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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 |
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 Photo: Louise Harrison |
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A little piece of England by the river |
2 Cambridge Terrace Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 5885 http://www.boatsheds.co.nz |
The quaint, English-style, wooden boat sheds on the banks of the Avon River (Otakaro) are a reminder of yesteryear. Built in 1882 by two boatbuilders, the distinctive green-and-white striped, rustic boat sheds continue to launch vessels onto the water, although the clientele today are more likely to be novice canoeists. You can hire a punt or boat to head upstream to the Botanic Gardens, or watch the flotilla from the popular cafe, which serves breakfast and brunch from 7a daily. Caters for cocktail parties and children's birthdays. Check website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Salomon |
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Cultural heart of the city |
Worcester Boulevard Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 0989 http://www.artscentre.org.nz |
The quintessential cultural venue of the city is housed within grand Gothic Revival buildings and linked by a maze of courtyards. Originally the Canterbury University College, the buildings were gifted to the people of Christchurch in 1974 for use as a community arts centre. It is now a gathering place for artists, craftspeople and performers, with more than 40 shops, galleries, artists and artisans' studios, cafes, theatres, cinemas, restaurants and bars. During the weekends, it hosts a bustling arts and crafts market. The Centre is also the site for festivals and live events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: April Guenther |
 Photo: April Guenther |
 Photo: Rick Gould |
 Photo: Matt Greenham |
 Photo: Matt Greenham |
 Photo: Mike Riversdale |
 Photo: Ana Paula Lima |
 Photo: Tonya Stumphauzer |
 Photo: Amy Warrick |
 Photo: Mark Duttweiler |
 Photo: Tim Riggott |
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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 |
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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 |
 Explore rugged Banks Peninsula |
PO Box 54 Akaroa Christchurch 8161 New Zealand +63 (0)3 304 7612 http://www.bankstrack.co.nz/ |
Explore the varied beauty of Banks Peninsula on this award-winning walk. Your journey will take you along spectacular headlands, past sheltered bays and nature reserves, through native forest and farmlands. Cosy huts and cottages provide accommodation along the way, with the chance to "bathe under the stars" at Stony Bay. Both two-day and four-day walks are available, but due to the rugged terrain, a reasonable level of fitness is required. As a private walk, bookings are essential. The season is open from 1 October to 30 April. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dan Clem |
 Photo: Rick Verhoef |
 Photo: sunbabe09 |
 Photo: Dafydd Williams |
 Photo: Jonathan Keelty |
 Photo: solarthermienator |
 Photo: sage of shui |
 Photo: Jan Raimers |
 Photo: bigtrippers |
 Photo: Clementine's Shoes |
 Photo: Peter Skov |
 Photo: Sam Rapson |
 Spectacular year-round displays |
Rolleston Avenue Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 1701 http://www.ccc.govt.nz/Parks/G... |
Bordered by the graceful Avon River, the Botanic Gardens truly reflects Christchurch's reputation as the garden city. It boasts the finest single collection of exotic and indigenous plants in New Zealand, with spectacular year-round displays and more than 30 hectares of walking tracks, majestic trees, sweeping lawns, feature gardens, conservatories and woodland areas. Specimens are well labelled and sure to delight even the most reluctant gardener. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Deatrick |
 Photo: Allan Rae |
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 Photo: Trish Loughman |
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Settlers' route over Port Hills |
Lyttelton Christchurch 8012 New Zealand +64 (0)3 328 9093 (Lyttelton Information Centre) |
This historic track was hastily built in January 1851 to provide settlers with a route over the Port Hills. A road to Sumner was supposed to have been completed before the arrival of the "First Four Ships", but lack of funds stalled its completion until 1857. From Bridle Path Road, Lyttelton, the track climbs steeply up the scrubby face passing several benches where you can rest your legs, and imagine the early settlers lugging their belongings over the hill to the swampland below. At the Summit Road there is a shelter then the track descends gradually into the Heathcote Valley through scattered eucalyptus and pine groves. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: parrcath |
 Photo: criemil |
 Photo: Adam Smith |
 A wealth of local heritage on display |
Rolleston Avenue Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 5000 http://www.canterburymuseum.com |
The museum dates back to 1870, and features seven buildings containing numerous displays, including the Antarctic, archaeological and Victorian collections. There are also changing special exhibits and "hands-on" displays. The seven bukldings do create a bewildering "rabbit warren" of spaces, so allow plenty of time for your visit. It is worth visiting the café, which overlooks the Botanical Gardens. Located close to the city and adjacent to the Arts Centre and the Avon river, you can either walk or catch a city tram. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jen Tidman |
