Discover the Charm of Christchurch with iBestTravel

Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, sprawls between the sea and the Southern Alps. Visitors and locals alike tend to congregate around the Central Business District (CBD), which boasts an array of independent, quirky spots. Therefore, it’s one of the best areas in Christchurch for a leisurely wander and exploration.

The 2010 and 2011 earthquakes transformed this city known as the Garden City, yet it has undergone a remarkable transformation since then. As a result, the constantly changing landscape means new installations, pop-ups, and businesses are opening all the time. Consequently, it’s impossible to be bored in Christchurch; the city is different with each visit.

Your Half-Day Stroll Through the Center

Start your Day with Coffee

New Zealand is renowned for its exceptional coffee culture, and experiencing a classic café outing in Christchurch is essential. One top choice is Child Sister, which offers unexpected brunch options like kimchi rice omelettes paired with exceptional coffee. It’s a fantastic place to kick off your exploration in town. Afterward, you can stroll over to the New Regent Street Quarter, a pedestrian-friendly area adorned with pastel-colored heritage buildings from the 1930s Spanish-Mission style. Furthermore, a historic tram runs through this area, making for an iconic portrait of Christchurch.

Witnessing the City’s Resilience

Over a decade later, the scars of the earthquakes remain, including noticeable gravel parking lots where buildings once stood. As you walk towards Hagley Park, you’ll pass many of these remnants. If you’re curious about the earthquakes, the exhibition “Quake City” by the Canterbury Museum delves into the past and the science behind these natural occurrences.

Art and Nature Intertwined

Throughout downtown, stunning street art decorates numerous buildings and walls, many created by globally acclaimed artists. A notable piece is a massive mural depicting an extinct moa with a kiwi by Belgian street artist ROA, found next to the Canterbury Museum.

From this point, the sprawling green expanse of Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens beckons. As you walk, it quickly feels as though you’ve left the city behind, wandering through lush meadows adorned with unusual trees, such as the Chilean monkey puzzle trees planted here in the 1860s. With countless spots to relax in the sun and numerous pathways to explore, you may easily find yourself drifting along the serene Avon River.

Embrace the Leisure Activities

Here, you will find the iconic Antigua Boat Sheds, where you can rent a boat to enjoy punting along the river. Punting on the Avon is particularly delightful in autumn (April and May) when the park’s foliage turns a striking gold.

Exploring the Riverside Market

As you wander back towards the CBD, you will discover the Riverside Market, a lively new development that showcases some of the best dining experiences in Canterbury. This market offers a blend of street food stalls and upscale shops, providing something for every palate.

Your Walking Tour Comes to an End

The indoor market extends outside and merges seamlessly with the primary shopping area. Notably, you will encounter the revitalized Whiti-reia Cathedral Square, which was severely affected during the earthquakes. This area now stands as a vibrant symbol of the city’s renewal, making it a suitable conclusion to a fulfilling walk around this dynamic metropolis.