A city worth exploring

Summer has arrived, so venture out and explore all our city and beyond has to offer.

ADRENALINE-SEEKERS 

How many of you have kayaked on the Ōtākaro Avon River? Ōtautahi Christchurch has one of the country’s only central city kayak launch ramps, direct into the river. It’s part of the Avon Loop walkway on Oxford Terrace and makes it easier than ever to explore the river from water level. Get out there and get amongst it! You’ll find it just off Kilmore St near Pomeroy’s. 

SURPRISE THE KIDS 

Waitākiri/Bottle Lake Forest Park is not just a hub for walking, biking, and horse riding; it’s also home to hundreds of fairy houses in the enchanting Fairy Village. Enjoy a taste of woodland magic, exploring the beautifully crafted and unique fairy homes. The fairy door walk is flat and accessible, suitable for kids, both young and old!

A WORLD AWAY

Corsair Bay is 20 minutes from the central city but feels like a world away. This spot is equipped with car parks, changing rooms, and links to Lyttelton via a coast walk. Hang out on the lawns or chill on the beach. Turn right on the Lyttelton side of the tunnel, and you’ll be there in two minutes, or head left off Dyers Pass Road for 10 minutes. 

CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE 

How about an accessible peninsula surrounded by birdlife and epic views? Why have we not all been to Southshore Spit? Weekend activity sorted. Boardwalks, open spaces, sand dunes, and an endless beach. Umm….sold! Start at South New Brighton Domain and head south along the estuary. Loop around the spit and come back along the dunes. 

A (QUIET) ROOM WITH A VIEW 

Tūranga was designed in partnership with mana whenua to reflect the cultural heritage of Ōtautahi Christchurch. Take in a grand view from the top floor around the central city, and peer into the Cathedral reinstatement project. There is an audio-video studio, virtual reality, 3D printing, robotics, exhibition spaces, a conference room, a café, the TSB Space community arena, and a children’s play area.

RE-COMMUNE WITH NATURE 

From Akaroa, take Long Bay Road to the crater ridgeline and down the outer side. The car park is approximately 1.5km down from the top. Hinewai Reserve occupies almost the entire Otanerito valley catchment and is crisscrossed by a network of tracks. Pick up a map at the entrance, and stop by Information Centre to appreciate this native forest regeneration project. 

THE PERFECT GETAWAY 

One of the city’s most scenic journeys is the drive between Christchurch and Akaroa. An Akaroa ‘must-do’ is a stay at French Bay House, a truly boutique bed and breakfast. One of the area’s original homesteads, the building and its surroundings are pretty as a picture, and the hospitality from owners Jacqui and Tim will make you never want to leave!

EXPLORE URBAN ARTWORKS 

Ōtautahi has emerged as a global street art capital, with artists bringing their creativity and talents to the blank canvases around the city. Watch This Space is a charitable trust passionate about preserving these works and ensuring their legacy. They host walking tours that take you on a journey of street art, murals, and graffiti