Our apologies: your internet browser is not yet fully supported by our Schmap online guides. If you continue, pages in this guide may display or function incorrectly.

Would you like to continue anyway?continue anyway

Schmap.com supports the following browsers:

PC

MAC Christchurch - Orientation
Download the Schmap Christchurch Guide
With Schmap 2.0 you can:
Christchurch Home
Schmap Christchurch guide and map

To get your bearings, take a ride on the City Loop Tramway, or hop aboard the free Shuttle bus which circumnavigates the central city--you can get on and off both services as often as the mood takes you (do not miss the stop for the Canterbury Visitor Information Centre). From the bus terminus in Cathedral Square, buses run to every corner of the city. For an overview of the city, ride the Christchurch Gondola to the summit of Mt Cavendish on the Port Hills. For a unique view of the city, try a hot air balloon ride with Aoraki Balloon Safaris or a flight in a classic DC10 aircraft with Pionair.

Explorer Tourline and Christchurch Sightseeing Tours offer introductory bus tours of the city and surrounding areas, while Canterbury Leisure Tours also offers excursions to Kaikoura for whale-watching, pelagic bird-watching, and swimming with seals; Mount Cook/Aoraki, the alpine thermal resort of Hanmer Springs; and the historic French settlement of Akaroa. A railway journey not to be missed is the TranzAlpine Experience, taking you across the mountainous spine of the South Island to the rainforests of the West Coast.







Copyright 1999-2005 Wcities, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Contact Wcities

Akaroa


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
Akaroa photo by jun_0418_sheep
Photo: jun_0418_sheep
Akaroa photo by jun_0418_sheep
Photo: jun_0418_sheep
Akaroa photo by Lenin JR
Photo: Lenin JR
Akaroa photo by Steve Thibodeau
Photo: Steve Thibodeau
Akaroa photo by Monia Voegelin
Photo: Monia Voegelin
Akaroa photo by Jaci J
Photo: Jaci J
Akaroa photo by King Wei YONG
Photo: King Wei YONG
Akaroa photo by Stuart Barnard
Photo: Stuart Barnard
Akaroa photo by C.Bolte&M.Strickler
Photo: C.Bolte&M.Strickler
Akaroa photo by Regina Huttner
Photo: Regina Huttner
Akaroa photo by Bamma Mellott
Photo: Bamma Mellott
Akaroa photo by Daniel Bosma
Photo: Daniel Bosma
Akaroa photo by J Dub!!
Photo: J Dub!!
Akaroa photo by Steve Shand
Photo: Steve Shand
Akaroa photo by Kirsty Mallett
Photo: Kirsty Mallett
Akaroa photo by scott & zoe
Photo: scott & zoe
Akaroa photo by Maarten & Corrie
Photo: Maarten & Corrie
Akaroa photo by Myke and Sarah Hines
Photo: Myke and Sarah Hines
Akaroa photo by Gillian Mee
Photo: Gillian Mee
Akaroa photo by Neesa Pizza
Photo: Neesa Pizza
Akaroa photo by Louise Harrison
Photo: Louise Harrison
Akaroa photo by Stephen Peter
Photo: Stephen Peter
Akaroa photo by Emma McCleary
Photo: Emma McCleary
 

