New Zealand in Focus

Christchurch, The Garden City

Set against a majestic alps to ocean backdrop and commonly referred to as the ‘Garden City’, Christchurch offers visitors one of the New Zealand’s most unique destinations. Full swing into the post-earthquake rebuild, this energetic city combines urban regeneration, creativity, and innovation that is steeped in heritage and culture with a traditional English feel.

North South Holiday Park, situated just five minutes from Christchurch International Airport and the closest holiday park to all major motorhome and car rental depots, is the perfect choice for accommodation when visiting the city. Set in serene, tree-lined grounds, North South Holiday Park offers a range of affordable accommodations in a park-like setting. While staying at the park take advantage of their great range of facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, children’s playground and trampoline, BBQ area, bike and trike hire, and much more. Family operated, your hosts Dan, Julie and Steve Fraser will make you feel right at home!

With so much to see and do in Christchurch, we’ve come up with our top 5 not to be missed sights for your next visit to Christchurch, the gateway to New Zealand’s South Island.

Explore the Central City

Located within Christchurch’s four main avenues, the central city is the perfect spot to spend a day taking in the new and the old as the rebuild continues. With so many new establishments, there’s something to see around every corner including cafes, shopping and more. The revamped café scene in Christchurch is filled with trendy eateries, including ‘Little High’ where you can experience eight local and family-run restaurants all under the same roof. If it’s shopping that you’re after, then head to ‘The Crossing’ where you’ll find the newest retail instalment – European clothing giant H&M, along with many other sought-after clothing and retail brands just steps from each other in the Melbourne like laneways.

Margaret Mahy Family Playground

If you have kids in tow then a stop at Margaret Mahy Family Playground is a must. Located between the corners of Manchester and Armagh Streets is the largest playground in the southern hemisphere. There’s a four-metre wide slide, double flying fox, water cannons, sandpit, climbing web, rope bridges and splash pad, along with a BBQ area, dedicated picnic place, food carts and a place to buy your coffee. A wonderful place for a fun family outing.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Located in the heart of the city and spanning over 21 hectares is the beautiful Botanic Gardens. Within the garden walls are a number of gardens showcasing a wonderful collection of both exotic and local plants of New Zealand. Visit the Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, which has a café, gift shop and permanent interactive exhibition featuring the history of plants and gardening in Canterbury.

Click here for more information regarding opening hours, maps and much more.

Punting on the Avon

This is an iconic Christchurch activity! Glide along the calm Avon River, as a skilled punter propels you slowly through the water allowing you to take in the beautiful Botanic Gardens while enjoying the spectacular views and flora that the ‘Garden City’ is famous for. Punting on the Avon is not only an eco-friendly tour but a perfect way to relax and enjoy Christchurch from a different perspective.

Click here for more information including tickets, hours of operation, photos and more.

Our fifth must do takes you 40 minutes south of Christchurch International Airport to Rakaia River Holiday Park, a relaxed and restful holiday location situated next to one of the best salmon fishing rivers in New Zealand. This peaceful rural setting offers a range of accommodation facilities including park motels, a fisherman’s cottage, backpacker cabins, and powered and tent sites – they are sure to have something to fit your requirements and budget. 100% New Zealand owned and operated, Glenn and Sandy will warmly welcome you to Rakaia River Holiday Park.

Salmon Fishing

While staying at the Rakaia River Holiday Park, take advantage of one of the best salmon fishing rivers in New Zealand. Set amidst spectacular scenery and touted as one of the best salmon fisheries in New Zealand, the Rakaia River is one of the largest braided rivers in New Zealand. Generally fished for salmon, Rakaia River also contains sea-run brown trout and resident populations of rainbow trout and brown trout.

For more information about Christchurch and the surrounding area visit ChristchurchNZ

Feature Region – NEW ZEALAND – Christchurch, The Garden City