and much-loved Arts Centre, badly damaged in the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, is an enclave of Gothic Revival buildings where visitors can come to enjoy the beautiful arts and craft outlets as well as theatres, galleries, museums, restaurants and cafes.

The city Botanic Gardens comprise of 21 hectares planted with a stunning array of indigenous and introduced plants. Contained within the gardens are conservatories and thematic gardens to explore, lawns to lounge on and a cafe at the Botanic Gardens visitors centre. There's even a playground for the kids.

Cathedral Square is located in the heart of the city and is the best place the start exploring Christchurch. The Cathedral, symbolising the Church of England and built in Gothic Revival style, dominates Cathedral Square. The Cathedral was damaged in the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes and is planned to reopen its doors in 2027. Once complete, the viewing platform will show a fantastic view of the city.

Transport around City: The Christchurch Tram is a popular way to see the sites of inner city Christchurch. You can utilise Christchurch's public transport system; Metro has bus routes that cover the Greater Christchurch area. You also have other choices such as hiring a car or walking.

Recommended Restaurants: Patterson's (Burnside), Dux Central (Christchurch CBD), The Brickworks (Huntsbury), Fisherman's Wharf (Lyttelton), Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar (Christchurch CBD).

Recommended Bars: Speight's Ale House (Riccarton), Pink Lady Rooftop (Christchurch CBD), O.G.B Bar and Cocktail Bar (Christchurch CBD), Civil and Navel Bar (Lyttelton), The Dirty Land (Christchurch CBD).

Recommended Hotels: Hotel Millennium (Christchurch CBD), Heritage Christchurch (Christchurch CBD), Crowne Plaza (Christchurch CBD), Chateau on the Park (Riccarton), Fable Christchurch (Christchurch CBD).