Historic Christchurch & Botanical Gardens

OVERVIEW

Settle in for a panoramic drive around Christchurch in an historic, open top, double-decker bus and then ride through the Botanic Gardens in an open-air trolley called a caterpillar. In both venues, guides will point out and describe the attractions to give you an excellent understanding of what makes them so special. While traveling through the heart of Christchurch, you will pass cultural landmarks such as the Canterbury Museum and the Arts Centre, a collection of Gothic-style heritage buildings that house art studios and galleries. Cathedral Junction, one of the main shopping and dining complexes, is also on the route. The focus will turn to the natural world in the Botanic Gardens, which was founded in 1863 with the planting of a single English oak. Today, the gardens display a vast tapestry of plants where something is always in bloom. No matter what your interest – whether azaleas, roses or water plants – you will find a garden specific to it.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the highlights of Christchurch while traveling through town in a double-decker bus.
• Ride through the Botanic Gardens in an open-air trolley that offers unobstructed views.
• Listen to enlightening and entertaining commentary at both venues.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.