Christchurch (the garden city) the South Islands largest (650,000 citizens) - very English like, here the Riverside Market is well worth time, Little High Eatery, also the Curators House restaurant (more formal) in the beautiful Botanical gardens is highly recommended for evening dining. They have their very own vegetable garden out back beside the lovely tranquil Avon river.
Punting on the delightful Avon river is fun while here. Also, the Tram (very good commentary) New Regent street is well worth a visit. The Canterbury Museum and Art gallery are close by. Our brand new Danish style Turangi library is fascinating and recommended, it's very inter active and "state of the art" - like no other! Te Pae is very impressive indeed, also brand new it’s our Convention Centre.
The Christchurch Gondola is well worth time (not the Adventure park Gondola!) just 20 minutes from the central city with 360 degree views, Southern Alps, South Pacific ocean, Lyttelton harbour and Christchurch city below.
Christchurch central city has been rebuilt (90% completed) after the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011.
