Christchurch

Christchurch is New Zealands second largest city, home to 382,200 people. Located on the South Island of New Zealand, towards the western side of the island. Christchurch is better known for it's amazing snow fields during winter and being a boutique city with amazing gardens, so much so it has been given the title of 'the garden city'.

Offering galleries, botanical gardens, outdoor markets, hidden alleyways, 19th century buildings and restaurants featuring some of the best local produce in New Zealand. Also playing host to some amazing natural beauties such as Aoraki or Mount Cook, this mountain is part of the Southern Alps Mountain Ranges and is New Zealands highest point at 3754 meters above sea level. Or you can relax in the hot pools, at one of the many wineries or try and find some of the many wildlife that inhabit this area. Heading west now and there is a train trip which can take you on a breath taking journey over the Southern Alps.

Towards the coast you can take a trip down the Kaikoura coastline and visit the historic settlement of Akaroa, here you can go whale watching, or swim with the dolphins, snorkeling with the seals or walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway.

Also waiting to be explored is Waimakariri here you will find beaches, rivers and mountains. If you are wanting to head some where rural to escape the hustle and bustle of the city head to Waimate in the south this place is magical with a strong country atmosphere, you can go hunting, fishing, mountain biking or take a visit to the annual strawberry fare.

A trip to Christchurch is one you will be wanting to take over and over again with so much to see here it will be a trip to remember.