Christchurch is a vibrant city combining beautiful green spaces, innovative architecture, and rich culture, making it an ideal destination for an Anomaly. It is also 15 years into earthquake recovery from the 2010-2012 Canterbury Earthquake Sequence, and the rebuilt heart of the city is a vibrant place to explore with many hidden surprised in the laneways. Murals and gap-filler art installations have played a significant role in the recovery of Ōtautahi from the earthquakes.
You can take a shuttle, taxi, or public bus from Christchurch Airport to the city center, about a 15-minute drive away. Read about public transport options here
Consider hotels or accommodations in the central city or near Hagley Park for convenient access to local attractions.
Public buses and cycling are popular options for exploring the city. Check out the Christchurch Bike map
Visit the Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Art Gallery, explore local cafes, or take day trips to nearby Lyttelton or Akaroa.
You know that song about Melbourne - four seasons in one day? Christchurch can be like that too. Some stats about our December weather:
Mean wind speed for December: 17.1km/h, the afternoons are generally windier
Average rainfall for December: 50mm for the whole month
Temperatures: well, anywhere between 0 and 35℃, but the mean daily maximum is 21.1℃ and the mean daily minimum is 10.4℃.
Daylight: we’re only about a week of the summer solstice, so you should be getting 15-16h of daylight!
UV Index: it will be very high, so bring shady clothes and hats, and plenty of suncream!
The Māori name for Christchurch is Ōtautahi, derived from a Ngāi Tahu Chief Tautahi from Koukourarata (Port Levy). He built his settlement on the banks of the Ōtakaro (Avon) river in the vicinity of the Avon loop, serving as a centre for political and economic activity.
We'll add more over time. But here's one to get started - doing you know the American sitcom Parks and Recreation? Christchurch was used as the basis for the map of Pawnee!