Christchurch (Lyttelton) Cruise Guide

Overview

The port of Lyttelton, on a sheltered harbour formed by an extinct volcano, serves the neighbouring ‘Garden City' of Christchurch, the largest and most English city on New Zealand's South Island. The early Maori and European history of the area is evident in 11th-century churches and castles, Saxon mills and burial grounds.

The Canterbury Region is scenic and spectacular, with its picture postcard Mount Cook, snow-covered mountains near the Tasman glacier and beautiful lakes. Christchurch is a quietly elegant city, graced with gardens and historic buildings, best enjoyed by foot, tram or boat cruises.

Sightseeing

The River Avon flows through the centre of the distinctively ‘English' Christchurch, flanked by tree-lined avenues, old stone buildings and stately homes.

Take in the spectacular views of Christchurch, Lyttleton Harbour, the Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains on the gondola ride to the summit of Port Hills. For excursions from Christchurch, the nearby Banks Peninsula has a number of excellent beaches and bays suitable for swimming and other watersports. Explore historic houses, villages and castles along the Dorset coastline.

Christchurch is a popular base for outdoor activities in the South Island, such as cycling, rock climbing, hiking, skiing, sailing, kayaking and hot air ballooning.

Highlights

• River Avon
• Old Canterbury University
• Canterbury Museum
• Christchurch Art Gallery
• Holy Trinity Church, Canterbury
• Lyttelton Timeball Station Museum
• Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa
• Kaikura Fur Seal Colony
• Mount Cook
• Tasman Glacier

Tourist Information

Christchurch i-SITE Visitor Centre
Old Chief Post Office, Cathedral Square, Box 2600, Christchurch, NZ
Tel: +64 3379 9629.
Website: www.christchurchnz.com

Shopping

Christchurch has an excellent shopping and entertainment district South of Litchfield, with cafes, bars, nightclubs and boutiques. Victoria Street offers a mix of fashion, design, furniture and interior décor stores, and the International Food Market draws huge crowds every weekend. Uniquely New Zealand products include greenstone and paua shell jewellery, intricate wood carvings and woollen and sheepskin items.

Eating Out

Many farmers' markets in the region have encouraged the trend towards fresh local and organic produce in Christchurch. Taste the multiethnic cuisine, with a unique New Zealand flavour, or relax over a typically English afternoon tea.

When To Go

Christchurch has a mild climate, with summer (December - January) temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59-77°F), often moderated by a sea breeze. Winters can be chilly, with snow mostly falling in the mountains.

Transfer Times

Nearest Destination

Christchurch.

Transfer Distance

11km (6.8 miles).

Transfer Time

20 minutes.

Key Facts

Region

New Zealand

Time Zone

GMT + 12.

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents.

Language

English and Maori.

Location

Halfway down the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, and 12km (7 miles) from Christchurch.

Population

3, 072.

Government

Constitutional monarchy since 1907.

Religion

55% Christian: Anglican, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic and Methodist are all represented. Significant population of native Maori.

Social Conventions

Casual dress is widely acceptable. New Zealanders are generally very relaxed and hospitable. If invited to a formal Maori occasion, the hongi (pressing of noses) is common. Smoking is restricted where indicated. It is banned in pubs and restaurants as well as on public transport or in public buildings.

Tipping:
Service charges and taxes are not added to hotel or restaurant bills. Tips are not expected.
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