What to do there
In the centre of the city is the fantastic Christchurch Cathedral, an outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture. You can climb up to the spire for a bird's-eye view of the city and see other grey-stone 19th century buildings, tree-lined avenues and extensive leafy parks that give the city an elegant, rather English atmosphere. Visit the beautiful neo-Gothic Arts Centre, where there are wonderful markets and cafes, or take an evening meal in the restaurant of the historic tram that loops the city centre.
Other major attractions include the Christchurch gondola and the International Antarctic Centre, just outside the airport. Expect a high standard of cuisine wherever you go as local restaurants and cafes make the most of the region's delicacies and wines. Before or after lunch, take a leisurely journey down the Avon River in a punt. Christchurch has many events and festivals, including the Festival of Romance, the International Buskers Festival, winter carnival and Showtime Canterbury. Travel to Lyttelton and mountain bike in the Port Hills or go hang- gliding from some of the peaks. Over on the other side of the hills are Brighton and Sumner, great places for beaches and surfing. For something more relaxed try visiting the Canterbury Museum, which preserves and exhibits many historic artifacts and stories of Antarctic exploration. The International Antarctic Centre provides both base facilities and a visitor centre focused on current Antarctic activities. Walk Hagley Park in spring when it explodes into a sea of golden daffodils or catch your first glimpse of the national bird, the kiwi, at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Some other great things to do include the Air Force Museum, Southern Encounter Aquarium, The Christchurch Art Gallery (a new gallery opened 2003); the Christchurch Arts Centre, formerly Canterbury College and the site of groundbreaking scientist Ernest Rutherford's den; Ferrymead Heritage Park beside the Heathcote River;; the gondola and Nga Hau E Wha Marae.
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