There are many great sights in Christchurch, where most visitors start exploring the area around the modern business district with High Street as a great place to start. Do not miss a stroll at New Regent Street, where pastel-colored buildings offer a delightful mix of cafes, boutiques, and specialty shops.

The city center is best known for Christchurch Cathedral at Cathedral Square which is the dominant square in the city. The centerpiece of the square is the Anglican Christchurch Cathedral which has been a symbol of the city since its completion in 1904. Although it was significantly damaged in the 2011 earthquakes, restoration efforts are ongoing, and visitors can witness the remarkable rebuilding process. There are some sculptures as well like The Chalice by Neil Dawson and The Wizard of New Zealand.

The historic Christchurch Tram runs through Cathedral Square as well as the central streets of the city. It is a charming way to explore the city. The trams are beautifully restored and provide a narrated tour of Christchurch’s key sights. One of the options is to get off at the Botanic Gardens. The gardens is a must-see with a vast collection of exotic and native plants. Stroll through beautifully landscaped areas, including the Rose Garden and the Herbaceous Border, and enjoy the serene Avon River that winds through the park. You can also go punting on the river to enjoy a guided punt ride through central Christchurch.

If you want to know more about the natural and cultural history of the Canterbury Region, you can visit Canterbury Museum. It is located in the heart of Christchurch and the museum offers fascinating exhibits, and it is a great place to get more knowledge on topics as the area’s Maori heritage and Antarctic exploration from New Zealand. A more recent sight is the so-called Cardboard Cathedral, which was built after the 2011 earthquakes as a temporary church. Made primarily of cardboard tubes, it stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience and creativity.