Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism

Traveller Information

Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand and the country's second-largest urban area. The Maori name for Christchurch, New Zealand is Otautahi.

It's one of the world's most liveable cities, combining provincial charm and genuine hospitality with the energy of a metropolis. Modern bars and galleries complement Gothic architecture and award-winning gardens; locals are lucky to find all the advantages of a city with the relaxed ambience of a small town.

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.

History of Christchurch

1500 - 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.

1770 - Captain James Cook in the "Endeavour" sighted Banks "Island" Peninsula.

1825-1828 - Civil War amongst the Ngai Tahu peoples reduced the Maori population in Canterbury to around 2,500.

1850 - The first 792 pilgrims arrived in Lyttelton Harbour, the beginning of British settlement.

1856 - 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.

Maori Culture

The country's largest marae, Nga Hau e Wha, is in Christchurch, located at 250 Pages Road.

Orientation

200x200-sign-of-the-kiwi

The heart of Christchurch City is Cathedral Square, which is surrounded by several favourite zones for dining, shopping and exploring. The Cultural Precinct features SOL Square, the Arts Centre, Court Theatre, art galleries and Botanic Gardens. Historic Worcester Boulevard leads from Cathedral Junction to Canterbury Museum and these award-winning gardens, which neighbour spacious Hagley Park (164 hectares).

The central city is bound by "Four Avenues" - within these it's walking distance to key city attractions as well as the city's key sporting venue, AMI Stadium, where rugby, cricket and concerts are held. The Avon River winds through the centre of town and The Terrace dining and nightlife looks out onto its banks. The Arts Centre (former Canterbury University site with its enclave of Gothic revival buildings) hosts a popular weekend market, as does Poplar Lane, with its Sunday French Farmers Market, international cuisine, traditional microbrewery and boutique shops.

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, this 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.

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.

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

Christchurch city is one of the easiest cities in the world to get around. Its grid-like road system is easy to follow, and free shuttle buses link CBD attractions. 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.

Christchurch Accommodation

Christchurch and Canterbury has an excellent range of accommodation, from award-winning hotels and Qualmark-rated motels, to luxury bed & breakfast accommodation, and budget-friendly hotels and holiday parks.

Christchurch Shopping 200x200-shopping

High Street, Victoria Street ("The Mile of Style"), SOL Square, Poplar Lane, New Regent Street, City Mall and Cashel Mall are amongst the city's central shopping districts.

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.

Located conveniently in Cathedral Square (in the old post office building, on the south side of the Square, next to Starbucks). We offer a comprehensive information service and booking centre for visitors to Christchurch and Canterbury.

Phone: 03 379 9629

Fax: 03 377 2424

E-mail: info@christchurchnz.com

Cruise Ship Visitors

Cruise ship visitors arrive in the Port of Lyttelton and are welcomed by Christchurch's Town Crier! Christchurch city centre is only a short taxi or bus trip from the port, and there are so many different ways you can spend the day. Hanmer Springs alpine spa village and the French-inspired Akaroa are particularly popular day trips for cruise ship visitors.

Quick Links

Here are some important links to information that will help you enjoy your trip to New Zealand.

Department of Conservation

Health

Currency

Driving

Driving Distances

Public Transport

Christchurch International Airport

In an emergency in New Zealand, dial 111. Please be aware that there are penalties for dialling this number in circumstances other than a genuine emergency.