Unfortunately, the main museum was closed for renovation when I was there, so there's just a small…read morepop-up museum at 66 Gloucester Street in the meantime. Given the quality of the exhibits in the pop-up version, i was even more disappointed to miss the main museum! From the suit of armor stove to the full scale replica of a Maori meetinghouse made from yarn, this was a delightful stop!

I really enjoyed this small local museum in Christchurch…read more After arriving in town way too early in the morning, and wandering the neighboring botanical gardens, I entered the museum right as it opened. Opened in 1870, this elegant building was designed by B W Mountfort. Constructed of local grey basalt with rhyolite facings. Throughout time there have been several additions. But the main entrance still holds its stature. The Decorative Arts room was my favorite. As I stood in the doorway in awe of the rich dark carved wood, wood floor, and chandelier, an employee told me I was standing in the original main hall of the museum. As they are currently starting a remodel, I turned to him and said, "I hope they leave this room alone. It is simply gorgeous." It is true piece of time and craftsmanship. Some of the galleries were already closed while there. I did visit - Haast's collection of moa bones. This was one giant bird. Roman, Etruscan and Egyptian antiquities. Sculptures and bronze ornaments from the London International Exhibition of 1871. The Oldman Collection of Polynesian and Maori Artifacts. Fred and Myrtle's Paua Shell House. That was an interesting story. The museum has a great colonial collections of clothing, furniture, household items, stamps, artworks, architectural plans, maps, photographs, diaries, personal papers and publications. It even replicated a colonial street of shops full of wares. Nice touch. Allow a couple of hours Afterwards head to The Arts Centre. (Check that review) The world's largest collection of Moa bones

Living in the Bay Area, I was intrigued to see an earthquake museum when in Christchurch. Staff…read morestruck up a short conversation about earthquake experiences when I mentioned that I was from the Bay Area. Quake City was my second one and though it was much smaller than the one in Taiwan, it did a good job of presenting a variety of information, artifacts and more. The first person testimony of those who lived through the two consequential earthquakes gave insights into what went on, responses and impacts. I did find the hands on liquefaction exhibit to be quite educational and eye opening to the size of the affected areas. San Francisco had a similar problem in the 1989 quake. Well worth the admission and overall spent more than one hour here.

Relics, artifacts and memorabilia that tell the story of the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes that struck…read moreCanterbury and Christchurch. Much about how the city was damaged and a tremendous amount that shows the response and heroism that occurred afterwards. Lots of science and lots of video. The liquefaction demo was one of my favorite parts and it was interesting to see the spire from the Christchurch Cathedral. Absolutely worth a stop. [Review 386 of 2024 - 39 in New Zealand - 21419 overall]

It was a chilly and rainy day when we visited the Botanic Garden…read more The visitor center was our starting point, a bright and modern building with a well designed exhibits about the garden, history and more. A gift shop, busy cafe and clean bathrooms were also inside but most importantly warm. The conservatory was closed but the rest of the expansive garden was open and a helpful map displayed the highlights and walking path to explore during the autumn season. The paths were a combination of asphalt and gravel. While the gardens were in its autumnal colors we couldn't fully escape the sounds of the city with helicopters flying overhead to and from the nearby hospital. We ended our walk at the Peacock Fountain and caught the tail end of its water show. While we did not get to see many blooms, it was still a beautiful place to explore and would come back again on another visit to Christchurch.

Amazing with so many lovely flowers.. Rose garden is an absolute must…read more Enjoy the eatery's with excellent food ( sandwiches - Ruben almost like New York). Free entry but parking on weekends is difficult

Located right across from the Christchurch Botanic Gardens is another free place to visit, the Arts…read moreCentre of Christchurch. The Arts Centre takes up the entire block, and it's nice place to wander around and take in the architecture of the buildings, the numerous exhibits, and the beautiful scenery. There are also food trucks, cafes, small shops, and even a hotel! The exhibits are a mix of art and science with Rutherford's Den with sensory displays and the Physics Room, which is self-explanatory. While art isn't really my thing, everywhere was very well maintained and clean. I suppose the most interesting part was the "Floating House" above the courtyard. Overall, the Arts Centre is a nice place to walk around and enjoy the exhibits as well as find food trucks and other international eateries. It's right across the street from the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and nearby other attractions.

A mix of history and the present…read more Located in the heart of Christchurch, The Arts Centre is an Aotearoa New Zealand landmark - home to galleries, museums, cinemas, boutique retailers, artisan eateries and bars, engaging events, stunning venues and much more. Full of history and architectural beauty. Once these buildings were the home to Canterbury College (now the University of Canterbury). The 23 buildings are a fantastic place to spend some time. Take in the architecture, the quaint shops, a gallery, a bite, or stay the night. One of the buildings is a gorgeous hotel. As I wandered the grounds and buildings, I stumbled into more of the history. In the Clock Tower, the den is home to the actual rooms where Rutherford, the father of nuclear physics, studied while a student at Canterbury College. Including the restored Victorian lecture theatre. It felt a little bit out of Harry Potter. Imagine standing where Rutherford made so many scientific discoveries. Later giving us tv, radio, sonar and telephones. So many great shops and galleries I wandered through for almost three hours. I'm glad I found the center. Wished I had known more about it sooner.

