8 Top Canterbury Must-Do's

Once a traditional city, Christchurch is now a sassy trendsetter. There are vast areas of gentrification, a celebrated food scene and cultural merits aplenty. Nearby Banks Peninsula boasts an insatiable appetite for the good life with Akaroa, a settlement with a French flavour, an absolute treat.

© AA Traveller 2021

1. Christchurch Tram

Learn about landmarks and local sights while rattling up the streets in a handsome vintage tram. Departing from Cathedral Junction, the route frequents 17 popular stops.

TOP TIP: The Christchurch tram is the only restaurant tram in New Zealand, which means you can incorporate a delicious dinner with your sightseeing tour.

2. Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Christchurch Botanic Gardens BOTH: © ChristchurchNZ

Welcome to a 21 hectare oasis with a beautiful lake and fanciful pathways. The Visitor Centre is a stunning, architecturally beautiful building with a dedicated gallery detailing Christchurch’s world of plants. There’s also a great café and gift shop.

3. Akaroa Nature Tours

Perennially inviting, Akaroa Harbour beckons every visitor onto the water. Jump on a two-hour nature cruise by catamaran, charter a yacht, pick up a paddle and kayak, or sail aboard New Zealand's oldest gaffed rigged ketch.

4. International Antarctic Centre

Experience the Four Seasons of Antarctica show where it snows every six minutes; play in real snow and ice; survive an Antarctic storm and hang out with little blue penguins. Enjoy an unconventional ride on a Hägglund and take a simulated 4D Antarctic cruise.

5. Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu

With a significant collection, major exhibitions by New Zealand artists and regular international travelling shows curated in an awe-inspiring space, this is a gallery experience worth paying for but entry is free. And wait, there’s more: complimentary tours at 11am and 2pm reveal more of what you’re experiencing. The gallery stays open late, until 9pm, on Wednesdays.

6. Margaret Mahy Playground

© Margaret Mahy Playground

The largest, most magical playground in the southern hemisphere. Conveniently located in the city centre. There’s a huge splash pad, built-in trampolines, a clever pump and dam system, huge slides and apparatus. Oh, to be a kid again.

7. Riverside Market

Riverside Market, Christchurch © Christchurch

An unmissable seven-day a week indoor farmers’ market fronting the banks of the Ōtakaro Avon River. Foodies will be enthralled by charismatic chefs, food choice and purveyors.

8. Port Hills Gondola

Glide to the top of Port Hills and enjoy 360-degree views. Set off on a walking track, learn the area's history on the unique Time Tunnel ride or grab a bite at Red Rock Café.

Want more? Visit Visit https://aatraveller.co.nz/travel-guides and get planning.

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