Journey to the charming city of Christchurch/Ōtautahi on the eastern coast of the South Island/Te Waipounamu and discover a wondrous array of nature adventures and local arts and culture. The city’s relaxed atmosphere and close proximity to the natural world makes Christchurch the perfect getaway. Whether it’s exploring art amongst the city streets or embracing the wild side with the local animals, there’s something for everyone to be found in Christchurch.
Discover All Kinds of Creatures
Despite being only a small city, Christchurch boasts one of the most eclectic displays of animals that you can find anywhere in the country.
Featuring New Zealand/Aotearoa’s only open-air zoo, the Orana Wildlife Park in the city’s west is only a short fifteen minutes’ drive from the Hertz rental car branch in Christchurch West. This open range zoo is home to the country’s only gorillas, as well as other exotic animals such as giraffes, rhinos, lions, and even New Zealand’s very own national icon, the kiwi bird.
From international species to ones a little closer to home, head down to Akaroa to visit the adorable Pōhatu penguins. Despite a bit longer of a drive from central Christchurch at an hour and twenty minutes, this experience is an unmissable adventure that will introduce you to the largest Australasian little penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. This unique insight into the Pōhatu penguins is worth the journey, and there’s even a farmstay option for you to stay the night if you’d like to break up the trip.
Apart from housing the little penguins, Akaroa also makes for an incredible coastal getaway. Famous for being one of the cutest towns in the country, Akaroa is well known for its French cuisine and eclectic street art and murals, as well as the rare dolphins that can be found within the surrounding waters.
For another unique adventure a little closer to the city, there’s even the chance to visit penguins right in the heart of Christchurch West. The International Antarctic Centre is your very own slice of Antarctica, right here in New Zealand. Boasting a plethora of experiences that emulate life in the Antarctic, the whole family can experience a man-made snow storm, a simulated ride in the Hägglund Antarctic vehicle, and, of course, an interaction with the Little Blue Penguins.
Explore the History of Christchurch
A city that holds within its walls the fascinating history of the region, you don’t need to travel far to discover some of the interesting facets of life in Christchurch from over the centuries. Right in the city centre, begin with Christchurch’s contemporary vision of its city and the art that establishes it.
The Centre of Contemporary Art in the heart of the city boasts a range of rotating exhibitions that present the unique work of Kiwis and international artists, and is a perfect pairing with a visit to the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū. Art isn’t just bound to museums and galleries in Christchurch though—it can also be found in abundance on the streets. Take a tour through the city streets and soak up the eccentric urban artwork that adorns the buildings’ exteriors and laneway alley walls.
From there, you can journey into the past with a visit to Canterbury Museum and discover the stories of Waitaha Canterbury. This historic building not only houses a treasured history in the items it displays, but in the old walls of the majestic architecture that dates back to the 19th century.
For more exploration of Christchurch from the past, make sure to visit the heritage cottages at Mona Vale and Deans Cottage. The oldest surviving building on the Canterbury Plains, Deans Cottage is a relic that has been carefully maintained to transport you right back in time. Mona Vale Homestead is no different, being a beautiful building of a bygone era that even has its own restaurant that you can cosy up in with an old-style roast and a glass of mulled wine.
Embrace the relaxed city of Christchurch and discover all the ways to enjoy the surrounding areas. Nestled between untouched nature and vibrant city life, Christchurch is best explored behind the wheel of your Hertz rental car.
