Christchurch is the largest city in New Zealand’s South Island and the third largest urban area in the country. It is the provincial capital of Canterbury. Christchurch has been in the news a lot in the last two years due to violent earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. The strongest earthquake occurred on February 22, 2011 with a final death toll of 181 victims. Christchurch is still rebuilding the city after the earthquakes. Aftershocks may continue to occur for years to come, but decrease in intensity and frequency over time. No reason to ignore Christchurch as a visitor, according to the Lonely Planet. In October 2012, Christchurch ranked sixth on Lonely Planet’s list of top ten cities for 2013. The city is described as ‘rising from the rubble with a breath-taking mix of spirit, determination and flair’. Christchurch is rising with renewed energy and inventiveness and is a unique city.
Unique
Not only does the earthquake make Christchurch unique, there is no other place in the world from which you can be at an international airport within two hours, ski in a world-class apline resort, play golf, bungee jumping, rafting, mountain biking, hot air ballooning, windsurfing, whale watching and visit internationally renowned vineyards and gardens. Christchurch is New Zealand’s second largest city and the gateway to the South Island. Christchurch is bordered by mountains and the Pacific Ocean and is situated on the edge of the Canterbury Plains that extend to the Southern Alps. Christchurch is a place where residents can still enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle amid a natural environment known worldwide for its beauty.
History
Maorish oral history suggests that the first inhabitants lived in the Canterbury area about a thousand years ago. The first Europeans arrived in Canterbury in 1815 and in 1840 the first Europeans settled in this area and whaling also became active. Christchurch became a city on July 31 in 1856, officially making it New Zealand’s oldest city. Canterbury’s economy is mainly made up of products from the primary sector and that is why this area has long been known as living off the sheeps back. Although the economy was initially built around chilled mutton and dairy products, Canterbury today has a diverse economy.
climate
Christchurch has a mildly dry climate with an average maximum temperature of 22 degrees Celsius in January and 11 degrees Celsius in July. During the summer it is cool and mild due to the frequent sea breeze from the northeast. During winter the temperature can drop below zero at night. The average number of frost days per year is around 100 and snow can occur on average twice a year. In summer the beaches are a popular place to cool off and in winter people go to the mountains for skiing. In winter, smog is common due to the surrounding mountains, frost conditions, exhaust fumes and chimney exhaust. Blue skies are the norm all year round and the city averages 2000 hours of sunshine per year.
Sights
Christchurch and the surrounding area has a lot to offer the adventurous traveler. From irresistible views and trips in the city to exciting adrenaline activities. Here is a list of inspiring options.
Whale watching
Every whale watching trip is a unique experience. You never know what you’re going to encounter. The sperm whales in Kaikoura are the stars of the show. Kaikoura is home to whales all year round, depending on the season you can spot migrating humpback whales or blue whales. During the tour you may also encounter seals, dolphins and the endangered stray albatross. In addition, the world’s largest dolphin, the orca, and the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin, the Hector dolphin, can also be observed in Kaikoura. If that’s not enough, Kaikoura also attracts a wide variety of seabirds including storm petrels and seven species of shearwaters. Kaikoura is located about two drives north of Christchurch.
Swim with dolphins in Akaroa Harbour
Less than an hour’s drive from Christchurch you have the opportunity to swim with the world’s smallest dolphin species in Akaroa Harbour. This loyal and playful Hector’s dolphin is extremely rare and is only found in the waters around New Zealand. Akaroa Harbor is the only place in the world where you can swim with these beautiful animals.
Waipara
Waipara is located about a 45-minute drive north of Christchurch and is known for its wine. More than 250,000 wines are produced annually and these wines regularly win prizes in competitions. Waipara has more than twenty vineyards where you can taste wine and sometimes have dinner or lunch and more vineyards where you can taste wine by appointment. A great way to explore this area is to take part in the Waipara Valley Wine and Food Festival.
Orana Wildlife Park
At Orana Wildlife Park in the northwest of the city, visitors can see native New Zealand birds, including the kiwi. You will also find many other animals such as African lions and ring-tailed lemurs. Orana Wildlife Park also engages in captive breeding projects for endangered species.
International Antarctic Centre
Located next to Christchurch International Airport, the International Antarctic Center is the place to meet penguins and learn more about the journey to the South Pole. You will have the opportunity to enter storm chambers to experience for yourself what it is like to stand in freezing cold and in the wind and you can experience the four Antarctic seasons through a breathtaking light and sound show.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens show you the most beautiful displays of New Zealand plants and flowers. It’s a beautiful place to go for a few peaceful hours and will leave you feeling refreshed and energized afterwards. You can walk along the Avon River, rest under the shade of a 120-year-old tree or marvel at the beautiful sculptures and fountains scattered throughout the gardens. You can also tour the Avon River on a punt.
Akaroa and Banks Peninsula
Banks Peninsula is a peninsula of volcanic origin and is located immediately south of Christchurch. It covers an area of approximately 1,150 square kilometers and includes two major ports and many small bays and inlets. On this peninsula you will find a French-inspired town; Akaroa that remained unscathed after the earthquakes. Akaroa with its own beautiful bays, harbor and French and English history has a huge amount of activities on offer. There are cruises, sailing boats, cycle tours, walking tours, a dolphin reserve, a small penguin colony and many galleries, cafes and shops.
Willow Bank Wildlife Reserve
Willow Bank Wildlife Reserve gives you a holistic experience of New Zealand wildlife. It originated from respect and love for animals and nature. You’ll have the opportunity to experience New Zealand’s endangered species and culture in a natural setting within the city limits of Christchurch. Willow Bank is also open at night, so you have the opportunity to see a kiwi. The reserve also has a restaurant and café and a Maori cultural experience, Ko Tane. Ko Tane is a pre-European Maori village which provides an interactive Maori experience. You can listen to a member of the Ngai Tahu tribe as he talks about the customs and their struggle for survival after the Pakeha (Europeans) arrived.