Venturing out into the suburbs of Christchurch isn’t always the best idea (mainly because there isn’t much to see and do), but Riccarton is a little different. Most people are drawn there by the massive mall, but just around the corner sits Riccarton House and Deans Cottage, bordered by one of the last tracts of … Read more
If you’re looking to escape the city for an easy seaside trip, the journey out to Lyttleton, Corsair Bay and Cass Bay is a great idea. You’ll find some nice coastal views, easy walking tracks and some nice bars and cafes (in Lyttleton at least). You can also keep going around the bays to Governors … Read more
One of my favourite South Island streets is conveniently located right in the centre of Christchurch. What makes it such a cool street? Well, it’s extremely photogenic (how can you not be impressed with the colourful little shop houses), has a tram that occasionally rumbles through it and there are some good eating options. Don’t … Read more
The most famous spot on Banks Peninsula is surely Akaroa, but did you know there’s a great beach and stunning coastal views on the southern side of the Peninsula? Tumbledown Bay (and Te Oka Bay, which is right next door) is a bit of a detour from the main Christchurch to Akaroa road but it’s … Read more
We’ve always been fascinated with cable cars. Riding a cable car / gondola / funicular is a great chance to see a place from a whole new perspective. On our recent trip to Christchurch we took a ride on the Christchurch Gondola. The central city is known for its flat terrain in comparison to other … Read more
Central Christchurch is home to a variety of attractions, including beautiful old buildings, the meandering Avon River, street art, the botanic gardens and various reminders of the Christchurch earthquakes. It’s a strange mix of the old, the new and the soon to be demolished. A fun way to explore central Christchurch is on the historic … Read more
One of my earliest memories was driving through the lion enclosure at Orana Wildlife Park and seeing lions wandering around outside the car. You can’t do that anymore (that all ended in 1995), but it was exciting to return to this place after so many years. Orana Wildlife Park has a great selection of animals to … Read more
Now that the inner city has been reduced to ruins, Christchurch’s more scenic attractions have become far more appealing. Getting out of the city and onto a beach is your best bet for a fun afternoon in Christchurch, and New Brighton Beach is one of the best (and most accessible) beaches close to the city. … Read more
With the inner city still in ruins six years after the 2011 earthquake, the glistening coastline of Banks Peninsula is a welcome escape. Hiking in Christchurch is best experienced (or so I’ve heard) on the Taylor’s Mistake to Godley Head Track, where you’ll see black sand beaches, towering cliffs and sweeping coastal views. Keep reading … Read more
Escaping the city on a sunny day is always a good idea, especially in Christchurch where the city centre isn’t exactly a relaxing place. Sumner Beach is the ideal Christchurch beach getaway. There’s an esplanade to walk / cycle along, caves and viewpoints to explore and some nice bars and restaurants to relax in. Sumner … Read more