Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch is a stylish and contemporary city, full of unrivalled natural and architectural beauty – 19th century buildings, majestic trees, extensive gardens, interesting bridges and meandering paths all providing a striking backdrop for the vibrant scene of ever-changing arts, cultural and heritage activities.

Wander through the central city lanes and alleyways of South of Lichfield, Poplar Lane and High Street where you’ll uncover some of Christchurch’s best shopping from high-end fashion to eclectic boutique stores. Take in the variety of rich architecture while you indulge over a cup of espresso and sample delectable cuisine at one of the many restaurants, cafes and bars located in these unique alley precincts. Take a stroll in Hagley Park, the Botanic Gardens and Cathedral Square. Explore the Arts Centre, go punting or canoeing on the Avon River, visit the Antarctic Centre and see live penguins, take a gondola ride to the top of the Port Hills, go swimming or surfing at the beach, relax, recharge, and have fun.

What can I do in Christchurch City?

• Explore Christchurch's cultural heritage in the city’s Cultural Precinct
• View the fine art at The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu that exhibit's New Zealand and international art
• Experience the Canterbury Museum with its excellent cultural and natural collections.
• Enjoy the bustling weekend art and craft market stalls at the Christchurch Art Centre with live street entertainment, music and a multitude of food stalls.
• Spend the afternoon relaxing with a gentle stroll through the wide open space and woodlands of Hagley Park.
• Take a leisurely punt ride along the gentle meandering Avon River and experience the beauty and tranquillity of the botanic gardens.

Climate
Canterbury has warm summers and cool to cold winters. Maximum temperatures in summer are typically in the 27o-33o range. January daytime temperatures could range from 16° - 33o
On some evenings you may need a sweater or jersey and it may be warm, cool or cold. Christchurch and Canterbury can have many seasons in one day! It's best to pack layers so you can add or shed clothing as required.

Money
New Zealand's currency is the NZ dollar.
Roughly 1.00 NZD = 0.57 USD, 0.41 EUR, 51.4 JPY

Traveller’s cheques aren’t necessary since credit cards are widely accepted and ATM machines are plentiful. Don’t worry if you forget something. Christchurch retail stores and malls have everything you need!

What is the time difference from the rest of the world?
New Zealand is one of the first places in the world to see the new day, 12 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). In summer New Zealand uses ‘daylight saving’, with clocks put forward one hour to GMT+13. Daylight saving begins on the last Sunday in September and ends on the first Sunday of the following April, when clocks are put back to GMT+12.

Some helpful Links:

Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism

Christchurch Activities