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 Indoor sporting fun for all |
7 Iversen Terrace Phillipstown Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 6601 |
This multi-purpose centre is devoted to indoor sports of a more social nature. Action provides facilities for indoor cricket, indoor netball and the novel idea of indoor beach volleyball. The games always provide the rewarding feel of competition without the pressures of having to win. This makes the sports popular among work colleagues and social groups. The centre also acts as a club for those wanting the serious side. Netball and cricket leagues operate between Action and the many other indoor sports centres in Canterbury. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Golfing for all abilities |
193 Travis Road Burwood Christchurch 8006 New Zealand +64 (0)3 383 1105 |
This is a very low-key golf course located amongst the sports haven of QEII Park. The small, challenging course comprises 18 holes of short par threes. Tree-enclosed greens and a large pond put any ideas of easy golfing to rest. Adjoining is the QEII Driving Range. The range is fully floodlit and has a double-tier driving bay area. One of Christchurch's largest golf shops, offering professional knowledge and advice, is inside. Upstairs there is a fully licensed bar and cafe to unwind and reflect on the day's proceedings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Walk in settlers' footsteps |
Lyttleton Road Tunnel Entrance Heathcote Valley Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 0(3) 379 9758 (Department of Conservation) |
The Bridle Path gives you the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the early settlers of Canterbury, as it was once the only route over the Port Hills from the harbour at Lyttelton. Constructed in 1850, it was used until the Summit Road was completed in 1857. It remains an hours steep climb, but offers fine views of the Heathcote Valley and Christchurch, and Lyttelton on the other side. At the summit of the track there is a Stone Shelter, a memorial to the pioneer women of Canterbury. Parking is available at the car park for the Cavendish Gondola Base Station. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Upmarket Merivale cafe |
Corner Aikmans and Papanui Road Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 355 6150 |
Brigittes' motto is "there is no X in Espresso." The shop is certainly getting the experts' approval—it was recently named the best cafe in New Zealand. Polished wooden floors and bentwood chairs add a European flavour, with floor to ceiling windows providing alternating views of a busy Aikmans Road and a Mediterranean-style courtyard. An extensive wine list complements a large selection of juices, sandwiches and cakes. More substantial fare includes Eggs Florentine and Vinegared Figs and blue cheese on bruschetta, a favourite with regular customers. Fully Licensed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Customised tours for small groups |
Postal address only: 8 Lancaster Street Christchurch 7930 New Zealand +643-6938905 http://www.tours-of-new-zealan... |
A great way to see the South Island is by taking one of these personalised guided tours, tailored to suit a range of budgets and tastes. Travelling in a custom Toyota Hiace, you could take a day-trip to the Kaikoura peninsula for whale watching or dolphin swimming, a guided excursion around Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains, or enjoy the unique hospitality of farmstays. For those seeking thrills and excitement, there are optional extras like jet boating, rafting or bungy jumping. Tours range from half-day excursions to 21-day itineraries, and require a minimum of two people to proceed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Whale watch and marine reserve |
PO Box 19621 Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 384 0999 http://www.leisuretours.co.nz |
The seaside town of Kaikoura is renowned worldwide for its marine reserves and whale watch tours, which allow visitors to observe magnificent sperm whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, from boat, light aircraft or helicopter. After the tour lunch at Fyffe Gallery and Restaurant or Craypot Cafe and Bar, there is a visit to the local fur seal colony. The journey back through North Canterbury concludes with a vineyard and wine tasting. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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High country and mountain park |
PO Box 29 134 Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 377 5566 http://www.leisuretours.co.nz |
Mount Cook/Aoraki is the highest mountain in Australasia, set in the severe and beautiful landscape of the Southern Alps. The tour crosses the Canterbury Plains into the stunning Mackenzie Basin. There are stops at Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki before proceeding to the Hermitage at the base of Mount Cook. After lunch there is a chance to explore the area, including the terminal moraine of the Tasman glacier, and absorb some of the unforgettable views. The tour passes through the high country town of Fairlie before returning to Christchurch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The French connection |
PO Box 29 134 Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 377 5566 http://www.leisuretours.co.nz |
