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 A breath of French air |
80 Rue Lavaud Christchurch 8161 New Zealand +64 (0)3 304 8600 (Akaroa Information Centre) http://www.akaroa.com |
This charming Anglo-French village, established in 1840, is Canterbury's oldest town and New Zealand's only French settlement. The community retains a strong Gallic flavour, notably through the architecture and ambience, which is best observed by taking the Akaroa Historic Walk. The road to Akaroa climbs over the hills and twists along valleys--the spectacular views of Akaroa Harbour make up for the inconvenience. The rare Hector's dolphin frolics in this harbour and for a close encounter call Akaroa Harbour Cruises or Black Cat Group. Enjoy cafes along the waterfront, or for a truly Provencal experience, visit French Farm Winery and Restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jun_0418_sheep |
 Photo: jun_0418_sheep |
 Photo: Lenin JR |
 Photo: Steve Thibodeau |
 Photo: Monia Voegelin  |
 Photo: Jaci J |
 Photo: King Wei YONG |
 Photo: Stuart Barnard |
 Photo: C.Bolte&M.Strickler |
 Photo: Regina Huttner |
 Photo: Bamma Mellott |
 Photo: Daniel Bosma |
 Photo: J Dub!! |
 Photo: Steve Shand |
 Photo: Kirsty Mallett |
 Photo: scott & zoe |
 Photo: Maarten & Corrie |
 Photo: Myke and Sarah Hines |
 Photo: Gillian Mee |
 Photo: Neesa Pizza |
 Photo: Louise Harrison |
 Photo: Stephen Peter |
 Photo: Emma McCleary |
 Ideal mountain biking and hiking terrain |
Waitikiri Drive Marshland Christchurch 8009 New Zealand +64 (0)3 383 0405 (Bottle Lake Ranger Station) |
This 800-hectare exotic plantation is located on the northern edge of the city. Its labyrinthine network of access roads are all named after alphabetic call signs: bravo, delta, foxtrot, lima. Several trails (maps available) radiate out into the deep green depths of the forest from the ranger station off Waitikiri Drive, where there are toilets. The Yellow Track (two hours return) leads to a set of ponds and a picnic area while the Green Track (45 minutes) is a shorter three-kilometre loop. The Blue Track is a long (some might say tedious) trek to Spencer Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate Bodger |
 Photo: Byron Clark |
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Canterbury's Big Weekend |
Canterbury Agricultural Park Wigram Road, Hornby Christchurch, NZ 8004 New Zealand +64 (0)3 343 3033 http://www.theshow.co.nz |
Formerly known as the Canterbury A & P Show and running for well over 100 years, this four-day event is the big day out for Cantabrians. Traditionally the highlight of the farming and agricultural calendar, with livestock competitions and farm equipment demonstrations, it is now a major entertainment event, including an international carnival area complete with roller coaster. The show has kept pace with the changing face of Canterbury farming and manufacturing and now includes a science and technology display, the local wine and food stalls, and a diverse range of livestock from sheep to emus. Admission: Adults NZD13; children NZD5; concession NZD7 Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jon Sullivan |
 Photo: Mike Riversdale |
 Photo: Jon Sullivan |
 Well-priced golf course |
McLeans Island Road P.O Box 14-102 Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 3 359 7172 http://www.coringa.nzgolf.net/ |
Coringa is situated at McLean's Island in Christchurch. At par 73 and almost 6,000 metres in length, this golf course is a golfer's worst nightmare. The course is expansive, yet unyielding to wayward strokeplay. The club is very friendly and popular among youth players. Annually, the course hosts the Canterbury Secondary School Matchplay Championships. On course are a small pro-shop, practice facilities and a comfortable clubhouse. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Volcanic rock and panoramic views |
Adjacent Dyer Pass Road and Summit Road Port Hills Christchurch New Zealand |
A few million years ago, Lttyleton Volcano spewed out molten lava that flowed down the slopes to the harbour below. Today, the volcano lies dormant but its legacy of amazing rock formations lives on. The Crater Rim Walkway is a great way to explore these rocks, not to mention enjoy magnificent views of Banks Peninsula, Lyttleton Harbour, Christchurch City and the Canterbury Plains. Commencing at the Sign of the Takeha (just above Dyers Pass Road), the walkway also provides access to remnants of native forest and areas where replanting of native and exotic trees has occurred. Pick up a Department of Conservation guide at the Christchurch Visitors Centre to work out how much of the walk you want to complete--at 17 kilometers, many people only tackle a small section at a time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Phillip Pearson |
