Christchurch

A South Island Welcome

After a short flight from Wellington, we landed in Christchurch, and, not to be biased, but the South Island truly has its own special charm! We picked up our car and headed straight to The Observatory Hotel, a beautifully restored historic building located right in the CBD. Conveniently situated beside the Christchurch Botanical Gardens (someone must have made sure we were close to the greenery!), it made for an ideal base to explore the city.

Christchurch Reborn: From Earthquake to Renewal

Christchurch’s story is one of resilience. The city endured two major earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, which devastated much of the CBD. Since then, Christchurch has undergone a massive rebuild, incorporating modern architecture alongside historic buildings that have been preserved or carefully restored. The result is a unique blend of old and new, showcasing innovative designs and adaptive reuse of structures, making Christchurch a symbol of renewal and innovation.

Riverside Markets & the Avon River

We explored the Riverside Markets, a lively spot with fresh produce, artisan goods, and a few quirky surprises (like the unexpected discovery of pasta shaped in, well, let’s just say interesting ways! see photo below). Christchurch felt like a breath of fresh air with its abundance of water fountains, gardens, and the Avon River, a peaceful waterway winding through the city. The Avon is also home to a rare species of native eel, which has a fascinating rehabilitation program aimed at conserving this endangered animal.

Evening Drinks and Exploring Christchurch at Night

Later that night, we made our way to The Dirty Land for cocktails—a definite must-visit for any night owl. Afterwards, we strolled through Christchurch’s beautifully lit streets, which gave the city a magical feel after dark.

Breakfast by the Sea in Sumner

The next morning, we set out for breakfast in Sumner, a charming coastal suburb known for its beachside views, art, and relaxed atmosphere. Just 20 minutes from the city, Sumner combines small-town vibes with beach charm, making it a lovely escape from the bustling city.

Christchurch Botanical Gardens

Of course, we couldn’t miss the Christchurch Botanical Gardens. Established in 1863, these gardens are a highlight of the city and offer a range of beautiful native and exotic plants. Though not as intricate as Hamilton Gardens, the Christchurch gardens are beautiful in their own right. The highlight for us was the Peacock Fountain, a colorful, Victorian-era fountain that takes on a new life at night when it’s illuminated.

Christchurch blends nature, history, and innovation seamlessly, making it a refreshing and memorable start to our South Island adventure.

Next stop… Lake Tekapo..