Bordered by hills and the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is the gateway to the South Island of New Zealand, particularly on the east coast and the edge of the Canterbury Plains. The Avon River runs through the city center, and on its banks, you will find cycling paths that runs through the green expanse of the Hagley Park and the city’s Botanic Gardens. Considering the things that this place has to offer, it is truly a fantastic choice of destination for your next sightseeing trip.
Sightseeing destinations in Christchurch
The city was established by Anglican English settlers in 1850, and today, such a heritage is shown in the older structures, especially the neo-gothic buildings you will find in the cultural precinct along Rolleston Ave and Worcester Boulevard. As for the River Avon, it winds through the central part of the city and its lively streets. In its suburbs, you will be fascinated by the number of trees growing like a forest. After all, Christchurch is not called the Garden City for nothing.
Top tour activities in Christchurch
As you will have many things to do in this lush city, your trip here will be something that will be fun and memorable.
- Explore the Summit Road - You can do this by driving, cycling or taking a bus, and then walking. Together with the Crater Rim Walkway, this road traverses the crest of the Port Hills that which separate the city from Lyttelton Harbour. During the trip, you will have breathtaking views over the city, Pegasus Bay, Southern Alps and Banks Peninsula, all of which you can enjoy viewing from the same vantage point.
- Ride a punt on the Avon River - Punting on this beautiful waterway is an iconic attraction in Christchurch that you should not miss. Mostly, this tour lasts for 30 minutes, with informative commentary.
- Take a gondola ride - During this ride, you will be able to enjoy spectacular 360-degree views across the Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, the harbor and the city itself. You will also experience the Time Tunnel and dine at the Red Rock Café.
- Swim with rare dolphins - Cruise on an extinct volcanic Akaroa Harbour and the waters of Banks Peninsula, where you will get the chance to swim with some of the rarest dolphins in the world.
Top tour attractions in Christchurch
Make the most of your sightseeing trip to Christchurch by visiting the best attractions the city offers.
- Botanic Gardens - It will be a consummate experience to stroll through these gardens that covers 30 hectares of riverside land of floral and arboreal splendor. Though often beautiful at any time of the year, the gardens are especially impressive in spring when the azaleas, rhododendrons and daffodil woodlands are in full bloom.
- Christchurch Art Gallery - Damaged in the 2011 earthquakes, this fantastic art gallery has reopened bolder and brighter, showcasing a stimulating combination of mainly Kiwi exhibitions.
- International Antarctic Centre - This is part of a huge complex constructed for the New Zealand, US and Italian Antarctic administration programs, this center will give you the opportunity see penguins and learn about the icy continent. Another attraction here is the Antarctic Storm chamber.
Christchurch sightseeing tours and activities
For a complete holiday experience in this city, check out all Christchurch sightseeing tours and activities here at La Vacanza Travel.