 Photo: Karl Monaghan |
 Photo: ronancrowley |
 Photo: Tim Chadwick |
 Photo: David Glover |
 Photo: cedartree_13 |
 Photo: Dave Spitzer |
 Colonial seat of government |
Corner of Durham and Armagh Sts Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 941 7680 http://www.ccc.govt.nz/Christc... |
Built in 1858, Christchurch's wooden and stone, colonial Provincial Council Buildings housed the first European-styled government in Canterbury, (one of ten New Zealand self-governing districts at that time), for eighteen years. In the early days of the colony, government fragmentation was necessary due to widely scattered settlements and communication difficulties. New Zealand's only purpose-built provincial council buildings to have survived to the present day, these striking buildings with long wooden corridors and stone floors, are a fine example of Victorian gothic-revival architecture. Today the building is the home of the Historic Places Trust. Tours: Guided tours are free, however, telephone first to arrange a suitable time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: N Emmanuel-Emile |
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Centre of the garden city |
Colombo Street Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9629 (Christchurch Information Centre) |
Cathedral Square, dominated by the Anglican Cathedral, marks the heart of the city. It is at the centre of the "four avenues" that form the boundaries of inner Christchurch. Around the Square are several historic buildings, including the old city post office. There are also restaurants, bars, cinemas and quality hotels. The Square is a popular venue for public orators and entertainers, and from November to April a stage for local icon and speaker, the Wizard. There are regular markets and several food-stalls. A place to pause and check out what is happening. All major bus routes converge here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Beau Wade |
 Photo: Megan Sloan |
 Photo: redking |
 Photo: Andy Piper |
 Photo: Sonya Barbour |
 Photo: Lee LeFever |
 Photo: Cathy |
 Photo: J.C. Lam |
 Photo: Mike Lobban |
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 Christchurch's ecclesiastical heart |
Cathedral Square Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 0046 http://www.christchurchcathedr... |
The ecclesiastical and secular heart of Christchurch, the cathedral symbolises the aspirations of Canterbury's founders. Designed by English architect George Gilbert Scott (who never visited New Zealand), the building was started in 1865, but was not completed until 1881. As you enter the nave, look heavenwards to a soaring, open-timbered matai (native black pine) ceiling. The west end features an ornate rose window above seven mosaic panels. The marble tomb of Bishop Harper, the first Anglican Primate, stands in the north transept, while a flotilla of immigrant ships sails in the tiled floor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Elizabeth Perry |
 Photo: Lucy Andrews |
 Photo: Dayna Bateman |
 Photo: Mark Riley |
 Photo: genvessel |
 Photo: rosalind_grace |
 Photo: 1garysan |
 Photo: Brigette Pierce |
 Photo: skoestr |
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 Photo: Steve Lawrence |
 Photo: Chris Wahlen |
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 Photo: Katie Bell |
 Photo: Steve Oldham |
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New Zealand's oldest school |
Rolleston Ave Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 5570 http://www.christscollege.com |
The gothic stone buildings of Christ's College, New Zealand's oldest school, reflect Christchurch's strong early-settler links with England. First planned in 1850, this prestigious independent school has all the hallmarks of a traditional English public school. Inside the school grounds, visitors can see the striking architectural features of the dining hall, the chapel, the hospital tower and the "big school", where pupils were taught in the early days. The 620 boys, many of them boarders, who attend the school wear distinctive black and white striped uniforms. With the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park as its backyard, stately Christ's College is just a short walk from the Square. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert Coleman |
 Photo: Stephanie Bain |
 Photo: Robb Tyson |
 Photo: Blake Smith |
 Photo: Lynne Knight |
 Photo: Brian Berliner |
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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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Working Edwardian village |
Ferrymead Park Dr Christchurch 8002 New Zealand +64 (0)3 384 1970 http://www.ferrymead.org.nz |
For a genuine time warp, visit this historic theme park. From the car park, catch a tram or steam train and alight, feeling curiously out of place, in an Edwardian township complete with residents in period costume. Children of all ages will love the working cooperage and blacksmiths, the horse and cart, and the fascinating details of the post office, the bakery, jail, schoolhouse and cobblers. There are also two museums--the Hall of Flame (fire engines) and the Hall of Wheels (transport). Check website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Geof Wilson |
 Photo: Geof Wilson |
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Christchurch's premier park |
Riccarton Avenue Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 941 8999 (Tourist Information) http://www.ccc.govt.nz/parks/H... |
