Christchurch is a graceful city where gardens and architecture still reflect some of the culture and heritage of its European immigrants. Founded in 1850 as a Church of England colony, it is a picturesque mix of the old, the quasi-old and the somewhat new. Expansive parks lend Christchurch the nickname "The Garden City." The Avon River curves through the city and its parks, and you can drift along the river in a punt (a shallow-bottomed boat propelled by a long pole), enjoy a picnic lunch on its banks or just have a nice walk.
The best-known landmark is Christchurch Cathedral, which stands in the heart of the city (climb the spire for a view). Cathedral Square is a lively spot, especially at midday, when a local black-robed character called the Wizard often speaks and performs his antics. In the evening, open-air concerts are sometimes held there.
At the end of Worcester Street are the Canterbury Museum (New Zealand history and Antarctic discovery exhibits) and the Botanic Gardens—both of which are part of huge tree-lined Hagley Park. The Arts Centre is also at the end of Worcester Street. Craftspeople and artists occupy the stone buildings and courtyards that were originally part of the University of Canterbury.
A tram covers about an eight-square-block route, from the cathedral to the Canterbury Museum and Arts Centre. You can also easily walk the same route. If time permits, visit the International Antarctic Centre near the airport or take a gondola ride up to Mount Cavendish (you can hike back down if you're in reasonable form).
For a good day trip, head to Akaroa, a town on the Banks Peninsula that's as French in atmosphere as Christchurch is English. Jet-boat trips through the Waimakariri Gorge are a thrill, and in winter there's good skiing nearby on Mount Hutt and other mountains. But if you're headed for Queenstown, you'll find better outdoor and adventure activities there. Christchurch is 300 mi/480 km northeast of Queenstown by road.
