Introducing Christchurch…

Earthquake stricken Christchurch is New Zealand South Island’s largest city.

By Ian Armitage

Often referred to as the most English city outside England, Christchurch (“the garden city”) is the scenic gateway to some of the most stunning vistas and best adventure playgrounds of New Zealand’s South Island.

Following a deadly earthquake in February, the city’s landscape has changed forever, and tourism has been dealt a blow.

6.3 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE

On 22 February 2011, Christchurch was ripped apart. 181 people were killed and the centre of the city was very badly damaged.

Many people heading to New Zealand now wonder what they will find in Christchurch: Hundreds of buildings lie in ruin; most of the city’s landmarks are awaiting reconstruction or demolition; and some major streets in the city centre remain closed. The destruction is incredible. There’s so much to fix.

However, you can still visit. Christchurch International Airport is open and operating as usual, and many hotels and hostels are still operating.

If you head out of Christchurch, there are only a few reminders of the earthquake; expect to see bumpy roads and some cracked buildings.

The Waipara Wine Valley’s wineries, in the north, remain open and serve up some of the best local produce, while the North Canterbury Food & Wine Trail is operating as normal.

Tourists are still bungee jumping off the narrow bridge to Hanmer Springs and relaxing in its public hot springs (it’s just 90km away from the worst effects of the earthquake).

Tourism in the area, as you might have guessed, has been dealt a blow, but Christchurch still has every right to call itself the gateway to the South Island… Despite the tragedy of the earthquake, New Zealand still delivers sublime travel experiences.

Skiing: Mt Hutt

Situated 80km west of Christchurch is the Mt Hutt ski-field where you can strap on the snowboard and carve up the powder from June to October. Only an hour’s drive from Christchurch, the ski-field is one of the largest and busiest in the South Island with slopes catering for all levels.

Alpine train journey

The 223km TranzAlpine rail link between Christchurch and Greymouth cuts through the heart of the Southern Alps with vistas straight out of a Peter Jackson movie. Passengers can take in the breathtaking scenery from the comfort of their seat, the on-board cafe, or an open-air carriage for those wanting a blast of mountain air up their nostrils.

Hanmer hot pools

Built around a mountain hot spring roughly 90km north of Christchurch, the town of Hanmer is as popular today as it was 150 years ago when people flocked to soak in its geothermal heated waters. Today the hot spring still warms skiers, mountain bikers and other adventure thrill-seekers, or those passing through to the West Coast via Lewis Pass.

Vineyards

Although overshadowed by the grape growing prowess of Marlborough, the Canterbury region boasts several top vineyards, many of which welcome visitors with tours and tastings. Waipara Wine Valley’s wineries are a must see.

Whale watching

The coastal town of Kaikoura – 180km north of Christchurch must not be missed. With its mountain backdrop, the nutrient rich waters off the coast boat swarms of migrating whales stocking up on food as they travel between Antarctic waters and the tropics. Hop on one of the whale watching www.whalewatch.co.nz boats and catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures before devouring a crayfish – a local delicacy.

Mt Cook

It’s mostly all about mountains in the South Island and today is when you check out the big one – Mt Cook. Named after the famous British explorer James Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak stands at 3,574 meters, and is a truly breathtaking sight. Its Maori name, Aoraki, means “cloud piercer" and on the clear day its majestic peak can be seen for miles. Mt Cook is roughly 330km from Christchurch.

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Getting there

Christchurch airport (www.christchurchairport.co.nz) is the South Island’s main international gateway.

Food

Whether it’s a quick ‘n’ easy cheap-eat, gourmet dining or something in-between, Christchurch is a city that can tingle your avant-garde taste buds, or fill an empty tummy for next to nothing.

To get the best tips on where to eat, ask around – Christchurch boasts top-end eateries that rival Auckland and Wellington.

Issue 8, Australia & New Zealand Outlook