 Photo: Phillip Pearson |
 Photo: Jan R. Ludwig |
 Local track-cycling arena |
Main South Road Hornby Christchurch 8004 New Zealand +64 (0)3 349 2513 (Hornby Cycling Club) |
Christchurch's top track-cycling stadium was built back in 1974 for the Commonwealth Games. Since then it has remained one of the top cycling stadiums in New Zealand. Nowadays, it is home to the Hornby Cycling Club and hosts major cycle meets regularly throughout the summer. The stadium comfortably holds 2,000 people and provides refreshments when cycle meets are on. During the winter the oval is used for rugby union, recently hosting the Canterbury Under-19 tournament. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Not just a driving range |
196 Roydvale Avenue Burnside Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 (0)3 358 9818 http://www.gcgolf.co.nz/ |
Close to Christchurch Airport, is a driving range with all the trappings--except an actual golf course. Garden City Golf is a golfer's paradise with on-site professional advice to get your game in shape. If equipment is not the problem, book some videotaped golfing lessons at the school of golf. Once you are confident, purchase a bucket of balls and head outside to the all-weather bays. Bay bookings are not required, and night golfing is available. Join one of Garden City Golf's sessions, and you are one hole closer to the professionals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Scenic head and old bunkers |
Summit Road Banks Peninsula Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9758 (Department of Conservation) |
The great mass of Godley Head divides Taylors Mistake from Lyttelton Harbour. From the top of Godley Head there are magnificent views of the ocean and Banks Peninsula, and there are a number of mountain bike tracks and walkways throughout the area, suited to most levels of fitness. Truly intriguing are the concrete bunkers and narrow tunnels running down the hillside, constructed during the Second World War to secure the harbor against a potential attack. The shortest walk to these bunkers is from the Godley Head car park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Grant Margison |
 Photo: Robert Coleman |
 Photo: Nick Hodge |
 Photo: Nick Hodge |
 Photo: Melissa Hutchison |
 Photo: Jess Grinsted |
 Photo: Simon Waterhouse |
 Photo: Steve Morgan |
 Photo: Adam Cooper |
 Photo: Debbie Alexander |
 Photo: joelnordman |
 Photo: Helen Devereux |
 Photo: Frederique Bertrand |
 Photo: Karsten Grillitsch |
 Photo: Joseph.M. |
 Family picnic and recreation area |
160 Johns Road Belfast Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 (0)3 323 7609 (Picnic Reserve) / +64 (0)3 323 6201 (Shop & Hire) |
Summer picnics at the Groynes, is a childhood experience common to many of the citizens of Christchurch. Popular since the 1920s, it is still hard to beat as a place for family recreation. A wetland area dominated by the Otukaikino creek, large trees provide ample shelter for all manner of activities. Younger children will love the excellent playground equipment and the ducks, while older ones might like an excursion onto the lake in a hire canoe or water bike. The easy walkways are suitable for all ages. Other facilities include gas barbecues, and a summer shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Riversdale |
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Golfers' every need provided |
371 McLeans Island Road Harewood Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 (0)3 359 8843 |
Canterbury's largest golf club, boasting over 1500 members and two top quality courses; one tree-lined and tight, the other more open and links-style. Lessons are available from a professional coach at the on-site coaching school. Harewood Golf Club is near Christchurch International Airport, and 20 minutes from central Christchurch. The fully stocked pro-shop offers club and cart hire plus other general golfing supplies. The large comfortable clubhouse is open seven days, so you can unwind after a good, or bad, day on the course. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Joy ride down the white water |
Challenge Service Station Waimakariri River State Highway One Christchurch New Zealand +64 (0)3 385 1478 / +65 (0)800 27 7729 (Free Phone) http://www.jetthrills.com/ |
Only 15 minutes from the centre of Christchurch, you can enjoy the exhilaration of jet boating on the mighty Waimak River, flowing down from the Alps, across the Canterbury Plains and into the Pacific. These operators offer a door-to-door service and are fairly flexible, with full or half-day tours, barbecues, picnics and variable pick-up times on request. Other options include a heli-jet ride, jet boat safari and farm visits. Bookings can be made at the Christchurch and Canterbury Visitors Centre or at your hotel. For further details do call or check the website. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Jet boating and fly-fishing |