 
Canterbury Leisure Tours


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
 

 
Cathedral Square


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
Cathedral Square photo by Beau Wade
Photo: Beau Wade
Cathedral Square photo by Megan Sloan
Photo: Megan Sloan
Cathedral Square photo by redking
Photo: redking
Cathedral Square photo by Andy Piper
Photo: Andy Piper
Cathedral Square photo by Sonya Barbour
Photo: Sonya Barbour
Cathedral Square photo by Lee LeFever
Photo: Lee LeFever
Cathedral Square photo by Cathy
Photo: Cathy
Cathedral Square photo by J.C. Lam
Photo: J.C. Lam
Cathedral Square photo by Mike Lobban
Photo: Mike Lobban
Cathedral Square photo by Dave Schumaker
Photo: Dave Schumaker
Cathedral Square photo by lungsforgills.com
Photo: lungsforgills.com
Cathedral Square photo by Benedict Leong
Photo: Benedict Leong
Cathedral Square photo by Helen Pickford
Photo: Helen Pickford
Cathedral Square photo by Volker
Photo: Volker
Cathedral Square photo by Sebastien Krebs
Photo: Sebastien Krebs
Cathedral Square photo by Alan Macfarlane
Photo: Alan Macfarlane
Cathedral Square photo by juuitsu watanabe
Photo: juuitsu watanabe
Cathedral Square photo by Christopher Warren
Photo: Christopher Warren
Cathedral Square photo by richard valentin
Photo: richard valentin
Cathedral Square photo by James Weller
Photo: James Weller
Cathedral Square photo by Sam Lockton
Photo: Sam Lockton
Cathedral Square photo by Sylvia Lin
Photo: Sylvia Lin
Cathedral Square photo by Joshua Chan
Photo: Joshua Chan
Cathedral Square photo by Alex Davis
Photo: Alex Davis
Cathedral Square photo by Greg Wood
Photo: Greg Wood
Cathedral Square photo by bernarda58
Photo: bernarda58
Cathedral Square photo by Cat T
Photo: Cat T
Cathedral Square photo by susanadel
Photo: susanadel
Cathedral Square photo by The Gimme Fund
Photo: The Gimme Fund
Cathedral Square photo by stephanie swanson
Photo: stephanie swanson
Cathedral Square photo by Katrina Adang
Photo: Katrina Adang
Cathedral Square photo by HUI-CHING CHENG
Photo: HUI-CHING CHENG
 

 
Christchurch Gondola


Panoramic views of Canterbury
10 Bridle Path Rd
(Heathcote Valley)
Christchurch 8002
New Zealand
+64 (0)3 384 0700
http://www.gondola.co.nz
Rising 945 metres to the top of the Port Hills, the Christchurch Gondola provides truly panoramic views. To the west, Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps. To the east and south lies Banks Peninsula, with Lyttleton Harbour and Lake Ellesmere further afield. To the north, you can see across to Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The Gondola complex itself sits on the crater rim of Christchurch's extinct volcano. Along with an observation deck, the complex houses a multimedia Time Tunnel, a cafe and restaurant, and a souvenir shop. Check website for further details.

Review © 2007, Wcities
Christchurch Gondola photo by Ed McCauley
Photo: Ed McCauley
Christchurch Gondola photo by Rick Gould
Photo: Rick Gould
Christchurch Gondola photo by Christine Salek
Photo: Christine Salek
Christchurch Gondola photo by Chris Lilley
Photo: Chris Lilley
Christchurch Gondola photo by Alyssa Umsawasdi
Photo: Alyssa Umsawasdi
Christchurch Gondola photo by Dianna Narotski
Photo: Dianna Narotski
Christchurch Gondola photo by Chris Underhill
Photo: Chris Underhill
Christchurch Gondola photo by Dianna Narotski
Photo: Dianna Narotski
Christchurch Gondola photo by Rhiannon Jones
Photo: Rhiannon Jones
Christchurch Gondola photo by Dan Nelson
Photo: Dan Nelson
Christchurch Gondola photo by Wagner Silveira
Photo: Wagner Silveira
Christchurch Gondola photo by Ray Cauayani
Photo: Ray Cauayani
Christchurch Gondola photo by Nadia Bryan
Photo: Nadia Bryan
Christchurch Gondola photo by Andy O'Brien
Photo: Andy O'Brien
Christchurch Gondola photo by Drew Graham
Photo: Drew Graham
Christchurch Gondola photo by Jason and Dana Stephens
Photo: Jason and Dana Stephens
Christchurch Gondola photo by Keith Buchness
Photo: Keith Buchness
Christchurch Gondola photo by irene c.
Photo: irene c.
Christchurch Gondola photo by Con Ryan
Photo: Con Ryan
Christchurch Gondola photo by A. T. Tafari
Photo: A. T. Tafari
Christchurch Gondola photo by Eri Fujita
Photo: Eri Fujita
Christchurch Gondola photo by Tamara Mierla
Photo: Tamara Mierla
Christchurch Gondola photo by bethanyadams22
Photo: bethanyadams22
Christchurch Gondola photo by Dave Brown
Photo: Dave Brown
Christchurch Gondola photo by nadia rahim
Photo: nadia rahim
Christchurch Gondola photo by farmfoto
Photo: farmfoto
Christchurch Gondola photo by kristie c cornell
Photo: kristie c cornell
 

