Christchurch

Christchurch is a city on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, in the Canterbury Region. It has a population of about 391,383 people as of the 2023 census, making it the largest city on the South Island. It’s known as the “Garden City” because of its many parks and green spaces. The city also serves as a gateway for tourists heading into the mountains, lakes and wild coasts of the South Island.

The city has a rich history — originally established as a settlement by British colonists from 1850, Christchurch combines colonial‑era heritage buildings (some of which were damaged in earthquakes), with modern rebuilds and a strong cultural scene. Highlights to visit include Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park in the city centre, the seaside suburb of Sumner, and nearby Banks Peninsula with its volcanic landforms and scenic vistas. One should also take time to explore the rebuilt central city after the major 2010–2011 earthquakes and see how Christchurch has transformed and recovered.

Nearby cities include Timaru, Ashburton, Rolleston, Rangiora, and Akaroa.