Christchurch

Christchurch is the second largest city in New Zealand, it is situated on the South Island and boasts its Alpine region, beautiful beaches and relaxing countryside.
Better known as 'the garden city', 382,200 people call this city home.

A boutique city with beautiful scenery and gardens (as you can tell by the name), the city itself offers galleries, botanical gardens, outdoor markets, hidden laneways, 19th century buildings and restaurants featuring some of the best local produce in New Zealand.

As for the natural wonders to the south is the fantastic alpine high country topped off with 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. If you venture north you will be heading towards the countryside here 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 unforgettable journey over the Southern Alps.

Heading towards the coast now you could 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.

To the north you will encounter Waimakariri here you will find beaches, rivers and mountains all waiting to be discovered. A creative town with tones of history and culture to be explored.

Towards the south is a little town named Waimate this place is truly magical with a strong country atmosphere, you can go hunting, fishing, mountain biking or take a visit to the annual strawberry fare.

With some of the best skiing and alpine resorts in the world, as well as magical corners to this remarkable city. A visit to Christchurch is well worth it.