Activities

Christchurch is the most English of New Zealand’s cities. It is known as “the Garden City” and is famous for its Botanic Gardens. The city was originally designed around a square mile, laid out in rectangular city blocks. Adjacent is Hagley Park which is also a square mile of parkland. Through Christchurch and Hagley Park flows and winds the river Avon. 36 Chester Street inner city luxury townhouse accommodation is close to a wide range of activities and attractions in and around Christchurch.

Some of the Christchurch attractions include:

Within a short walking distance with directions

The Arts Centre – turn left out of the front gate, turn left into Montreal Street around the East end of Cranmer Square. Follow Montreal Street to Worcester Street. The Arts Centre is in the old stone buildings which used to house the University. The Arts Centre is a vibrant collection of arts, culture, creativity, boutiques, cafes, galleries and weekend markets. It is also home to a selection of cinemas and theatres including The Court Theatre.

Christchurch Art Gallery – On the way to the Arts Centre, on the corner of Montreal St and Worcester Boulevard is the Christchurch Art Gallery, a modern glass building. It has a permanent collection and holds regular exhibitions. The Alchemist Café and a Gallery Shop are attached to the Gallery.

Christchurch Museum– Opposite the Arts Centre is the museum. World renowned for its exhibits this museum is housed in an historic building and is well worth a visit. Entrance is free. One of the entrances to the stunning Botanic Gardens is nearby.

Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens - Turn left on Chester Street, cross Cranmer Square and cross Park Terrace and you are in Hagley Park – a square mile of parkland within the central city. The park contains a golf course and various playing fields as well as having walking tracks and lakes. A pleasant place to exercise. The famous Botanic Gardens are within Hagley Park.

Christ’s College – An historic landmark and Christchurch’s oldest private school. Guided tours are possible.

Cathedral Square – Turn right on Chester Street. Cross over Durham Street and walk diagonally to the right across Victoria Square to Colombo Street. Turn South and walk one block and you are in Cathedral square. Here you will find the Christchurch Visitor information centre and a Police office. The cathedral is well worth a visit.

Punting on the Avon – The city location operates from steps on the Avon River bank, beside the Worcester Street Bridge. Just a short walk from 36 Chester Street, this location is on the corner of Cambridge Tce and Worcester. Punts and Kayaks are also available from the Antigua Boat Sheds on Cambridge Terrace. Punting on the river Avon as it meanders through the city is an iconic attraction.

Christchurch Tram – the historic trams are a great way to see the city, allowing you to get on an off at any of the stops on the circuit that travels around the central city including the Arts Centre and Museum. You can also enjoy dinner on the Tram (pre-booking is essential). The nearest Tram Station is in Cathedral Junction however there is a tram stop around the corner, one block, at the junction of Durham Street and Armagh St.

City Walks – There are recommended city walks that are easily accessible from Chester Street.

Free Shuttle Bus (Yellow) – Turn right on Chester and at the junction with Durham Street, on the opposite side of the road you will find the bus stop for the free central city Shuttle.

Theatres & Cinemas
• The Court Theatre (03 963 0888) is in the Arts Centre
• Academy & Cloisters Cinemas, is within the Arts Centre (03 366 0167) and is just five minutes walk. Programmess can be found in the entertainment section of the daily Christchurch Press.
• The Regent on Worcester, is a cinema complex at 94 Worcester Street close to Cathedral Square (Movie information line 03 366 0140)
• The Isaac (Formerly the Theatre Royal) is also nearby at 145 Gloucester St, (ticket office “Ticketek” 03 377 8899).
• Hoyts are other multiple cinema complexes at Northlands Shopping Mall in the Northern suburbs, and in Moorehouse Avenue to the South of the city.
• Other cultural performances take place at the nearby Town Hall

Central City Shopping Mall - Cashel Street Mall, Columbo Street and the triangle centre form the central city shopping area and our major department store is Ballantynes

Casino - The Christchurch Casino is just one block to the North on Durham Street North

Hagley Golf Course - just 5 minutes’ walk away, this is a marvelously convenient golf course in the centre of nearby beautiful Hagley Park. The Green Fee is only $15 fee for 12 holes and $25 for 18 holes. Club hire is $20.00 Opening times vary according to the day of the week. Tel 03 379 8279 or check out their website >>

Attractions further afield

Gourmet Food and Wine Tour – Personally escorted half and full day tours by award-winning food and travel writer Mavis Airey. More details here >>

Christchurch Gondola – rise high on the port hills on the gondola for 360 degree views of Lyttleton harbour, Pegasus Bay and the ocean, the Canterbury plains and the Southern Alps. Entry Fees Apply

Antarctic Centre – Located close to the airport this is probably the world’s best Antarctic attraction. This is a fine tribute to the amazing exploration of Antarctica.
Entry Fees Apply

Air Force Museum – Located at Wigram, off the main south Road. A fascinating look at the Royal NZ Air Force from inception to the modern day. Entry is free.

Orana Park – Wildlife Park, McLeans Island Road, off Johns Road. Open 10-5 daily except Christmas Day. Entry fees apply.

Willowbank Wildlife Park. This is located at 60 Hussey Road. A great option for young children, as you will find both New Zealand and Exotic wildlife and farmyard animals. Open dawn till dusk daily. Entry fees apply.

Tamaki Heritage Village – Join the descendents of those who forged our history in blood sweat and tears. Journey back in time to the early 1800’s where the traditions of the ancient Maori values clashed with those of the early pioneering settlers and colonialism. Entry Fees apply

For further activities and attractions, you can visit the following websites.
Christchurch Cityscape >>
Christchurch - the Garden City >>
Christchurch and Canterbury >>