Island Road, View Hill Oxford Christchurch 7495 New Zealand +64 (0)3 312 4309 http://www.kowhai.co.nz |
Kowhai Fly Fishing and Jet Boat Rides offers people the chance to enjoy the Waimakariri River in two different ways. Jet boating gives participants the thrill of the 40-minute ride and a view of the river not easily accessible. A single customer is charged NZD100 but two to three people will pay only NZD50 each. Fly fishing for trout or salmon with a guide is available year round although the best results are often achieved from October to January. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Horse riding with stay-over options |
Island Rd, View Hill Oxford Christchurch 8253 New Zealand +64 (0)3 312 4309 http://www.kowhai.co.nz |
The Kowhai Riding School offers a variety of courses for adults and children interested in ponies and horses. Options range from a half-day trek costing NZD30 to live-in courses with transfers to Christchurch built into the price. A weekend course with two nights' shared accommodation, all meals, horse-riding instruction and some trekking costs NZD95 per person. Five and seven day live-in courses are also popular, especially in the school holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Popular summer spot |
Leithfield Beach Hurunui District Christchurch 8251 New Zealand +64 (0)3 314 8816 (Hurunui District Council) |
Located approximately 50 kilometers north of Christchurch, Leithfield Beach boasts a camping ground, tennis courts, children's playground, swimming pool, changing rooms, off-road four wheel drive trails, and horse trekking. The crowd-free swimming and surfing along this vast stretch of the North Canterbury coastline is well worth the visit alone. Leithfield has even been immortalized by the famous New Zealand poet, Allen Curnow, in his poem Wild Iron. The words "Sea go dark, go dark with wind, Feet go heavy, heavy with sand", are Curnow's description of the infamous Canterbury Nor'wester, playing havoc on the coast, as it so often does along this exposed stretch of Pegasus Bay. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Grass roots focussed golf club |
McLean's Island Road Harewood Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 3 359 9768 |
This popular golf club is one of three courses on the McLean's Island golfing stretch. This club is popular with junior golf players, and cheap green fees and regular course availability makes this course ideal for the casual golfer. The club is easily found because of its direct proximity (across the road) to Christchurch's Orana Wildlife Park. Because the course has no professional or shop, club hire is very limited. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Native birds, walks and view |
Summit Road Port Hills Christchurch 8002 New Zealand +64 (0)3 348 7498 (Ranger) http://www.ccc.govt.nz/Parks |
At the top of the Port Hills, Omahu Bush is a 106-hectare reserve of native bush, with several walking tracks, ranging from 30-90 minutes duration. There is a striking outcrop of volcanic rock at the summit, fittingly named Gibraltar Rock, as well as native birds, such as bellbirds and fantails and great views. Omahu means "escaping" or "running silently". (Prior to European settlement, when a Maori chief was killed near here, members of his tribe managed to escape through the bush cover of Omahu.) Within easy reach of Christchurch, this preserved area is situated on the panoramic Summit Road, past the historic Sign of the Kiwi and Sign of the Bellbird buildings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Tragic Maori fortification |
Onawe Flat Road Christchurch 8160 New Zealand +64 (0)3 304 8600 (Akaroa Information Centre) |
This exclamation mark-shaped peninsula at the top end of Akaroa Harbor was the scene of a horrific massacre during Maori chief Te Rauparaha's bloody conquest of Canterbury in 1830. The Ngai-tahu tribe had constructed a large pa (fortified village) on the peninsula, which is joined to the mainland by a neck of rock only a few metres wide. But the peninsula's inaccessibility became a trap for its inhabitants. Once Te Rauparaha's men had gained entry there was no escape; hundreds of Ngai-tahu people were killed and eaten. Remnants of earthworks and cooking pits are still visible on the peninsula. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jon Sullivan |
 Animal safari on the plains |
McLeans Island Road PO Box 5130, Papanui Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 (0)3 359 7109 http://www.oranawildlifepark.c... |