Akaroa township celebrates its heritage as the site of an early French settlement. This tour can bring you closer to that culture, as well as the great natural beauty of Akaroa Harbour. After following the scenic route over the peninsula, a highlight of the trip is a visit to the Barrys Bay cheese factory. After lunch at a popular Ankara restaurant, choose between a harbour cruise, a round of golf, horse riding, or an afternoon wandering through the town, before a tasting at a local winery. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Harbour tour |
PO Box 17 587 Christchurch New Zealand +64 (0)3 326 5607 |
See Hector's Dolphins, fur seals, blue penguins, visit a farm, go horse trekking and enjoy a barbecue lunch and the breath-taking scenery, bird and marine life of Banks Peninsula all on the one day. You will need plenty of film for this trip. Tours leave at 9.30am from Lyttelton (15 minutes from the city). A free courtesy pick-up service operates from the Canterbury Visitor Centre in central Christchurch. Shorter tours and charter tours are also available. Charges:: Adults NZD105; children NZD50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gabriel Pollard  |
 Wine and cheese in Akaroa |
PO Box 29 418 Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 357 8262 http://www.canterburyvindepays... |
Canterbury Vin de Pays specialises in tours of the winemaking regions around Christchurch, particularly in the Waipara Valley and Akaroa. The Akaroa tours will take you to wine tastings at two top wineries, such as French Farm, Akaroa Winery or Rossendale, while you can also try some of New Zealand's best cheeses at the Barrys Bay cheese factory. There is a chance to purchase wines along the way, as well as view the vineyards. A light lunch is provided. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Central city leisure centre |
181 Armagh Street Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 3 372 2853 http://www.centennial.org.nz |
The new Centennial Leisure Centre replaces the old outdoor pool that graced central Christchurch for more than 50 years. It is an impressive indoor fitness and aquatic centre popular among all age groups. The centre includes a large one-metre-deep leisure pool for the children and a 25-metre activity pool for swimming and aquarobics. The fitness centre has modern gym facilities, spa, steam room and sauna. Barbecue facilities grace the newly landscaped reserve, providing a wonderful haven for the family. The pool has natural illumination and overlooks the banks of the river Avon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Esteemed inner city golfing |
45 Horseshoe Lake Road Shirley Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 3 385 9506 |
A superbly-crafted golf course located only minutes from the city centre. The woodlands course is one of Christchurch's more exclusive golfing retreats. The course is one of the largest in Canterbury, making it also one of the most difficult. New bunkers have recently been added to make the golfing even more challenging. Christchurch Golf Club has a wonderful pro shop open seven days, with coaching is available. Bookings are essential and the course maintains strict dress standards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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What better way to explore the South Island |
Christchurch & Canterbury Visitors Centre 15-30 Cathedral Square Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9629 / +64 0800 34 3848 (Freephone New Zealand) |
Owned by experienced tour operator, Craig Banbury, this company offers a full hire service, as well as a range of guided tours. The bikes are all well-serviced, up-to-date models, and come complete with helmet, pump, repair kit and drinking bottle. The guided tours, which are approximately 10-14 days long, run from November to April. Everything is taken care of and there is always a support van near by should anyone feel the need for a little respite. Customised tours from three-five days are also available to suit individual requirements. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Historic walk in the city |
Cathedral Square Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9629 (Christchurch Information Centre) |
Christchurch prides itself on its preservation of historic buildings and structures. A short walk through the city will give you a taste of its heritage. Begin with the Square, taking in the Cathedral, Bailey's Building and the old Post Office, before moving on to Worcester Boulevard. As it crosses Oxford Terrace you will find the Visitor Centre (the Old Municipal Chambers). Turn south and follow the Avon to the Bridge of Remembrance and St Michael's Church and School, before continuing towards Montreal Street and the Arts Centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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New millennium golf resort |
PO Box 14-069 Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 3 360 1103 http://www.clearwater.net.nz |
Clearwater is Christchurch's first golf resort and residential luxury estate. The resort is set amongst superbly crafted lakes and streams in the unspoilt pastures of northern Christchurch. The golf course is of international standard, and was designed by New Zealand golfing great, Sir Bob Charles. The course has luxuries associated with a top-class golfing establishment. There are also walkways, fishing areas and a polo ground. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Advanced skiing in the heart of the alps |
