Hiking the Hooker Valley Track
Discover the stunning beauty of the Hooker Valley Track in New Zealand’s Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, an unforgettable hiking experience.
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Christchurch, the Garden City, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and natural beauty. If you only have one day to explore the city, this itinerary will guide you through some of its must-see sights. But before going through the itinerary its important to understand the impact that the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes have had and continue to have on the city.
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In 2010 and 2011 Christchurch suffered with two devastating earthquakes.
The earthquakes changed Christchurch forever. You will see this throughout your time exploring the city.
However, the city’s response demonstrated incredible resilience and community spirit. The recovery process has been long and challenging but has also provided opportunities for innovation and growth.
New Regent Street Precinct is a charming pedestrian mall famous for its pastel-coloured Spanish Mission-style buildings. Opened in 1932, it is a beautiful example of interwar architecture and one of Christchurch’s most picturesque streets.
Stroll through the street and admire the unique facades and detailed tile work. Start your day with a coffee and breakfast at one of the many cafes.
Time: 5 minute walk from New Regent Street Precinct
The Christchurch Tramway is a heritage tram system that offers a unique way to explore the city. With restored vintage trams, it provides a hop-on-hop-off service that connects key attractions. You can get a combined tram and punting on the Avon ticket here if you haven’t already booked one online.
Time: 5 minute walk from Tramway Lane
The Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, also known as the Cardboard Cathedral, was built in 2013 as a temporary replacement for the earthquake-damaged Christchurch Cathedral. Designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, it is made of cardboard tubes, timber, and steel.
Marvel at the innovative architecture and tranquil interior. The cathedral also features beautiful stained-glass windows salvaged from the original cathedral. Learn about its construction and significance in the city’s recovery.
Time: 10 minute walk from the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral
Cathedral Square has been the heart of Christchurch since the mid-19th century. Despite damage from the 2011 earthquakes, it remains a central hub for locals and visitors.
Explore the remnants of the original Christchurch Cathedral and view the various public artworks and street performances often found here. Don’t miss the Chalice, a striking 18-meter-high sculpture.
Walk across to Turanga, the public library and head up to the top floor for an open air view of the cathedral.
You can book free tours of the cathedral to see the progress of its rebuilding. If you take a free tour, you will need to rearrange this itinerary.
Time: 5 minute walk from Cathedral Square
Punting on the Avon River is a quintessential Christchurch activity. It offers a relaxing and scenic way to view the city. The tradition dates back to Edwardian times and provides a unique perspective of the city’s gardens and architecture.
Hire a punt from the Worchester Bridge and enjoy a serene glide along the river. Your guide will share fascinating anecdotes about Christchurch’s history and natural beauty.
You can purchase a combined tram and punting ticket.
For more travel tips and guides about New Zealand, head over to our New Zealand Travel page.
Time: 6 minute walk from Worchester Bridge
The Bridge of Remembrance, completed in 1924, is one of Christchurch’s most prominent war memorials. It commemorates those who served in World War I and subsequent conflicts.
Walk over the bridge and reflect on its historical significance. The adjacent park area is also a peaceful spot for a short rest.
Time: 2 minute walk from the Bridge of Remembrance
Riverside Market, opened in 2019, is a bustling indoor market that brings together local growers, producers, and artisans. It’s a great place to sample the region’s best food and drink.
Browse the stalls for fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries where you can choose from local delicacies or amazing international dishes.
Time: 1 minute walk back to Riverside Market
Just outside the Riverside Market you will find a tram stop. Trams run every 15 minutes so you won’t have to wait long. Take a leisurely 45 minute ride on the tram around the city. Enjoy the sites from the historical trams while listening to the stories of the city from the tram driver.
Time: 5 minute walk from the Riverside Market
This memorial honours the lives lost in the devastating 2011 earthquake. It is located along the banks of the Avon River and provides a space for reflection and remembrance.
The serene setting offers a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the day’s activities.
