Cathedral Square is the physical and symbolic hub of Christchurch, a  city of 340,000. Many festivals take place in this square including the Buskers festival in January.

Punting on the River Avon, verdant gardens and Victorian architecture give Christchurch a distinct "Merry Old England" flavour.

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu is an impressive architectural icon with gallery space for contemporary and historical collections.

Statues of Lord Nelson and Robert Scott (Antarctic explorer) are typical of the architectural tributes to heroes that New Zealanders hold dear.

The Arts Center is located in the original site of Canterbury University College. It now houses artisans' galleries, theatres, retail outlets and restaurants. Of particular interest is the museum and original lab and classroom of Ernest Rutherford, the Nobel prize winning discover of the atomic nucleus.

Within 20 minutes of Christchurch are a number of beaches which Canterburnians frequent on weekends and holidays. This is New Brighton Beach on the West Coast. Although the water is inviting it is still very cool. There is not much surfing or body boarding here.