Christchurch Botanical Gardens:
Christchurch Botanical Gardens is a prominent attraction in New Zealand. It was founded in 1863 when an English oak was planted in the garden to commemorate the marriage of Prince Albert and Princess Alexandra of Denmark. The scenic location of the garden is close to Hagley Park and is contained within the loop of the Avon River. The Botanical Garden is rich in elegantly cultivated lawns and roses, which makes it a year-round fragrant place. It also boasts an array of flowering gardens filled with native trees and flowers. The Botanical Garden also hosts various events throughout the year, educating the public about the native flora and fauna. Dogs are not allowed entry at the park.
Avon River:
Avon River flows through the center of Christchurch and meanders into the Pacific Ocean through the Avon Heathcote Estuary. The river is natively called Otakaro (literal meaning: Place to Play), after the children who used to play on the river bank while the food was being gathered during the old times. The river passes through Riccarton Bush, Mona Vale, and Victoria Square and is one of the favorite spots of tourists for recreation and leisure. The river also passes through the Botanical Garden, Hagley Garden, and Millbrook Reserve to offer picturesque views to the onlookers. Punting and Fishing are two of the most attractive activities you can enjoy here.
Port Hills:
Port Hills, located in the Canterbury Region, is a range of hills between Christchurch and Lyttelton Port in New Zealand. One interesting story about the Port Hills is that it formed after a volcano erupted millions of years ago. The Port Hills is an important recreational site for the locals of Canterbury, with various trails for hikes and biking. The place is also rich in native flora and fauna – some include Bellbird, Fantail, Grey Warbler, Shining Cuckoo, Hebe, etc. Port Hills is popular for its tracks, which can be explored by walking, biking, or driving.
Hagley Park:
Hagley Park is a large open space in New Zealand adjacent to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. It is also the largest open space in Christchurch, even larger than London’s Hyde Park. The place is dedicated to the recreational purposes of the locals. The park is open to dogs and pets; therefore, it is the best place to spend some time with your fur friend. The Park also facilitates outdoor sports such as Golf, Netball, Petanque, Croquet, Tennis, etc. The park also offers plenty of trails to enjoy cycling and walking.
Sumner Beach:
Sumner Beach is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Christchurch. The beach has plenty of restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops for tourists to enjoy. A tour of Christchurch is incomplete without basking in the sun at Sumner Beach. Some popular recreation activities on the beach are Surfing, exploring Cave rocks, Fishing and Sunbathing.
