The city of Christchurch is located north of Banks Peninsula on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. It is known as New Zealand's Garden City and has a population of approximately 330,000, which makes it the South Island's largest city.

Christchurch is renowned for its similarities to England which is evident in the local architecture. You can go punting on the Avon River - just one of they ways to indulge during your stay!

The city's extensive parks and botanical gardens at Hagley Park invite you to discover Christchurch's affinity with nature. The Arts Centre is home to the famous Court Theatre and the Canterbury Film Society.

Christchurch's daily Arts Market is alive with local arts and crafts and ethnic food stalls. A visit to our prestigious art gallery is highly recommended.

The city is also within a short distance of several ski fields such as Mount Hutt - just over one hour's drive away and south of the city is the old French settlement of Akaroa, where you can sample some of the best cuisine in the South Island.

During the summer months (and even through most of the winter!) there are many watersport activities for you to have a splash at - including kayaking, surfing, sailing, snorkelling, scuba diving and windsurfing.