Craigieburn Ski Area PO Box 2152 Christchurch 8015 New Zealand +64 (0)3 318 8711 (During Season) http://www.craigieburn.co.nz |
This field, labelled as "steep, deep and cheap" is definitely not for beginners! Located in the heart of the rugged Craigieburn Valley, it is one of the most challenging fields for boarders and skiers alike. This field is definitely worth a visit if you like crowd-free, challenging, exhilarating runs, in picturesque alpine surroundings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Quirky natural history |
Rolleston Avenue Canterbury Museum Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 9429 x817 / +64 (0)3 366 5000 (Museum) http://www.canterburymuseum.co... |
Cross a natural history museum with a child's fantasy bedroom and you have something approaching the Discovery Centre. Bright and funky, 3-13 year-olds will have all their senses stimulated by jars full of weird biological specimens, quirky stuffed animals, drawers filled with animal skulls, a live bee colony, and all manner of animal puzzles and toys. The interesting levels, ramps and pits will suit the busier types, while parents can relax in cushioned comfort reading or playing with the quieter ones. Birthday parties and school holiday programmes are available to Discovery Club members. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Experience the Delights of an Idyllic Past |
Worcester Boulevard Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 358 8790 |
Established in 1998, this lively carnival is an annual celebration of an idyllic past. Beginning with a procession of around 100 pre-1920s motorcars, penny-farthings and folk dressed in period costume, the carnival proceeds to the pleasant surrounds of North Hagley Park. Here, the main event begins, with plenty of amusements and entertainment, including penny-farthing and Clydesdale wagon rides, an Edwardian fashion parade and picnic, barbershop choir, and Punch and Judy show. The carnival promises plenty of fun for the children and a great day out for all the family. It is held annually in February. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Major sporting venue of yesteryear |
127 Cranford Street St Albans Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 355 3595 (Canterbury Football Assn) |
Since the early twentieth century, English Park was one of Christchurch's major sporting venues. Gone, however, are the days when the stadium was the central attraction for soccer, athletics and cycling in the city. Today the park is still home to the Canterbury Football Association and hosts many of the under-age representative fixtures. The clubrooms act as a function centre and the playing ground is also a quality training facility. An interesting attraction is the market, held in the car park every Saturday morning between 9am and noon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Christchurch's ten-pin bowling giant |
15-21 Iversen Terrace Phillipstown Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 3323 |
For the bowling enthusiast, Garden City Bowl is the kingpin. Twenty-four lanes greet those out for a couple of hours of fun, or more serious competition. The new interactive scoring system with speed radar will intrigue even if your bowling is ailing. Other diversions include the Kingpin cafe and bar, TimeOut video games and Pool Table. Late Night Bowling is popular with the student crowd, great music and lighting. Bookings are essential, as club matches can occupy some lanes. Plenty of off-street parking available. Average Cost: Two games NZ$17 per person Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Central city golf course |
North Hagley Park P.O. Box 188 Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 3 379 8279 http://www.hagley.nzgolf.net/ |
Situated right in the centre of Hagley Park, the Golf Club is the most convenient of all Christchurch clubs. The course is within walking distance of many of Christchurch's hotels and attractions. Club and trundler hire is available from the clubhouse, as well as simple refreshments. The most novel aspect of this course is that it only has 12 holes. Nevertheless, it doesn't make the golf any easier - just more fun instead. Hagley is perfect for the casual golfer and those who don't want to travel too far for a round. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Popular alpine resort and hot springs |
PO Box 29 134 Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 377 5566 / +1 800 484 485 (Toll Free) http://www.leisuretours.co.nz |
The small town of Hanmer Springs is famous for its natural hot springs. It also offers a huge variety of outdoor and alpine activities. Canterbury Leisure Tour's Hanmer Springs day package tour offers a taste of the best of this region. Visit a vineyard and a working sheep and deer farm, then try jet boating, white water rafting or bungee jumping. The tour includes a spectacular drive up into Jacks Pass and the opportunity to quietly explore the township. The real pay off for the day's efforts is a long, relaxing soak in the famous hot pools. Fee: NZD175 per person. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Leon Sammartino |
 Photo: Somerslea |
 Photo: Melissa Hutchison |
 Photo: Somerslea |
 Photo: Ron |
 Photo: Coincidink |
 Photo: Erin Trail |
 Photo: phronima |
 Christchurch's premier sporting venue |
Stevens Street Phillipstown Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 3 379 1765 http://www.jadestadium.co.nz |