Acclaimed conservation wildlife park, dedicated to saving many endangered species like the white rhino and cheetah. Time your visit to coincide with the animals' feeding time--including handfeeding the giraffe. Visit the Nocturnal House and view New Zealand's famous kiwi or the ancient tuatara, our living fossil. As you stroll around this huge complex, encounter the gentle farmyard animals (safe for children to pat), native bird life including the mischievous kea and exotic wildlife from many different parts of the world, including monkeys, parrots and meerkats. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michelle Devall (www.ellectric.com) |
 Photo: Michelle Devall (www.ellectric.com) |
 Photo: Cheng Soon Goh |
 Photo: davycameron |
 Photo: Kristine Riskær |
 Photo: Christopher Mills |
 Photo: Simone Naef |
 Photo: wainfamily |
 Photo: Arjan Salomons |
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Mountain farm park |
Marine Drive Charteris Bay Christchurch 8033 New Zealand +64 (0)3 329 4730 |
There is something for everyone at Orton Bradley Park, a private, working, farm park overlooking picturesque Lyttelton Harbour, 26 kilometres from Christchurch. The park's facilities include tennis courts, a golf club, children's adventure playground, picnic sites, a farm centre, horse riding, and tree and rhododendron gardens, as well as an interesting collection of historical farm machinery, and a water wheel, dating from 1880. There are several walking tracks, which vary in length from a short 20-minute stroll, to a four-hour, strenuous climb up Mount Herbert, at the back of this forested, valley park. There are great views from the top. Admission: NZD2 per person Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Serene bush and swamp |
Main North Road Between Chaneys Corner and the Belfast End Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 1660 (Christchurch City Council Parks Unit) http://www.doc.govt.nz/ |
Serene Otukaikino, an area of native bush amongst swamp land, is a unique, joint, restoration project by the Department of Conservation, a funeral company, and supported by local Maori. For every funeral arranged, a native plant is planted, in this area that was once a traditional Maori water burial (wai tapu) site. A boardwalk traverses the area, enabling visitors to glimpse pukeko (native swamp hen), eels and native snails. A Maori carving of Tanemahuta (god of the forest) sits in the water surrounded by tussock, flax and cabbage trees (ti kouka). This is a great area for photography. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Horse trekking for all levels |
78 Lower Styx Road Marshlands Christchurch 8009 New Zealand +64 (0)3 385 2508 / +64 0800 84 7455 (Freephone New Zealand) http://www.adventurecanterbury... |
These treks are suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. You can take a half-hour beach ride. Alternatively, if you are a little more ambitious, there is an excellent two and a half-hour trek over green farmland, into a woody pine forest and out onto the beach by the beautiful Pegasus Bay in Waipara. The whole trip only takes three and a half-hours, including pick-up from the centre of Christchurch. Bookings can be made through resv@adventurecanterbuy.com. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Outdoor minigolf |
196 Roydvale Ave Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 (0)3 358 9250 http://www.piratesisland.co.nz |
If buried treasure, eye-patches, galleons, and sharks fire up the imagination of your children, thrill them with this pirate-themed minigolf course. Taking a little over half an hour to complete, children aged over five will adore the large pirate ship and lurid-blue waterfall, while completing their 18 holes. With full wheelchair access, Pirate's Island Adventure Golf caters for younger children in pushchairs, and there are drinks and snacks available. The course is floodlit at night--ideal for kids of all ages! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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First class golfing treat |
428 Memorial Ave Christchurch 8004 New Zealand +64 (0)3 358 4748 http://www.russleygolfclub.co.nz |
This international-class course is one of the most exclusive golf courses in Canterbury and New Zealand. It has been the only golf course in the South Island to host The New Zealand Golf Open. In 1994, Russley completed a major upgrade on its club premises. Today the clubhouse is a landmark in itself and includes conference facilities, function rooms and fully licensed bars and restaurants. The superbly manicured course is constantly fine-tuned to better the golfing experience. Whilst adult prices are expensive, Russley prices itself well in reach for junior golfers so they too can test themselves on a first class golf course. Check website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Birdwatcher's ramble |
