Christchurch

Christchurch, the second largest city in New Zealand, is situated in the Canterbury region. With a population of over 300,000 people, Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island, and the gateway for visitors touching down at Christchurch International Airport to explore not only the city, but also the surrounding region of Canterbury, from Kaikoura in the north to Waimate in the south, and the rest of the South Island of New Zealand. The city is an attractive mixture of heritage and contemporary urbanity. Enjoy the meandering River Avon, historic churches and buildings, museums, galleries, parks and gardens. An all-day ticket on the historic tram lets you get on and off whenever you like. You can base yourself in Christchurch and make forays to south and north of Canterbury, Banks Peninsula and along the scenically gifted State Highway 72, which is known as the Inland Scenic Route

The mountains are only an hour and a half away, Canterbury boasts more than ten snow fields. Skiers and snowboarders travel here from all over the world to enjoy the reliable snow, wide range of runs and excellent equipment. The ski season ranges from June to September. The beaches are beautiful, sandy, clean and almost empty. New Brighton is the longest, miles of sand with pine trees growing beside the sand dunes. Sumner beach has the picturesque Shag Rock at one end .If the tide is out you can walk down to Cave Rock, and along the Esplanade. Taylors Mistake Beach is over the next hill. This is a sheltered cove with baches (small houses used for weekend retreats) along the shore .The walk along the cliffs has some dramatic views. All of the beaches are great for swimming, surfing and sailing with lifeguards on duty.

Beyond the city, Canterbury has so many exciting features. Discover the rich marine environment at Kaikoura, or the action-attractions, wineries and thermal pools in Hurunui. Step back in Maori, French and British history in Akaroa, Canterburys oldest village, or explore the magnificent Southern Alps by road, rail or on foot. Further afield, sample the relaxed provincial New Zealand lifestyle at Ashburton or Timaru, or make Methven your base for skiing, golf and enjoying the region’s verdant countryside. And also within easy reach is the stunning Mount Cook/Mackenzie area, renowned for its scenery, wilderness and hospitality.

Christchurch will host 5 pool games and 2 quarter-finals during RWC2011 and these will feature teams such as: Argentina, Australia,England,Italy and Scotland. These will be in the; Christchurch or Ami Stadium, Stevens Street, Christchurch, New Zealand.

Accomodation

For your stay in Christchurch, choose from a wide variety of accommodation in the city and throughout the suburbs. There are luxury hotels, apartments, motor lodges, bed & breakfasts and self-catering motels, as well as the more modest or budget establishments. Select from backpacker lodges, a youth hostel, holiday parks and campgrounds, offering budget accommodation, campervan and campsites. To find accommodation near the stadium or in the area check out the following listings just click on each name:

Hotels, Motels

Bed and Breakfasts

Holiday Parks or Camping

Car Hire

We are sure that many of you will be looking for car hire whilst you are in New Zealand. So click here to see our Pegasus page.