Christchurch, New Zealand

As we approach Christchurch I must admit to having some doubts.

Is this going to be depressing?

After all it has only been three years since the devastating earthquake of 2011.

Will there be anything left for a tourist in the City of Gardens?

Our hotel is just at the edge of North Hagley Park with the Avon River just across the street. It is beautiful here…and the park is huge. Anyone for a morning run or an evening walk?

Along the east edge of the park (Rolleston Avenue) is the tourist information centre…and surrounding it are tourist attractions that would do any city proud.

There is the Canterbury Museum…

Unique, beautiful stonework isn’t it.

(Hint: Click on any photo to enlarge it)

There are a few buildings in the area done in the same style (which I learn is Gothic Revival architecture). Don’t just admire from the outside though. The museum itself is fun to explore with its carefully selected artifacts and innovated ways of displaying them.

Next door to the museum you can board “The Caterpillar”

This green tram will slowly take you through Christchurch Botanic Gardens as the guide/driver talks about the flowers and trees and history of the gardens. The gardens are surrounded on three side by the Avon River and Hagley Park. We visited in April (autumn in New Zealand). I can imagine the gardens being a new experience each time the seasons change.

In the same area one can go punting on the Avon. 

Going to join us?

Click here for more photos from our punting experience.

And right across the street is where we can board the tram

and take a City Tour.

Ready to come along?

Click here for Christchurch Part 2.