To Cantabrians (local people) it is Lancaster Park; to the rest of world it is Jade Stadium--the stomping ground for major sporting events such as Super 12 rugby, and international rugby and cricket. Jade Stadium is currently undergoing extensive redevelopment, aspiring to the title of the ultimate spectator stadium and sporting landmark. The ground currently holds up to 30,000 screaming sports fans, with all facilities catered for. Jade Stadium is notorious for its vibrant embankment, with many a visiting team wishing they were somewhere else. Average Admission: Adults NZD15-25 (Embankment), NZD25-35 (Stand); family concession available. Gates open up to three hours before an event. Telephone for match fixtures. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: This'll Do |
 Photo: Somerslea |
 Photo: Tom Norman |
 Photo: Marie Silvestre |
 Photo: Kaylor Russell |
 Photo: clarasamazing |
 Photo: Roy Bowen |
 Photo: mboadway |
 Photo: seitznz |
 Photo: Amanda Ross |
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Easy Lower Avon walk |
Avonside Drive Avondale Christchurch 8007 New Zealand +64 (0)3 372 2840 (City Council Leisure) |
This easy 90-minute walk follows the lower Avon River downstream from Porritt Park, returning via the quiet suburban streets of Avondale. The Avon here is wide and sleek, with long straight stretches, perfect for rowing. New Zealand's first rowing club was formed here in 1861. Rowing regattas remain a regular feature on the river. You will often see coaches biking along the riverbank shouting orders to sweating rowers. At Amelia Rogers Reserve you can take the Corsers Stream sidetrack or turn inland through Avondale Park (wheelchair-accessible toilets) then follow an old river bend back to the starting point. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate Bodger |
 Nationwide fitness chain |
203-205 Cashel Street Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 1140 |
This gym is part of a nationwide fitness chain, started by former Olympian and Auckland mayor, Les Mills. World of Fitness is continually adapting to the needs of the modern fitness junkie, offering weight rooms, aerobics studios, physiotherapy and yoga. Perhaps the best services are its women-only areas and childcare facilities. Personal trainers are on hand to provide assistance at all times. Memberships range from one month to a year and usually incur a minimum NZD50 joining fee. Casual rates differ depending on the service required. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Beginner to advanced club field |
Mt Cheeseman Ski Club PO Box 22 178 Christchurch 8032 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 5315 http://www.snow.co.nz/mtcheeseman |
Mt Cheeseman offers great skiing from beginners to advanced. The terrain is divided up roughly into 15 percent beginner, 50 percent intermediate and 35 percent advanced. Beginner and intermediate slopes are groomed regularly. The field basically consists of a basin, with the two halves offering groomed piste skiing, and ungroomed powder, which you can reach via the T-Bars and rope tows. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Challenging club field |
Mt Olympus Ski Field PO Box 25055 Christchurch 8030 New Zealand +64 (0)3 329 1727 / +64 0800 6865 6787 http://www.snow.co.nz/mtolympus |
Mt Olympus has 60 hectares of ski terrain, and the basins and powder base make it an exciting and challenging field for the more advanced skier or boarder. There is a lodge on the mountain, which offers communal style accommodation--and a chance to meet some of ski-mad locals! Because of the south-facing nature of the field, it often has the best powder in the vicinity but this also means that temperatures can drop to freezing in the afternoon. Four wheel drive vehicles are the advisable mode of transport. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cultural tour and entertainment |
250 Pages Road Christchurch New Zealand +64 (0)3 388 7685 |
Here is an opportunity to visit a Maori Marae (meeting place). Experience Maori culture, learn Marae protocol and Maori myths and legends, visit the meeting houses and view the carvings. Choose from a tour and concert, or a full night of maoritanga (Maori culture), which includes a hangi (earth oven) dinner. Guests are welcomed onto the Marae and treated to a performance that includes traditional action songs, poi dances and the haka. Visitors are invited to join in and may take videos and photos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Multi-purpose small stadium |
845 Avonside Drive Wainoni Christchurch 8006 New Zealand +64 (0)3 389 9126 (Hockey Canterbury) |
Porritt Park is one of Christchurch's most diverse sporting grounds. The complex is home to many Canterbury sporting organizations. Its main tenants are the Canterbury hockey and touch rugby squads, however sports such as marching also use the facility. The park's stadium holds up to 6,000 people and has hosted international fixtures in both hockey and touch rugby. The artificial playing surface makes it one of New Zealand hockey's best stadiums, on a par with hockey stadiums around the world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Modernised fitness emporium |
Level 2, Harvey Norman Centre Corner Moorhouse Avenue and Colombo Street Christchurch, Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 2221 |
