Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand and the seat of the Canterbury Region.
The Christchurch urban area lies on the South Island’s east coast, just north of Banks Peninsula. It is home to 381,800 residents. Following two significant earthquakes in 2010 and 2011and many aftershocks over 1500 buildings in the city have been demolished.
The city has been experiencing rapid growth following the earthquakes, with the central city rebuild, which is outlined in the Christchurch Central Recovery Plan. The city has bounced back after the Canterbury Earthquakes with innovative new attractions, as well as some old favorites.
Visit the Re Start container mall, the transitional Cardboard Cathedral, and some of the many pop up restaurants and bars. Contemporary art galleries, boutique shops and open-air markets add to Christchurch’s creative vibe.
Other popular activities include the International Antarctic Centre, Orana Wildlife Park and walking, mountain biking or driving through the Port Hills for stunning views of the city and coast. Traditionally known as the Garden City, Christchurch’s award winning Botanic Gardens are over 150 years old and boast an enviable collection of exotic and native plants.