Discover Christchurch

OVERVIEW

This survey tour of Christchurch and its surrounds has it all – must-see central city sights, informative commentary, garden walks, and spectacular views from the Port Hills, all from the vantage of your double decker coach. Your Kiwi guide will bring the stories of the “Garden City” vividly to life – from its 1850 founding to the devastating back-to-back earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 and the impressive rebuild that’s been underway since. Drive by everything from the Arts Centre’s cluster of reviving Gothic Revival buildings to the Transitional Cardboard Cathedral. Observe the magnificent ruins of Christchurch Cathedral, yet to be rebuilt more than a decade on from the destructive seismic activity. Stretch your legs on a meander through stunning Mona Vale Gardens along the Avon River. Head for the hills and the Sign of the Takahe, a Tudor-style manor house high in the Port Hills. Named for a flightless New Zealand bird, this venue offers true eagle-eye views of the city, mountains, and ocean.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See all the Christchurch must-sees as you tour the city and its outskirts by panoramic coach.
• Visit areas damaged by the 2001-11 earthquakes and see how the exciting recovery still underway.
• Pass landmarks like the Arts Center and Christchurch Cathedral, and take a stroll among rhododendrons and azaleas at Mona Vale Gardens.
• Travel up into the hills above Christchurch for sensational city, sea and mountain views.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing including a light jacket or sweater.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.