Christchurch Information
Christchurch, the “Garden City”, with its many beautiful parks, leafy avenues, meandering rivers, and stunning gardens is perfect for exploring on foot. Argyle on the Park motel’s location makes it easy to take a leisurely stroll through the spectacular Hagley Park and its beautiful Botanic Gardens. Take a punt ride on the Avon, or ride the Christchurch Gondola to the top of Mt Cavendish and enjoy stunning 360° views over Pegasus Bay, Banks Peninsula and the Canterbury Plains all the way to the Southern Alps.
Christchurch suffered a series of damaging earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, but the city is on the road to recovery, and post-quake Christchurch has been labelled one of the world’s most exciting cities by a number of international travel organisations. An array of unique bars and cafe venues quite unlike anything found elsewhere have popped up, community and entertainment events are staged around the city, and it’s just a 20 minute walk through the park from our complex to Re:Start, Christchurch’s unique and colourful upmarket shipping container shopping mall.
Other varied local attractions include visiting the International Antarctic Centre (experience life in the Antarctic complete with a penguin encounter and a snow and ice experience), Orana Wildlife Park (NZ's only open range zoo, with animal encounters on a daily basis) or taking a Lyttelton Harbour Cruise to view the endangered Hector's dolphins.
Christchurch is the international gateway to the South Island, and the surrounding area is a diverse and varied landscape of rugged ocean beaches, wide braided rivers, spectacular gorges, fertile plains, and beyond to the majestic Southern Alps. From bungi-jumping, jet boating and skiing for the thrill seekers, to hiking in the Port Hills, visiting award winning wineries or punting on the Avon for those wanting a more relaxing holiday, Christchurch has it all.
Enjoy a scenic drive from Christchurch with breathtaking views of the harbour bays as you drive over the summit of the Port Hills to Akaroa. Travel north of Christchurch to Waipara (a rapidly growing wine region producing world-class wine), continue inland to Hanmer Springs and relax in the hot pools, or head further north to Kaikoura where you can take a Whale Watch tour, swim with the dolphins, or sample the local delicacy of crayfish.
Railway Station - gateway to Scenic Jorneys
TranzAlpine
Climb aboard one of the world’s most famous train journeys, between Christchurch and Greymouth.
Coastal Pacific
Immerse yourself in the rugged coastal architecture of New Zealand. Travelling between Christchurch and Picton.
Christchurch City Attractions
Hagley Park and Botanical Gardens
Hagley Park is the largest urban open space in Christchurch, New Zealand, and was created in 1855.
Canterbury Museum
Visit and explore New Zealand's rich cultural and natural heritage. Learn about the past, present and future of Canterbury. There's always lots to see and do at the Museum.
Orana Wildelife Park
Set in 80 hectares within 15 minutes’ drive of Christchurch Airport, Orana Wildlife Park provides the ultimate animal adventure. We get you up close and personal with the animals.
Punting on the Avon River
An iconic Christchurch activity not to be missed. Admire the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens as you expertly guided gently along the Avon River.
Christchurch Gondola
The Gondola offers a unique Christchurch sightseeing experience that you'll never forget.
Christchurch Tram
Back on track on the city streets with a newly extended route, the Trams offer a unique experience combining history and sightseeing.
Hanmer Springs Jetboat
Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Waiau River on this exhilarating adventure activity. Jet through narrow gorges, white water rapids and braided shallows on our thrilling jetboat ride.
Hanmer Springs Bungy Jump
Free-falling 35 metres to the surging river below is a must-do activity for everyone at least once in their lifetime.
Hanmer Springs Rafting
Rafting down a grade 2 river will make certain for an exciting and enjoyable experience. The river changes quickly – drift down calm, serene waters to rough and rocky rapids.
Willowbank Wildelife Rserve
For the best kiwi viewing come to Willowbank and see our North Island Brown Kiwi in the nocturnal house.
Antarctic Centre
The International Antarctic Centre is your destination for authentic, interactive fun and provides an exciting experience of Antarctica for visitors of all ages.
Christchurch Heritage Park
Ferrymead Park features an early township, with exhibits such as houses, picture theatre, school classroom, church, jail, railway station, lodge hall, post office, printers and more.
Christchurch Airforce Museum
Discover New Zealand's military aviation history by exploring museum's galeries, displays and exhibitions.
Hagley Golf Club
Canterbury’s oldest golf course is right here in the middle of the city. First established in the 1870s the course hosted the 1893 New Zealand Championship.