Magnificent Hagley Park, where Christchurch folk walk, jog and play, covers 161 hectares of the inner city. Almost every sporting activity imaginable is played here, from petanque to New Zealand's national game, rugby. In summer, outdoor concerts are held in this English-style park, with its many large, beautiful trees. Declared a public reserve in 1856 by European settlers, city laws state that the park must remain intact. Features include a fitness track, an outstanding springtime woodland area, a perimeter track for walkers and joggers, Lakes Victoria and Albert, a golf course, a quaint band rotunda, tennis and netball courts and a cricket pavilion which is believed to be the oldest in the southern hemisphere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kebabette |
 Photo: Christian Morley |
 Photo: Sandy Fish |
 Photo: Maureen Pierre |
 Photo: Angela Lee |
 Photo: kebabette |
 Photo: Wayne Roddom |
 Photo: Alasdair Milne |
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 Photo: Alasdair Milne |
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 Photo: Mike Campbell |
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A pretty, winding river |
Cashmere Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 941 6874 (City Council Parks Unit) |
Flowing between grassy banks lined with mature English trees--oak, ash, weeping willow and alders--this lovely river winds around the foot of the Port Hills through quiet, leafy suburbs. The river was the last obstacle to be negotiated by early settlers after their grueling walk over the Port Hills from Lyttelton, and later, numerous ferries operated along its length. Spanned by footbridges and the occasional road bridge, the easy gradient of the riverbank is perfect for cyclists or strollers. As it nears the Heathcote/Avon Estuary the river becomes tidal, with tussock and flax growing along its banks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Underhill |
 Photo: Chris Underhill |
 Photo: Lucy Rees |
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Picturesque deep-water harbour |
Rapaki Christchurch 8012 New Zealand +64 (0)3 328 9093 (Lyttelton Information Centre) |
Originally named Port Cooper by the Canterbury Association, this long harbor, indented with hundreds of coves and bays, stretches deep into Banks Peninsula from Godley Head to Teddington. The "First Four Ships" bearing settlers arrived here in 1850, and the Port of Lyttelton became the main gateway for Canterbury's exports. Take a boat ride to Diamond Harbor, or some of the other historic landmarks in the harbor. For a spectacular view, head up Sumner Road to Windy Rock Point. The busy wharves of Cashin Quay lie directly below, and a plane table identifies distant landmarks on Banks Peninsula. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jason Hindle |
 Photo: Bjarni Thorbjornsson |
 Photo: Kate Bodger |
 Photo: francoisNZ |
 Photo: J Montagu |
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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 |
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A slice of history |
16 Kahu Rd Riccarton Christchurch New Zealand +64 (0)3 348 4277 http://www.riccartonhouse.co.nz |
This 30-acre reserve comprises native bush and historic buildings, bordered by the Avon River. Learn about local history as you walk through the bush and visit the homesteads. Find out about the early settlement of Christchurch, and pioneers such as William and John Deans who built their cottage here in 1843. Native birds are plentiful and some of the bush has been here for hundreds of years. An information brochure provides good historical detail and will add to your visit. This unique site is merely 3.5 kilometres from the city centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Riversdale |
 Photo: Sarah Goldsworthy |
 Photo: Sarah Frost |
 Photo: filippo_jean |
 Photo: Mick Bates |
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The church north of the river |
Cnr Manchester & Kilmore Sts Central City Christchurch 8001 New Zealand +64 (0)3 366 2253 http://www.stlukesinthecity.or... |
Designed by B.W. Mountfort, the architect behind many of the city's ecclesiastical buildings, this magnificent Gothic Revival church was built in 1908 to replace the original wooden church. Although the outer walls are of black Halswell stone, the interior is clad in rich red brick finished with white Oamaru limestone; the change from stone to brick is striking. A lofty open-timbered roof soars overhead, supported by stout brick piers. A painting of the Ascension hangs above the altar, and a statue of Our Lady, carved in Italy, adorns the Side Chapel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Christchurch's most picturesque beach |
The Esplanade Sumner Christchurch 8008 New Zealand +64 (0)3 379 9629 (Christchurch & Canterbury Visitors Centre) |
Generations of Cantabrians (locals) have promenaded down the Esplanade, which overlooks this idyllic stretch of ocean, renowned for safe swimming and good surfing. Dominating this patrolled beach is Cave Rock, a protrusion of volcanic stone through which the sea has eroded a large cavern. At low tide you can walk right through the cave to an assortment of limpet-encrusted rock pools, each one a tiny, self-contained ecosystem. Beware of deep holes scoured around some rocks. Toilets and changing sheds are available. There are also plenty of cafes and stores on The Esplanade and in nearby Sumner village. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gary Korhonen |
 Photo: womenshouldntwearclothes |
 Photo: Amie LaRouche |