Christchurch Scenic Highlights

Christchurch | Regional Information | Activity Highlights | Scenic Highlights | History

A medley of stunning scenery and diversity, Christchurch, New Zealand is an unmissable experience. No visit is complete without exploring Banks Peninsula, or the Botanic Gardens.

Christchurch Scenic Highlights Overview

Explore the beauty and diversity of Christchurch, New Zealand. From the stunning Kaikoura Ranges behind Christchurch, to the rugged coastline, beautiful beaches and surrounding bays.

Don't miss the gorgeous gardens in Christchurch which the city is so famous for.

Stroll down the New Brighton Pier and admire the amazing views out to sea, or back over Christchurch. Drop a line at the end of the pier and catch your dinner.

Hagley Park

Hagley Park was created in 1855 by the Provincial Government. According to the government's decree at that time, Hagley Park is "reserved forever as a public park, and shall be open for the recreation and enjoyment of the public".

Hagley Park is 1.61 kilometres square. 30 hectares of this is the beautiful Botanic Gardens.

Botanic Gardens

The grounds of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens encompass an area of 30 hectares (75 acres) alongside the Avon River. Contained within this area is undoubtedly the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants to be found anywhere in New Zealand.

The Rose Garden is central in the Botanic Gardens layout, containing more than 250 different roses. Old and new varieties are grown and displayed in such a way that visitors can see examples of those most suitable for their own requirements.

The nearby Herb Garden, constructed in 1986, has an extensive range of plants used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Be sure also to visit the Heather Garden, Rock Garden, Rhododendron Collection and the Cockayne Garden, which features New Zealand native plants.

» Christchurch Botanic Gardens Information

Lyttelton Harbour

Scenic Lyttelton Harbour is located right beside the city of Christchurch. It offers the visitor spectacular scenery, made even more interesting with fascinating Māori and European history.

You can experience Lyttelton Harbour by driving the short distance through the Lyttelton Road Tunnel or over the Port Hills. Lyttelton was the port of entry for English settlers coming to the new settlement of Canterbury.

Around the Port Hills you'll find a choice of adventure sports, including mountain biking. There are many walks around the hills and beach areas, as well as safe swimming and picnic areas.

» Lyttelton Harbour Information

» Lyttelton Travel Directory

Akaroa and Banks Peninsula

A one-and-a-half-hour drive south-east of Christchurch, Banks Peninsula is the result of violent eruptions from three ancient volcanoes. The spectacular coastline of Akaroa Harbour and the surroundings bays are the legacy of the earth's fury.

The Ngai Tahu Māori tribe had already discovered the charm of the location well before Captain Cook sighted Akaroa Harbour in the 1770s. Akaroa is the site of the only attempted settlement by the French in New Zealand.

Their influence is still evident in this vibrant tourist town—look for French street names, quaint historic buildings and inspired cuisine.

» Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Information

» Akaroa and Banks Peninsula Travel Directory

Useful Christchurch Links

To help plan your Christchurch holiday choose from the main categories below:

• Christchurch Accommodation
• Christchurch Tours
• Christchurch Attractions and Activities
• Christchurch Transport
• Christchurch Cuisine and Dining
• Christchurch Shopping
• Christchurch Visitor Information

Christchurch Region Information

Christchurch Tourism Operators