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The
 Christchurch's English heart |
Christchurch, Canterbury 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 6929 (Tourist Information) |
This is the natural feature perhaps most responsible for Christchurch's Englishness--a vision completed by the presence of the punting boats. Rising in Avonhead suburb, from springs which once bubbled up in a swampy plain, the river weaves through the city like the theme of a symphony, constantly appearing and disappearing as it twines through parks, (notably Hagley Park), and slips under graceful arched bridges. Numerous points of historic interest lie along the river, which grows wide and sleek from countless springs and tributary streams. Lower down its course the river runs into the Estuary, where it loses itself in a reedy delta. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paula Michelle del Rosario |
 Photo: Stephen Turvey |
 Photo: Charles Augello |
 Photo: Seth Daire |
 Photo: Grant Jun Otsuki |
 Photo: cgt  |
 Photo: Peter Kelly |
 Photo: Allan Lee |
 Photo: Anthony |
 Photo: Oded Ilan |
 Photo: MountainLaurel |
 Photo: David Frink |
 Photo: Walter Logeman |
 Photo: Karen S |
 Photo: Moray Nairn |
 Photo: nick chesterton |
 Photo: Mark Matakitoga |
 Photo: Jen Duane |
 Photo: Nino Sani |
 Photo: Henk Bokhoven |
 Photo: heeter |
 Photo: RedJackSquid |
 Photo: Malcolm Skinner |
 Photo: Maria Rocha-Martin |
 Photo: TCFL Study Trip 2008 |
 Photo: Stuart Oreo |
 Photo: M. Baivier |
 Photo: Dominic Wong |
 Photo: Aaron K.K.Koo |
 Photo: lytteltonwitch |
 Photo: whc7294 |
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River and sea meet |
Christchurch, Canterbury 8008 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 2257 http://www.estuary.org.nz/ |
The Avon and Heathcote rivers converge on this 800-hectare estuary, dominated by the Te Huingi Manu Wildlife Refuge. This is one of New Zealand's most important wetlands, comprising mudflats, salt marshes, reed beds and sand dunes. It is estimated to be relatively "young" at 450 years old. A twitchers (birdwatchers) paradise, the estuary is home to over 100 species of bird including 8,000 waders and 15,000 ducks. The best place to observe the bird life is around the oxidation ponds off Dyers Road. The windsurfing reserve at Humphreys Drive is a hot gathering place for windsurfers, who can attain high speeds in a stiff easterly wind. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate Bodger |
 Photo: Jon Sullivan |
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Legendary seaside cave |
Sumner Beach The Esplanade Christchurch 8008 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9629 (Christchurch Information Centre) |
This hollow, 11 metre high mass of volcanic stone is a familiar landmark and playground in the seaside suburb of Sumner. The signal station on the summit of the rock once supplied information to vessels crossing the Heathcote Bar. Local Maori legend has it that Cave Rock is what remains of a great whale, beached there by sorcery by a local chief in an act of revenge. The rock is climbable, with care, and it is also possible to explore the large cave inside during low tide. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert Coleman |
 Photo: james |
 Photo: Karen Wren |
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Charming way to see the city |
7 Tramway Ln (PO Box 872) Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 7830 http://www.tram.co.nz |
Experience the world's oldest working trams still in scheduled service. These beautiful restored tram cars and trailers date from 1879 to 1925 and follow a 2.5 kilometre route through the heart of the city, including historic city sights. You can take a one-hour or an all-day ticket. Hop on or off to enjoy the cafes of New Regent Street, the Arts Centre and museum. Check website for further information including prices. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alyssa Umsawasdi |
 Photo: Hiroyuki Mori |
 Photo: Mariko Walton |
 Photo: Hiroyuki Mori |
 Photo: Fred |
 Photo: Alyssa Umsawasdi |
 Photo: Antoine Hubert |
 Photo: Karen |
 Photo: Michael Tolich |
 Photo: tamas.decsi |
 Photo: Grace Cuenca |
 Photo: Elaine Deegan |
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One of the larger bays |
Main Road Governors Bay Christchurch 8033 New Zealand +64 (0)3 328 9093 (Lyttelton Information Centre) |
One of the larger bays in Lyttelton Harbour, this is a popular choice for those escaping the hubbub of Christchurch. There is good fishing from the long wooden jetty, which juts 100 meters into the bay. Graceful poplar trees line the perimeter of the bay and a walking track leads from the bottom of Jetty Road around to Sandy Beach, where there is safe, if somewhat tidal, swimming. There are good views of the harbor from Faulkner's Track, which climbs the steep hill behind the village from Faulkner's Lane. The Smuggler's Rest pub provides refreshments for thirsty beachcombers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pieterjan Oomen |
 Photo: Pieterjan Oomen |
 Photo: Flavio Riviere |
 Photo: Paul Foot |
 Photo: audra_nz2usa |
 Photo: Missy Elle |
 Photo: Matt Green |
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An English experience |
Worcester Boulevard and Oxford Terrace (Christchurch Visitors Centre) Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9629 |
If you feel like being pampered, what better way than to recline in a punt and be guided along the tranquil waters of the river Avon by trained boatmen? Watch the lazy willows, ducks and beautiful garden sites as you float along. You can leave from the Christchurch Visitor's Centre in the central city and stop off at cafes or restaurants along the way. You may even choose to picnic in the gardens. Hire your own boat and paddle yourself if you prefer—there are several options. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kathleen M. Heideman |
 Photo: David Rawlings |
 Photo: Nicole Ashley |
 Photo: clipper4474 |
 Photo: Roger Colbeck |
 Photo: Mariko Walton |
 Photo: richardarchbold |
 Photo: Kent Jordan |
 Photo: Paula Funnell |
 Photo: twobears_ |
 Photo: Ivan Karajas |
 Photo: chessap |
 Photo: Joelle Collier |
 Photo: Susan D. Daniels |
 Photo: Hollandaise2005 |
 Photo: Marvon Watson |
 Photo: Fred |
 Photo: Aaron Driver |
 Photo: Daniel Edwards |
 Photo: dubsnevets |
 Photo: martillada |
 Photo: Rod |
 Photo: Dave Lodge |
 Photo: leigh_fish |
 Photo: anastacea |
 Photo: Courtney Patterson |
 Photo: erikdg |
 Photo: John Virag |
 Photo: Steve Ladd |
 Photo: Rita |
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Beach, walks, and history |
Lyttelton Harbour Cruises, B Jetty Lyttelton Christchurch 8012 New Zealand +64 (0)3 328 8368 |
Mix together the following ingredients: a boat trip, two excellent walking circuits, a beach, a picnic, and a dash of history. Bake for half a day. The result? A perfect family excursion! Quail Island, in Christchurch's Lyttelton harbour, was once a leper colony and quarantine station. Now managed by the Department of Conservation, you can reach it by ferry from the Lyttelton marina. Bring your own lunch and explore the island's natural and historical features by foot. Suitable for most ages, although the terrain is not suitable for pushchairs. Pay either on the boat (cash only) or at the marina. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate Bodger |
 Photo: Simon Cobb |
 Photo: Dominik 2008 |
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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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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 |
 Old English style |
52 Armagh St Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 3 366 1503 http://www.windsorhotel.co.nz |
The Windsor offers cosy accommodation at affordable rates, in the heart of the city. Only 600 meters from Cathedral Square and other city facilities, this family-operated hotel was built at the turn of the century and specializes in friendly hospitality. Look out onto Cranmer Square while you enjoy an English-style cooked breakfast. Just hop on the tram to attractions like the casino, museum, botanical gardens, cafes, and restaurants. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: sammijk |