Christchurch, however you want it.

Welcome to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand! This friendly and welcoming city is compact enough to easily explore on foot or bicycle, and is surrounded by stunning nature. Following the earthquakes of 2010-2011, Christchurch has re-emerged as a lively and ever-changing city, where creativity and innovation flow. With a rich history dating back a thousand years, Christchurch is the oldest city in New Zealand. Its original Gothic buildings, dating from the 1800s, add to the city's charm and character. Bordered by the Port Hills and the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is situated on the Canterbury Plains with the majestic Southern Alps as a backdrop, offering a huge array of experiences all within just a few hours’ drive. Known as “The Garden City”, Christchurch is home to the award-winning Christchurch Botanic Gardens, which feature one of the finest collections of exotic and native plants found in New Zealand. Take a relaxing punt on the serene Avon River, which flows through the centre of the city and forms an urban park along its banks.