Smaller, quainter, and a lot more English than other cities around New Zealand, Christchurch is the undisputed capital of New Zealand's South Island. This city is home to one of the country's most charming city centre parks, an imposing cathedral that dominates the city's skyline, and a river that is occupied by punters in the most traditional of English clothing for the most part of the day. Traditions aside, the gateway to the South Island is also extremely lively after dark making it well worth pencilling in an extra day on your itinerary to enjoy its nocturnal activities.
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Download GuideIn Nice Weather there is a nice little re:start shopping mall, and the Botanical Gardens but sadly the Earthquake damage seems to have taken alot of the character and energy from the City.
Insider Tip:Free WiFi at the Re:Start Mall with a coffee is a good way to spend most of the day. Avoid the YMCA if possible!
really enjoyed my one night in Jailhouse, loads of character and good staff - if your going to Christchurch i would highly suggest you stay here!
The Red Zone Bus tour is a must to understand the troubles the city has been under. The containers mall is also interesting to see with a vibrant atmosphere. Botanical gardens were really nice but there is not really much more to do.
Insider Tip:Don't spend more than a day in Christchurch. Do the tour and then walk around the city but apart from that there's not much else to do.
Poor Christchurch. At best, in 2012 and 2013 it represents a place to lay low for a day or two - MAXIMUM - while you plan your next route around the South Island or exit out of NZ. It has few attractions outside of the red zone WHICH YOU OUGHT TO SEE IN ANY EVENT. Typically the weather is good so moving around on foot is ok, but ideally you need a car to get around properly. All that said, the locals were especially friendly, even by Kiwi high standards, so I wish the place nothing but good luck
Insider Tip:Les Mills gym Christchurch is probably the best gym I've ever been to. It had everything. Also Espresso House do very nice coffees.
I was shocked to see how much damage is still left from the earthquake. It was quite the sight to see, but it's a good city overall.
Insider Tip:Watch out for all the construction
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