Stately and sedate, Christchurch has a genteel English atmosphere, magnificent gardens and a river named Avon upon which to punt. Christchurch is a garden city on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, set on the Canterbury Plains. Flat-bottomed punts glide on the Avon River, which runs through the city center. On its banks are cycling paths, the green expanse of Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. It is also known as the gateway to New Zealands South Island. Vibrant and ever evolving. In 2010 and 2011, 2 major earthquakes destroyed many city-center buildings, and restoration work continues.
Christchurch City Sights Tour
You will be collected from your accommodation, the tour then travels through the University of Canterbury, down to Riccarton House and Bush and then through Monavale Gardens where you will have a chance to have a short stroll with 5.5 hectares of richly landscaped gardens, ponds and fountains. The tour then continues into the central city, through Hagley park, the boat sheds, Botanical Gardens Arts Centre in the historic Buildings that were once Canterbury University, past the Museum, Art Galley and Victoria Clock Tower before moving on to the Catholic Basillica, then onto the seaside suburb of Sumner, then to Lyttleton Harbour, a volcanic crater which is now the port of Christchurch. The tour then ends with a visit to the Sign of the Takahe, situated on the volcanic ridges of the cashmere hills, provides spectacular views of the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps, you will be then returned to your accommodation.
From $53 per person
The International Antarctic Centre
Very few people have the opportunity to experience the awesome and magical beauty of Antarctica first-hand. An interactive, fun and exciting experience of the “Great White South”.Feel the chill of winter and watch daylight return as the Antarctic summer approaches after four months of darkness. Find out about Scott Base, and experience Antarctic conditions first-hand .. even on a hot summer’s day! Slide down a snow slope, explore a snow cave, feel icy wind-chills, or just let your body tingle with the exhilaration of being in Antarctic temperatures! Located 6 miles from the city centre, at Christchurch International Airport.
From $39 per person
Punting on the Avon River
Welcome aboard Punting on the Avon, authentic Edwardian punt rides along the Avon River. Punting on the Avon has been one of Christchurch’s iconic attractions since 1986. Come aboard a classic punt at the historic Antigua Boatshed Landing and an Edwardian punter will guide you quietly past trailing willows, woodlands and the leafy banks of the Botanic Gardens. Punting on the Avon offers 30 minutes punt rides.
From $21 per person
