Christchurch has over 330,000 and is the largest city in the South Island. It is well laid out in a grid pattern, interrupted by the Avon river wandering through it. It is an English city, with a central cathedral and many areas of parkland close to the city centre. Attractions: There is an excellent new Arts centre and the Museum and associated park ( Hagley..600 acres ) are worth a look.

Christchurch is known for its gardens and Hagley Park is as big as Central Park in New York. Autumn is a particularly attractive time to visit and appreciate the variety of autumnal colours. Beaches at Sumner and New Brighton are impressive,  and the Port Hills road gives a great view over Christchurch and the port of Lyttelton. The Antarctic Centre close to the airport is also worth a visit. It is different from the live exhibition of Antarctic life displayed in Underwater World in Auckland.