 
Christchurch Sightseeing Tours


Introducing Christchurch City
PO Box 142
Lyttleton
Christchurch 8012
New Zealand
+64 (0)3 366 9660
http://www.christchurchtours.c...
This tour of the city is perfect for the traveller seeking a quick orientation tour of Christchurch and its best known landmarks. Starting with the Central City, the tour touches on many of the city's major features, including Hagley Park and Mona Vale gardens, as well as crossing over the Summit Road to take in the port of Lyttelton and Sumner Beach. A full commentary accompanies the tour, and there are several stops with complimentary tea and coffee. A great way to get a feel for the city and its regions.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Christchurch Tramway


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
Christchurch Tramway photo by Alyssa Umsawasdi
Photo: Alyssa Umsawasdi
Christchurch Tramway photo by Hiroyuki Mori
Photo: Hiroyuki Mori
Christchurch Tramway photo by Mariko Walton
Photo: Mariko Walton
Christchurch Tramway photo by Hiroyuki Mori
Photo: Hiroyuki Mori
Christchurch Tramway photo by Fred
Photo: Fred
Christchurch Tramway photo by Alyssa Umsawasdi
Photo: Alyssa Umsawasdi
Christchurch Tramway photo by Antoine Hubert
Photo: Antoine Hubert
Christchurch Tramway photo by Karen
Photo: Karen
Christchurch Tramway photo by Michael Tolich
Photo: Michael Tolich
Christchurch Tramway photo by tamas.decsi
Photo: tamas.decsi
Christchurch Tramway photo by Grace Cuenca
Photo: Grace Cuenca
Christchurch Tramway photo by Elaine Deegan
Photo: Elaine Deegan
 

 
Explorer Tourline Ltd.


Tours of city attractions
P.O. Box 5585
Christchurch
New Zealand
+64 (0)3 354 0262
Enjoy all the sights of Christchurch from the comfort of a coach. This includes guided tours of the Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Museum, Arts Centre and Mona Vale. You can enjoy spectacular, city and harbour views from the Port Hills and visit popular spots like Sumner. Tours also visit Lyttelton with the option of a gondola ride. The tour will collect you from and return you to your hotel free of charge. Alternative tour options are available on request.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Pionair Adventures Ltd


Sightseeing in style
The Tower, Wigram Airfield
Main South Rd
Christchurch 8004
New Zealand
+64 (0)3 343 3333
http://www.pionair.com.au
For panoramic views of Christchurch, go back in time and step aboard Pionair's classic Douglas DC-3 airliner. Built in 1943 for the US Air Force, this beautifully restored 28 seat aircraft has regular sightseeing flights over the city and surrounding districts. Pionair offers two regularly scheduled flights--the 20 minute DC-3 City Scenic over the Garden City and the longer, more idyllic Champagne Flight over Christchurch and Lyttleton Harbour (includes bubbly and hors d'oeuvres). The DC-3 is also available for corporate functions, tours and charters. Check website for further details.

Review © 2007, Wcities
 

 
Other Schmapplets in this city related to "Christchurch - Orientation"
Christchurch - Top Attractions
Christchurch - Top Events
Christchurch - Top Hotels
Christchurch - Top Restaurants
Christchurch - Top Nightlife
Christchurch - To Bike or Hike
Christchurch - Over the Hill
Christchurch - Proud to be Green
Christchurch - Maritime Escapades
Christchurch - Thrills & Spills

Other nearby cities:
Wellington (306 miles)
Auckland (764 miles)
Hobart (2046 miles)
Sydney (2142 miles)
Canberra (2211 miles)
Melbourne (2404 miles)
Brisbane (2497 miles)
Adelaide (3062 miles)
Perth (5057 miles)
Hawaii (7749 miles)

Schmap.com
About
News & Reviews
Travel Store
Privacy
Terms of Use
Contact Us
© 2008 Schmap, Inc. All rights reserved.