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]

I love this library!! Located next door to the Cashmere Club on Colombo, this City Library is one…read moreof the prettiest, most modern and family friendly. I wish this place opened earlier than 9 am on weekdays (10 am weekdays) as there is always a line forming out front by 8:30, but it is open until 7pm during the week. It's rarely quiet in the front near the cafe, so if you're here to study, head to the back tables; however, be prepared for the noise to amp up once school lets out around 3pm. There are computers available for visitors and members (free 30 min pass for visitors, 1 hour 3x/day for members (which is free!)). You can rent DVDs, TV shows and cd's and new release books (for cost) or check out older books and magazines for free. You are able to remotely download e-books and music for free (or nominal fees depending on popularity) as well as access their databases. Great for people doing research. I come in for the free WiFi to work on my blog while our house is still internetless. I can enjoy my cappuccino anywhere on the premises and don't have to clean up after myself. The cafe has your basic cafe sandwiches and baked goods as well as small snacks and some healthy salad options. There is an outdoor patio, too, if you want to make a phone call. Brought a dog? No worries, tie them up outside near the waterbowls and bike racks. They have a great children's section and I often see classes (arts and crafts/history/etc) being taught in the afternoons for small kids. Anyone can join. They also have video game consoles and two large screen TVs that will have Animal Planet, football or rugby on. The many floor to ceiling windows make this place bright and cheery and the modern decor and earthy color palate relaxes your mind and soul while you study. Love Love Love this library, come check it out!

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