Christchurch

Gothic Heights Motel Christchurch

Christchurch is the gateway to the South Island, and is known as the Garden City throughout New Zealand and the world. Stay a while and take in the attractions that the city has on offer. Visit the Arts Centre and take a stroll through the nearby Botanic Gardens and Museum in beautiful Hagley Park.

Explore central Christchurch on the vintage tram for a trip back in time, or indulge yourself with a punt along the Avon River, which flows through the city centre.

Discover truths about Antarctica at the International Antarctic Centre, or take the gondola to the top of the Port Hills for views of Christchurch and Lyttelton Harbour. Alternatively, take a cruise on Lyttelton Harbour to view dolphins and other wildlife with Christchurch Wildlife Cruises.

Christchurch offers fine conference and function facilities with the recently completed Christchurch Convention Centre and the CBS Canterbury Arena.

"Explore central Christchurch on the vintage tram"

Take a day tour to the picturesque and unique village of Akaroa, originally settled by French explorers, which still retains its French flavour, perhaps most visible in the French named streets.

Hanmer Springs is also a great day trip, 1.5 hours from Christchurch. For rest and relaxation, Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve is the natural place to unwind - a world class spa experience set in a unique alpine environment. Take a horse ride through the beautiful surroundings and enjoy some local cuisine in one of Hanmer's popular restaurants.

The Tranz Alpine Express train will show off the stunning South Island scenery as it takes you to Arthurs Pass and Greymouth, one of the world's truly great train journeys.

North of Christchurch is the unmissable fishing village of Kaikoura, home of the world acclaimed Kaikoura Whalewatch and well known for sunbathing seals on the beach and great scuba diving. Along the way, sample some of the region's great vintages by stopping at one or many of the different wineries in Waipara.

In winter, Christchurch boasts a variety of nearby ski fields, including Mount Hutt. The South Island is world renowned for its ski season, full of fun and challenge for all from the beginner to the competitive athlete.