Christchurch New Zealand

The first thing that strikes you as you leave the Airport and head down Memorial Ave is that it is visually stunning. Known as the garden City Christchurch is the international gateway to the South Island. With a population of just over 350 000, the sense of space is comforting, you feel unrushed and relaxed to explore the stunning landscape.

It is a place where the locals enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle amidst a natural environment world-renowned for its beauty. A growing cosmopolitan ambience also adds a touch of excitement without overt flashiness.
Everywhere there is an understated elegance that speaks of times gone by and promises a future where anything is possible.

Situated in the middle of the four leafy inner-city avenues of the city you will find the 161 hectare Hagley Park, which boasts an urban golf course, the Botanic Gardens, Victoria Square and spectacular gardens of Mona Vale on the banks of the Avon River. It is a vision which is embraced today by proud resident’s right throughout the city.

Must sees' are the weekend Arts Centre market, Christchurch Cathedral, Botanic Gardens and International Antarctic Centre, but if you really want to experience the contrasting way of life for the locals I suggest you take a tour out into the suburbs. Merivale is a great place to start as one of the oldest and affluent suburbs; stunning villas are visible through impeccably manicured hedges and gardens. From here you can travel through Ilam and Riccarton and really get a sense of how the city is put together.

Christchurch has a mild climate. The beautiful beaches of Sumner and New Brighton are a great way to spend a summer’s day, while over the winter, Cantabrians flock to the Southern Alps to enjoy some amazing ski fields.
Plan on spending awhile here, take it slowly and enjoy a slower pace of life.

Jonathon F.