Despite only having an hour, I was able to make good use of my time at the International Antarctic…read moreCentre. Although the staff recommend at least 2 hours, they were able to suggest the most important exhibits to check out in my limited time. The Antarctic Storm simulator was "refreshingly" chilly. I liked seeing & learning about the huskies. And, I found the 4D cinema enjoyable & a little funny. There's a lot of information covering all aspects of the Antarctic from geography to ecology to the way of life. The main disappointment was not being able to appreciate the penguins. It seems they were all asleep, so at best we could peek at them in their burrows. If I had more time I would have ridden on a Hägglund and maybe considered a guided tour. Because of the price, I don't think it's worth for me to go back again, so I'd suggest making the most of your visit.

The International Antarctic Centre was the highlight of my visit to Christchurch. It's conveniently…read morelocated right across from the Christchurch International Airport, with plenty of free parking on site. I booked my ticket at a discount through Bookme (similar to Groupon in the USA and Klook in Asia) for $52 NZD (regular price is $74 NZD). The deal required a 9am entry, which actually worked out perfectly since the center was much less crowded. The exhibits offer a great mix of history and hands-on experiences about Antarctic research, clothing, vehicles, and the different international stations. A few interactive highlights are absolutely worth doing: Storm Simulator Room: The room starts at 8°C (46°F), and then powerful fans simulate a blizzard, dropping the temperature to -18°C (0°F). Jackets are provided, so it's cold but manageable--and very fun. Penguin Exhibit: You can watch little blue penguins swimming and playing in their habitat. Husky Dog Encounter: Staff introduce several breeds of huskies historically used in Antarctica that you can also pet. Hägglund Ride: Included with admission, this all-terrain vehicle ride takes you on an outdoor obstacle course over steep hills, uneven angles, and even across a 1-1.5 ft gap to show how the tracks handle extreme terrain. It's a bit bumpy but incredibly fun. There's also free Wi-Fi, a café, and a water fountain located inside the café if you need to refill your bottle. Highly recommend visiting--it's educational, memorable, and one of the best experiences in Christchurch.

This art gallery is FREE, but donations are encouraged to continue this. A great indoor activity to…read morekill at least 1-2 hours depending on your interest and level of appreciation for art. The museum floor plan is expansive, spanning from the ground level to the upper floors, so it's a must do while in Central ChCh. Plenty of portraits, abstracts, and modern art to learn about. I especially loved how many a piece paid tribute to the Maori culture. I was able to learn about their plight, stolen lands, and continued struggles in the present to reclaim their land. Lands which have seemingly transformed and ultimately have been destroyed to the point of unrecognition. It's crazy how history repeats itself in different parts of the world. An amazing gallery with beautiful pieces! A perfect way to learn about New Zealand and its culture!

Art, art, art. This is the fun stuff I want to see what I travel and this morning's visit to the…read moreChristchurch Art Gallery was a fabulous way to see exactly what I wanted. Especially so on a drizzly day. Perfect museum day! Expect two hours of great portraits, landscapes and abstracts. A few names I recognized like Hepworth and Rodin. And definitely look around and up at some of the pieces hanging from the ceiling and along the stairs. Easily miss able and that would be a shame. [Review 384 of 2024 - 37 in New Zealand - 21417 overall]

For the views and a little of Christchurch's past, the cable car ride to the top of the Port Hills…read moreis a must. You see Lyttelton Harbour in view and even the Southern Alps on clear days. At the summit, you'll find a historical exhibit about Christchurch's geological and cultural history, including the volcanic origins of the region. There was an earthquake here in 2010 and 2011, both causing severe destruction and massive chaos.

A bit far from the central business district but accessible on the bus network (30 minutes or so,…read moredepending on traffic), the Christchurch Gondola is a cable car that climbs Mount Cavendish. From the top (445 meters / 1460 feet), you can see the Christchurch skyline as well as down into Lyttelton Harbor. If your weather is mostly clear, don't miss this. If it's cloudy, I would suggest waiting it out. A gift shop and restaurant at the top has meals, snacks and ice cream. They are strict about last call at 5:00 pm and if you're taking the bus, note that the bus might not come into the parking lot after 5:00 pm so you need to go to the stop on the street. [Review 393 of 2024 - 46 in New Zealand - 21426 overall]

This lovely museum is quiet and well run with knowledgeable, friendly volunteers on hand to help. I…read morehad a long conservation with one of the volunteer shift leaders who was interesting, helpful and informative, it is important to keep places like this going....lest we forget! Well behaved children welcome, not a place to let your kids run riot, mothers take note please!

I've been here many times and each time it seems to get better. Of course it's best if planes/Air…read moreForce is your thing, and quite honestly i could stare at the Tiger Moth in the foyer for hours. It's great though, awesome place to take the kids or spend a rainy afternoon.