Time: 8 minute walk from the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens, established in 1863, cover 21 hectares and are a lush oasis in the city’s heart. They feature an impressive collection of exotic and native plants.
Wander through the various themed gardens, including the Rose Garden, Herbaceous Border, and the New Zealand Garden. The Curator’s House offers a delightful place for afternoon tea with a view of the gardens.
You can book a Botanic Gardens Tour on an electric shuttle if you prefer. The tour takes about 50 minutes. For bookings and times, check the tour website.
As the day winds down, hop on the tram to return to New Regent Street. Find a bar and enjoy a glass of New Zealand’s famous wine while reflecting on your busy day.
Tram Details:
Tips:
Christchurch offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This one-day itinerary provides a comprehensive overview, ensuring you experience the best the city has to offer. Enjoy your day in Christchurch!
Discover the stunning beauty of the Hooker Valley Track in New Zealand’s Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, an unforgettable hiking experience.
Visit Arrowtown, in New Zealand’s Otago region. Immerse yourself in its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant activities.
Discover the essential tips for driving in New Zealand. Understand the licensing requirements and driving tips to ensure a safe journey.
Explore Christchurch, the Garden City, in just one day. Uncover its cultural and historical attractions while experiencing its natural beauty.
Nestled in the scenic Cardrona Valley of New Zealand’s South Island, the Cardrona Bra Fence is a unique testament to quirky human behaviour.
© 2024 The Middle Age Wanderer
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24 Responses
Punting, the trolley, and the botanical gardens looks like a great way to spend the day in Christchurch!
It’s definitely nice to have a few things to do where you can sit down. The trolley ride around the gardens is a great way to see the gardens.
One day we want to go to New Zealand for a long visit. So I am building a list of places we need to add to the itinerary. Christchurch certainly looks like it needs to be on the list. Interesting to see how it has rr-built after the earthquakes. Love that the tram covers so many sites.
Christchurch definitely needs to be on your list Linda. It’s one of my favourite cities in the world.
Awesome itinerary! Very detailed!
Thanks. There is so much to see so it’s a pretty full day.
We have only travelled to the South Island of New Zealand once and then only drove through Christchurch. Your gorgeous photos have really piqued my interest in another trip to the South Island, where I intend to explore Christchurch thoroughly. Thank you for the comprehensive informtion.
You’re welcome Kelly. Christchurch won’t disappoint.
This looks like a fun day! I’ve never been to New Zealand
Definitely lots to see!
Christchurch seems like such a great place to visit! I love the colorful buildings, and I’d especially like to visit the botanical gardens. Will definitely refer back to this post when I’m able to make it to New Zealand!
The gardens are a must see Tess
I’ve never heard of Christchurch before! I would be all about the Botanic Garden 😍
The botanic gardens are definitely beautiful.
I’ve never visited Christchurch, but this is such a well-thought out guide that I can follow when I make it there one day 🙂
Thanks Bri! It is a beautiful city.
So many great things to do in Christchurch! I would love to visit the Cardboard Cathedral – the ceiling looks so unique. The Botanic Gardens are always on my must-visit list – would be great to explore those of Christchurch as well!
The Cardboard Cathedral is definitely unique and the gardens are beautiful.
Ooooh I had no idea you could go punting in Christchurch! I think of that as such an English activity so it’s really cool to see it on the other side of the planet!
We totally failed when we visited the city (we spent most time at Brighton Beach) so it is really cool to see how much more there is to see/do!
Christchurch definitely has a lot to see.
I have visited Christchurch many years ago on a rainy day! I would like to visit the Cathedral and the Botanical gardens and take the tram ride. Maybe on the next trip! Thanks for the list of things to do. Your images are awesome! 🙂
Thanks Jan. The city is beautiful and the cathedral and gardens are definitely must sees.
Christchurch is amazing and resilient as evidenced by their recovery from the earthquakes. Their rebuild has been inspiring and includes many new surprises.
Definitely agree Rhonda, the people of Christchurch are resilient and the recovery of this beautiful city is amazing.