Christchurch Rising
It wasn’t long ago that Christchurch resembled a struggling ballerina, fumbling her way across the stage in busted shoes and a tatty tutu. Now days, she’s more like a troupe of Michael Flatley’s best, stomping proudly in a perfectly coordinated show.
The care and detail undertaken by Councils, working groups, planners and visionaries to rebuild our South Island Capital is apparent everywhere you look.
Modern architecture peeks out from a heritage apron, grinning with pride. Historic buildings smile lovingly at the newly born and everything just fits.
Hardscaping juts out from green spaces that are shaded by hundred-year-old trees, providing abundant social space to soak up the refreshing urban vibe. The Avon River meanders through the City, totally oblivious to her place in Cantabrian’s hearts.
This place, once broken, now rises with the privilege of hindsight.
The city hums with industry as sharp, clean structures emerge from dusty footings. New technologies blend beautifully with the tried and true. Travellers, business folk and families explore a Tardis of malls, alleys and eateries. Bespoke Artworks adorn blank city walls adding interest and a feeling of excitement. Familiar bells of heritage trams ring out, calling the curious to tour the unique rebirth of a thriving metropolis. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee and street food lures the indulgent to taste.
Art is everywhere. Galleries, public displays, museums, architecture and landscapes call to be inspected at closer range. Carnival style food & craft stalls ply their wares in Cathedral Square. Hire cycles stand in racks waiting for the adventurous to pedal their own route of discovery. Hagley Park beckons as do the Botanic Gardens, a splendid spectacle especially in spring.
At Christchurch Airport, visitors are treated to impromptu musical shows in an eclectic artsy courtyard with its own public piano. Kiwiana style murals give newbies a glimpse of Kiwi Culture. The airport control tower ascends from the courtyard resembling an Olympic torch, symbolically changing hands as passengers arrive and depart. At night, its brilliant lights along with the illumination of the newly erected Gateway Bridge offer a warm and dynamic welcome to the city. Here, Antarctic explorers prepare to travel to one of the most inhospitable continents on our planet. Others visit the Antarctic Centre for a snapshot of life on the ice.
The Port Hills tempt those looking for a challenge, a day walk, or magnificent views. Activity options are endless. Wildlife & heritage parks, ziplines, walking tracks, mountain biking, bustling markets, shopping, historic sites, galleries, surfing & vast parks all blend with outstanding cuisine, fabulous accommodation options and unique attractions.
Post-quake Christchurch is a destination filled with a vibrant ‘newness’, It's exciting, interesting and authentic.
With grace and captivating splendour, Christchurch - Ōtautahi, is rising.