Introduction to Christchurch

New Zealand's place in English history is visibly apparent in Christchurch's architecture and design. Dubbed "The Garden City," one eighth of the land is dedicated to public parks, reserves and recreation. Life here revolves around enjoying its natural beauty, minimal rain and plenty of long, sunny days. Although it's often considered the most conservative of New Zealand's major cities, don't let that fool you. An influx of cafes and art galleries, along with world-class wineries nearby, suggest an emerging cosmopolitan sensibility.

Things to Do

Climb to the top of Christchurch Cathedral Clock Tower for views of the city's gardens and Victorian homes. In the city center you're bound to notice the quirky, iconic Wizard of Christchurch, who provokes the crowd from his perch on a ladder. Play golf or just relax in the expansive Hagley Park. In the middle of the park you'll find Christchurch's Botanic Gardens, home to a tropical greenhouse, rose gardens and some of New Zealand's oldest exotic trees.

Nightlife and Entertainment

The SOL (South of Lichfield) area is chockablock with quirky art installations, such as bicycles suspended from brick walls, and more than a dozen bars, restaurants and cafes along a narrow pedestrian alleyway. Locals and visitors alike sip homebrews and crowd the outdoor courtyard at Christchurch institution Dux de Lux. The music and dance of New Zealand's indigenous population, the Maori, come alive at the Nga Hau E Wha National Marae.

Restaurants and Dining

Fuel the day with a healthy breakfast of freshly squeezed juice at one of Christchurch's cafes, or a caffeine jolt at local favorite Underground Coffee. Serious foodies head to Cook 'n With Gas, which proudly serves the best delicacies the region has to offer -- lamb, mussels and cheeses. Wash it all down with a rich glass of pinot noir from nearby Waipara Valley.

Active Pursuits

Christchurch is an outdoor lover's paradise. On the weekends, locals head to the Port Hills for picnics and mountain biking, or to just absorb the best view of the city and the ocean. In winters, choose among 18 ski areas. Christchurch's temperate weather makes almost anything possible, whether it's kayaking or rowing on the Avon River, or drawing campers to its lakes, hikers to Mt. Cook Aorak National Park, and sunbathers and surfers to its beaches.