Official Visitor Information
The series of earthquakes that affected Christchurch in 2011
should not stop people from holidaying in Canterbury and the South
Island.
Part of the central city of Christchurch is still cordoned off
to the general public to ensure people's safety while safety checks
and the clearing of damaged areas takes place. This cordon is
gradually receding as more of the city is deemed safe and open for
business. It is likely that some isolated parts of the city will
remain behind cordons for some time while rebuilding takes
place.
Christchurch remains the gateway to the amazing experiences that
are on offer in the Canterbury region and the wider
South Island.
View the latest Official Update.
About Christchurch
Climate
Christchurch and Canterbury has a dry, temperate climate. In
January, the middle of summer, the mean daily maximum air
temperature is 22.5° C (72.5° F). In July, the middle of winter,
the mean daily temperature is 11.3° C (52.3° F). A classic Christchurch and Canterbury
weather pattern is the "nor'wester" - a hot fohn wind that
occasionally reaches storm force, and creates a dramatic arch of
cloud against the summer sky.
Christchurch International Airport
Christchurch
International Airport is New Zealand's tourism gateway. It is
serviced by several domestic airlines flying to key destinations
around New Zealand. Located only 15 minutes' drive (12km) northwest
of the city centre, the airport is currently constructing a new
domestic terminal costing over $200 million.
Getting Around
Bus and shuttle operators link Christchurch and the east coast,
connecting coastal and inland settlements with northern
destinations such as Picton and Nelson, and southern towns like
Dunedin. Operators connect Christchurch to Arthur's Pass, the West Coast and Mt
Cook. Rail options for east coast and coast-to-coast travel are
provided by TranzScenic.
Visitor Information
At the Christchurch i-SITE Visitor Centre,
you'll find local staff brimming with knowledge about the best
things to see and do in the area. From major attractions to hidden
gems off the beaten path, our friendly staff can help plan an
itinerary that works for you, whatever your time and budget.
Healthcare in New Zealand
New Zealand's private and public healthcare facilities provide a
high standard of service and treatment. It's important to note that
these services are not free, except as the result of an accident.
It is strongly recommended that before travelling you invest in
comprehensive travel insurance.
Anybody suffering an injury as the result of an accident in New
Zealand is entitled to assistance under ACC, providing the
accident qualifies under ACC legislation.
For urgent healthcare a number of drop-in medical centres are
available in Christchurch. Please note there is a
charge for these services:
- Bealey Ave Medical Centre, open 24 hours. Corner of Bealey
Avenue and Colombo St. Phone 365 7777
- Moorhouse Medical Centre, open 7 days a week 8am until 8pm.
Located at 3 Pilgrim Place. Phone +64 3 365 7900
- Riccarton Clinic, open 7 days a week 8am until 8pm. Located at
4 Yaldhurst Road. Phone +64 3 343 3661
If you're unsure about whether you require medical help, speak
to a registered nurse for free, at any time, 24 hours a day by
phoning Healthline on 0800 611 116.
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Emergency Services
Ambulance, Police and Fire services can be summoned in an
emergency by dialling 111.
Water
Christchurch has one of the highest
quality water supplies in the world, rated one of the purest and
cleanest water in the world. Untreated, naturally filtered water is
sourced, via more than 50 pumping stations surrounding the city,
from aquifers emanating from the foothills of the Southern
Alps.
Economy
Christchurch's economic core has always been the agricultural
industry. In recent years, a thriving wine industry has evolved
from the Waipara Wine Valley, along with the
beginning of new horticulture industries including olive production
and processing. The proximity of 18 ski areas along with a range of
other local attractions, from wildlife cruises to world-class
wineries, are the reasons why tourism continues to add substantial
economic value to the region.
Cruise Ship Visitors
Akaroa will be the main port
of call for cruise ships visiting Canterbury this season. The
French inspired seaside village located just 83 kilometres from
Christchurch city is known for its picturesque scenery, plentifyful
wildlife, craft stores and cafés.
Just 90 minutes from Akaroa is Christchurch, the largest city in the
South Island. With much on offer Christchurch is a great day trip
option. If you wish to travel to Christchurch and spend your day
there, you have number of options once you ship berths in
Akaroa.
History of Christchurch
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1500
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The original settlers of the Christchurch region were moa
hunters who hunted the moa out of existence. At this time, the
Waitaha tribe migrated to Canterbury from the east coast of the
North Island. They were subjugated by the Ngai Tahu tribe, who
remained in control until the arrival of European settlers.
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1770
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Captain James Cook in the "Endeavour" sighted Banks "Island"
Peninsula.
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1825-1828
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Civil War amongst the Ngai Tahu peoples reduced the Maori
population in Canterbury to around 2,500.
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1850
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The first 792 pilgrims arrived in Lyttelton Harbour, the
beginning of British settlement.
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1856
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Christchurch became a city by Royal Charter, making it the
oldest city in New Zealand. Many of the city's impressive Gothic
buildings date from this period.
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Maori Culture
The country's largest marae, Nga Hau e Wha, is in Christchurch,
located at 250 Pages Road.
Gateway to the Antarctic
Christchurch has a history of involvement
in Antarctic exploration - both Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest
Shackleton used the port of Lyttelton as a departure point for
expeditions.
Quick Links
Here are some important links to information that will help you
enjoy your trip to New Zealand.
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