Since its opening back in 1998, Pro Fitness, locally owned and operated, has grown to be one of the most popular gyms in town. The programmes are aimed at the more athletic, the equipment inside is state-of-the-art and the atmosphere oozes serious hard work. Services include personal training, aerobics, body pump and more. Physiotherapists and nutritional experts are on hand for specialised enquiries. Pro Fitness offers flexible memberships, either paid in a lump sum or weekly, depending on your usage needs. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Commonwealth Games masterpiece |
171 Travis Road New Brighton Christchurch 8006 New Zealand +64 3 941 6849 http://www.qeiipark.org.nz |
Originally built in 1973, Queen Elizabeth II Park was the focal point of the 1974 Commonwealth Games. The stadium is the second largest in the city and hosts major athletics events, outdoor concerts and sporting fixtures. Most recently it was home to a pool of teams in the Under-17 Soccer World Cup. The aquatic centre is of Olympic quality. Major swimming and diving meets are held in the centre, as well as less well known sports such as water polo and underwater hockey. The complex is also fun for the kids with twin water slides, a learning pool and cafe. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Reedy estuary habitat walk |
Kibblewhite Street New Brighton Christchurch 8007 New Zealand +64 (0)3 372 2840 (City Council Leisure) |
This interesting 100-minute (6.5 kilometre) walk skirts the edge of the Avon's delta, a wilderness of reedy salt marsh and stunted forests of salt-tolerant trees. From the starting point at Kibblewhite Street, New Brighton, the well-marked track follows busy Bridge Street then turns upstream along the marsh. Tiny flowering plants, rushes and reeds grow on the fringes of the land, giving way to eel grass, which exists on the tidal mud. Further upstream, beyond the reach of the tides, the track enters Cockayne Reserve, dominated by fresh-water species such as cabbage trees and flax, then returns via the east bank of the river. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Impressive mountainous region |
Christchurch, Canterbury New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9629 (Tourist Information) |
These impressive mountains stretch for almost the entire length of the South Island, with the highest, Mount Cook, reaching 3,764 metres. The mountains are home to a unique and diverse range of flora and fauna--much of it from the last great ice age--as well as many beautiful lakes and glaciers. The alps are also Christchurch's adventure playground, with the foothills offering every activity imaginable, from Alpine Horse Safaris to Rangitata Rafts. Along the ranges, there is plenty of good skiing, tramping, mountaineering and rock climbing. Among the numerous alpine resorts are Mt Hutt and Porter Heights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Phillip Capper |
 Photo: Danny n' Chris |
 Photo: Andy Lenigan |
 Photo: Jan Behrens |
 Photo: Mike & Rachel |
 Photo: simon vogt, germany |
 Photo: Colin Watson |
 Photo: Tim Pokorny |
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Estuary and ocean walk |
Ebbtide Street Southshore Christchurch 8007 New Zealand +64 (0)3 327 2840 |
This 6.5 kilometre walk is best done at low tide when there is plenty of beach to walk on. The first part of the track, from Ebbtide Street (great name!), follows the edge of the Estuary. Of the 113 species of bird found here, 19 are seasonal migrants from the Arctic, flying a 26,000-kilometre round trip each year! There are great views across to Redcliffs, Shag Rock and Sumner Beach. Passing around the southern tip of the Spit, the scenery changes dramatically, to the heavy surf-line of Southshore Beach, and the coastline of Pegasus Bay curving away northwards, towards the distant Kaikoura Ranges. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Two weeks of fun for kids |
Various venues Christchurch New Zealand +64 3 941 6840 http://www.kidsfest.org.nz/ |
The two-week KidsFest is a series of more than 150 events for children up to 12 years of age, ranging from sport and plays to art and craft workshops. Orana Park provides free entry for children (if accompanied by an adult) as part of the KidsFest. There are numerous activities held around the city, including an attempt on the world pavement art record in Cathedral Square. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Stunning peninsula walk |
Taylor's Mistake Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9758 (Department of Conservation) |
Beginning at Taylor's Mistake, the walkway winds around the steep edge of the headland over a number of bays and coves, offering spectacular views of the ocean and the high, open hill landscape of this volcanic peninsula. Of particular interest are the cave dwellings and rugged holiday cottages dotted along the coastline and at Boulder Bay. From Boulder Bay, the track rises to the Godley Head Reserve car park, from where you can explore some historic military bunkers. The round trip is about three hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fun Afternoon of Entertainment |
North Hagley Park Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 372 2840 http://www.summertimes.org.nz |
If you go down in the woods on this day you are sure of a big surprise. Every year the Children's Day Picnic is held in leafy North Hagley Park. Fun activities of all shapes and sizes are available for the youngsters (and not-so-young) who turn up for lunch to enjoy good company and live children's entertainment. There is music, comedy, puppetry and magic, all in an atmosphere that is always really special. Admission is free but you have to pay and park. See their website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Alpine skiing at its best |
