Christchurch, known as “The Garden City” is the second largest city in New Zealand. It is the gateway to the rest of the South Island and all it has to offer. Perfectly positioned to take advantage of the region’s spectacular natural beauty, the city itself is a vibrant and buzzing hub. In New Zealand, walking is virtually a national pastime and, for the visitor too, it is the perfect way to explore both the city and its surrounding areas.

A Stroll in the Park

Christchurch is well-appointed to earn its name as the Garden City and has some beautifully manicured gardens which are easily accessed from the city centre. Hagley Park is a massive 165 hectare space which contains sports pitches, cycle and running tracks, a wetland park and lots of mature wooded areas. Hagley Park is the true heart of Christchurch and one of the best kept municipal gardens in New Zealand. Walking along the many tracks which criss-cross the park would make for a wonderful lazy afternoon; and if you’re lucky enough to visit Christchurch during one of the two floral festivals each year, you will be able to view the park in all its blaze of colourful glory.

World-class Wine

A city of many guises, Christchurch is also the wine capital of New Zealand. Walking amongst some of the wineries of the region you could be forgiven for thinking you have stumbled into France. In fact Christchurch is ranked alongside Bordeaux and the Napa Valley as one of the world’s top wine producing regions. Within a short driving radius of Christchurch there are many wineries you can visit on a day trip, where you will be able to sample acclaimed varieties of wine that are now famous on the world stage.

Adrenaline Anyone?

Christchurch is also the place to come if you want to experience the wilder side of New Zealand. Walking through lovely city gardens and tripping off wine-tasting is just not enough for some adrenaline-junkies and they may want to try something a little more energetic. If this is you, the choice in Christchurch is easy: skydiving, hot air ballooning and paragliding are all activities that can show you a very different view of the city.

A Cultural Attraction

If jumping out of a plane is not exactly your idea of fun, then for a quieter pursuit in Christchurch head to one of the city’s art galleries or museums. The Christchurch Art Gallery houses the largest collection in the South Island and the Canterbury Museum is home to the fascinating Hall of Antarctic Discovery.

Back to Nature

But of course, this is New Zealand and so, quite apart from the cultural and historical attractions, Christchurch is also renowned for its dedication to conserving and maintaining its unique animal populations. Head to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve to view its kiwi breeding program as well as seeing a host of other native bird life of New Zealand. Walking around the park is a delightful way to spend a day, surrounded by the melodic calls of the feathered population.

Author Bio: Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While in New Zealand walking with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Category: Travel
Keywords: New Zealand walking