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Christchurch city is located midway down the East Coast of the South Island

Christchurch city is located midway down the East Coast of the South Island, just north of Banks Peninsula. Christchurch is the South Island's largest city. It’s a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping and award-winning attractions.

In the centre of the city you can’t help but notice Christchurch Cathedral, an outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture. You can climb up to the spire for a bird's-eye view of the city and, while there, examine the cathedral bells at close hand. Other grey-stone nineteenth century buildings, tree-lined avenues and extensive leafy parks give the city an elegant, rather English atmosphere.

Other central city attractions include the beautiful Neo-Gothic Arts Centre, the historic tram which loops the city centre, the Christchurch Gondola and the International Antarctic Centre. Christchurch is also a great place to go shopping - look for Ballantynes, New Zealand’s oldest department store.

Expect a high standard of cuisine wherever you go - restaurants and cafes make the most of the region’s delicacies and local wines. Before or after lunch, take a leisurely journey down the Avon River in a punt.

Known internationally for its award winning gardens, Christchurch is also a place for events and festivals. Whatever the season, you'll find a non-stop programme of entertainment with events like the Festival of Romance, the International Buskers Festival, Winter carnival, and Showtime Canterbury.

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