Trifter

There are a few attractions you should see while in the Garden City:

The Botanic Gardens

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Being the Garden City, Christchurch has a wonderful botanic gardens. Established in 1863, this beautiful place covers over 30 hectares. It has many towering trees some of which are over 120 years old. It is free to enter and is delightful to walk through at any time of the year. The Gardens are located 15 to 20 minutes walking distance from the city centre.

Cathedral Square and the Cathedral

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The icon of Christchurch is worth a visit. It is in the middle of the city and is the Cathedral is the most visited building in New Zealand. Anyone can come inside, but you need to pay to go to the top of the spire for beautiful views of the city, 63 metres above the square. Outside stands a work of art called The Chalice, which looks like an inverted cone. The square is also a regular place for performers.

The Christchurch Tramway

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It is worth going on this historic tramway. First established in 1882, it used to sprawl all over the city. In the 1950’s, they ‘died out’, but were restored in 1995. The trams only cover the Central City now, but are not as glorious as they once were. It’s a great way to see the city as it goes through New Regent St, past The Arts Centre and the Cathedral Square. There is also a restored tram system and a Museum in Ferrymead.

The International Antarctic Centre

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This is a fun attraction that the kids might enjoy. Have fun in real snow & ice, see the little Blue Penguins or take a ride in a Hagglund (Pictured Above). It is one of the best places to learn about Antarctica and its conditions. It is also a base for the New Zealand, United States and Italian Antarctic Programmes. It is located next to Christchurch International Airport.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

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Willowbank is a reserve for New Zealand Natives, the most well known the Kiwi. Some are endangered and are being protected. The reserve also has a Maori attraction, called ‘Ko Tane’, and visitors can enjoy ‘an authentic Maori cultural experience’ You can take a look round a Maori Village and see a live performance. Located 15 minutes from Christchurch.

The Christchurch Gondola

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This has great 360 degree views of Christchurch, The Port Hills, The Canterbury Plains and Lyttleton Harbour. There is a cafe at the top along with a ‘Time Tunnel’, where you can look back on the past of Christchurch and the Port Hills. There are many walking tracks nearby to explore.

Others

• The Canterbury Museum
• The Christchurch Art Gallery
• Punting on the Avon
• Hagley Park

Christchurch is a great place to visit. So, when passing by, why not drop in?