Heyders Road Spencerville Christchurch 8009 New Zealand +64 (0)3 372 2840 (City Council Leisure) |
Sheltered from the prevailing easterly winds by high sand dunes, the swamps of Brooklands Lagoon provide a fine habitat for wading and water birds. This clearly-marked, two-kilometre track begins at the end of Heyders Road where there is an information panel and a bird observation platform. The track meanders through scrub, poplar and willow groves and traverses low-lying swampy areas bordering the lagoon. At the end of the track there is a bird hide from which you can observe some of the 72 species recorded here. Return via the Loop Track around Seafield Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Historic hillside tea rooms |
Summit Road Port Hills Christchurch 8002 New Zealand +64 (0)3 329 9966 |
High on the Port Hills, at the junction of the Christchurch-Lyttelton Harbour road and the scenic Summit Road, near Victoria Park, sits the curiously-named, quaint, stone building, Sign of the Kiwi. Opened in 1917 as a tearoom and rest house, it is one of a chain of interesting buildings, which includes the Sign of the Takahe (now a fine dining restaurant) further down the hill. Built by local politician and visionary, Henry Ell, in the early 1900s and used as staging posts along a hillside tourist route, Sign of the Kiwi is now a shop and cafe--and the view is great. Directly behind is Coronation Hill Reserve, with walking tracks, which traverse this old volcanic area. All-day menu available, including sandwiches, scones, and nachos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Drew Mackie |
 Photo: Jacqui Stokes |
 Photo: Thomas Lauterbach |
 Photo: daniel1900 |
 Photo: RainmanEverson |
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Peninsula perimeter walk |
Little River Christchurch 8162 New Zealand +64 (0)3 329 0007 |
This superb two or four-day walk takes you around the rugged outer edge of Banks Peninsula; a landscape of dramatic cliffs, valleys, vast swathes of tussocky hills, and beaches populated with seals and shag colonies. The walk is entirely on private land and well-maintained farm huts provide rustic accommodation with cooking facilities, hot showers and even flush toilets. A good level of fitness and gear to cope with bad weather are required--the track rises from sea level to 800 metres. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tranquil picnicking, walking area |
Hussey Road Harewood Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 (0)3 323 7609 (Groynes Reserve Rangers) |
This lovely area alongside the quiet Styx River, with an abundance of flax (harakeke), other native plants and willow trees, has several well-maintained walking tracks and footbridges, specifically designed for wheelchair users. The area is currently being developed into a larger reserve, with an emphasis on preserving wetland areas and will eventually link up with the nearby Groynes and Travis Swamp reserve areas. Despite the ongoing work, this reserve, with its abundance of well-placed picnic tables along the river edge, is ideal for walking, picnicking and enjoying the peaceful scenery. Just down the road from Willowbank Wildlife Reserve and handy to delightful Berryfields Restaurant, Styx Mill Reserve is well located. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Armed warfare paintball style |
980 McLean's Island Road Harewood Christchurch 8005 New Zealand +64 (0)3 359 2195 / +64 (0)25 34 0358 (Mobile) |
If you fancy yourself as a combat hero or sharpshooter, this place is for you. Here the ammunition is paint balls and the battleground is the idyllic Canterbury homeland. Matches take place in a confined arena or out in the fields and plantation land of McLean's Island. Teams battle it out with the object of survival (and not losing your base to the opposition). If you take a hit, you are eliminated from the remainder of the round. The Ultimate Game operates day or night and game hours are organized with each individual booking. All the equipment except paint balls is provided as part of the cost per game. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Long ocean beach walk |
Spencer Park Spencerville Christchurch 8009 New Zealand +64 (0)3 329 8507 (Ranger Station) |
This easy five-kilometer walking track takes you north from Spencer Park along the edge of Brooklands Lagoon to the mouth of the Waimakariri River. The river mouth is popular with fishermen angling for salmon and kahawai, or targeting the elusive whitebait with fine nets. A good option is to walk one way along the beach (50 minutes) and return using the marked walking track a short distance inland from the beach. Avoid walking on the beach at high tide; it is easier underfoot after the tide recedes and the sand is firm. Review © 2007, Wcities |