Temple Basin Ski Area PO Box 1228 Christchurch 8015 New Zealand +64 (0)3 377 7788 http://www.snow.co.nz/templebasin |
Located in the heart of the Southern Alps, near Arthurs Pass, Temple Basin has lots to offer in the way of true alpine skiing. Casual day skiing, ski weekends, and ski weeks are all offered, but bookings are essential if you wish to stay in the lodges located on the mountain. Temple Basin has around 320 hectares of ski terrain for pure, crowd-free enjoyment. Night skiing is often offered too. For those who tire of slopes, you can always explore the many bush walks around Arthurs Pass. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For every lover of books |
38L English Street, Upper Riccarton Christchurch, NZ 8001 New Zealand +64 3 358 0740 http://www.chchwritersfest.co.... |
Since its inception in 1997, this annual bookfest has been growing in stature and reputation. Well-known authors, editors and publishers from New Zealand and abroad offer a range of stimulating talks and workshops on all facets of publishing (such as writing a thriller, self-publishing options, the role of the Internet, and book editing). There are also writing competitions and storytelling events for children. The festival is run from a number of locations including the historic Arts Centre of Christchurch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hot-air balloon adventure |
PO Box 36 308 Christchurch New Zealand +64 0 3 381 4600 / +64 0 25 325 611 http://www.ballooning.co.nz |
There is no other place in the world where it is possible to fly from the centre of the city, in view of the ocean toward snow-capped mountains. Hot-air ballooning--the ultimate adventure and the best way to view Christchurch's three big attractions, the Southern Alps, Canterbury Plains and the Pacific Ocean. Rise with the sun and join a morning champagne flight--the entire trip takes up to four hours with one hour of actual flying time. A fleet of four balloons can fly up to 36 passengers at any one time. The company boasts an excellent safety record. Bookings: Daily departure is from parks within the city and times range from 4.30am (summer) to 7.30am (winter), weather permitting. Prices from NZD200. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Samia Kibria |
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Explore the city, the peninsula or the plains |
11 Whitmore Street, Richmond Christchurch New Zealand +64 3 942 6072 http://www.walkaway.co.nz/ |
These walking tours can take from two hours to a full day and require an average level of fitness. Shorter tours allow you to explore the central city or Port Hills of Christchurch, while longer tours take you into the Southern Alps or onto Banks Peninsula to explore ancient volcanic craters. If you enjoy the outdoors and the flora and fauna of native bush, you will not be disappointed by the options available to you. There is a door-to-door pick-up service and lunch and refreshments are provided. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Part of Christchurch's twin courses |
Waitikiri Drive Burwood Christchurch 8006 New Zealand +64 3 383 1403 http://www.windsor.orcon.net.nz |
A peaceful and picturesque golf course only fifteen minutes drive from the central city. The aspect that sets Windsor apart from other Christchurch courses is its rolling terrain. The course has many great views to survey just in case the game isn't up to standard. The club has a bar and shower facilities. By prior arrangement meals and catering can be organised. Adjoining the links is the equally beautiful but slightly more exclusive Waitikiri Golf Club. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Gorgeous riverside walk |
From Cathedral Square to Rolleston Avenue Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9629 (Christchurch & Canterbury Information Centre) |
Whether you take the tram or walk, do not miss Worcester Boulevard as it links some of the city's best attractions. Running east and west, the Boulevard leads you from the Canterbury Museum and Botanical Gardens to the doors of the Cathedral in the Square. Along the way you will find art galleries, the Arts Centre of Christchurch, and award-winning cafes, not to mention the Christchurch & Canterbury Visitors Centre. The boulevard also passes the site of the city's exciting new Art Gallery project. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Matt Greenham |
 Photo: Jo |
 Photo: Juan Franco |
 Photo: Clayton Parsons |
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Lively street entertainment |
Various venues throughout Christchurch Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 377 2365 http://www.worldbuskersfestiva... |
Want to laugh and gasp at total strangers in the street? It is a perfectly natural response to the pavement antics of Australasia's largest international street performers' festival. This annual event promises the most dynamic line-up of international and national street artists to ever perform in one New Zealand city at the same time. There are nearly 300 street and stage shows, from master magicians to trapeze artists, throughout the day at The City Mall, the Arts Centre of Christchurch (The) and Cathedral Square. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jo |
 Photo: Keith Charlton |
 Photo: Martyn |
 Photo: Christine Hammond |
 Photo: Nienke Maat |
 Photo: elliebump |
 Photo: aiven |
 Photo: Craig Hagan |