Christchurch city is located midway down the East Coast of the South Island, just north of Banks Peninsula. Christchurch is the South Island's largest city. It’s a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping and award-winning attractions.

In the centre of the city is the Christchurch Cathedral, an outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture. Climb up to the spire for a bird's-eye view of the city and to examine the cathedral bells at close hand. Grey-stone nineteenth century buildings, tree-lined avenues and extensive leafy parks give the city an elegant, rather English atmosphere. Christchurch is well known for its award winning gardens.

Expect a high standard of cuisine - restaurants and cafes make the most of the region’s delicacies and local wines. Before or after lunch, take a leisurely journey down the Avon River in a punt.

Travel from sea to mountain, from Christchurch on the Canterbury coast to Mt Cook - the highest peak in New Zealand. Christchurch is the gateway to the ski fields and walking trails of the Southern Alps and also to the whale watching centre of Kaikoura and the stunning untamed beauty of the west coast. Dunedin and the unspoilt wilderness regions of the far south are just a few hours away.