Christchurch (Lyttleton), New Zealand

Christchurch is the largest city on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand. It is located on the edge of the Canterbury plains and is a major stepping off point for touring the South Island. Mountains, ocean beaches, rivers, lakes and wide open spaces can be found less than an hour from the city centre.

The Avon River, a spread of Victorian architecture, and the avenues and squares, are a responsible for Christchurch's reputation of "Englishness". Internationally famed 'The Garden City', one-eighth of its area is devoted to public parks, reserves, and recreation grounds, with the 186-hectare (459-acre) Hagley Park smack in its center.

Due to an earthquake which hit Christchurch on February 22nd 2011, part of the central city of Christchurch is still cordoned off to the general public to ensure people's safety while safety checks and the clearing of damaged areas takes place. This cordon is gradually receding as more of the city is deemed safe and open for business. It is likely however, that some isolated parts of the city will remain behind cordons for some time while rebuilding takes place.

Things to see and do

* Views from the Summit road
* International Antarctic centre
* Galleries
* Museums
* Tranz-Alpine rail experience

Cruise Season - Jan - Dec
Currency - NZ Dollar (NZ$)
Language - English & Maori
Land Area - 452 sq km's
Population - 331,400
Electricity - 2 Angled pins and 1 flat pin centred below Australian style
Time - GMT plus twelve hours
International Country Telephone Code - + 64

Port Location - Christchurch is 12km's from its seaport satellite town of Lyttelton. Christchurch can be reached by car using the Lyttelton Road Tunnel or bus.

Transport Links - Christchurch International Airport is a major transit airport for international and domestic travellers and there is a bus service to the city center. Buses, trains and hire cars are available.

Bikes are commonly used to get around the city, there is also a bus service and the Christchurch tramway.