Central Christchurch: Blending History and Modernity
Following the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, central Christchurch has undergone a remarkable transformation, blending innovation with heritage in its recovery. The rebuild has seen the rise of striking modern architecture, sustainable urban design, and vibrant public spaces, while preserving and restoring the city's iconic Gothic Revival landmarks where possible. The result is a unique cityscape where contemporary design and historic character coexist.
The Layout of the City
The city was established in 1850 and laid out as a grid, disrupted by the Avon River/Ōtākaro desptie many bridges, which meanders through the city. The central area is bounded by Bealey, Fitzgerald, Moorhouse, and Deans Avenues, with Cathedral Square at its centre. Notable attractions include Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, with numerous bridges maintaining the grid layout.
Exploring the City Centre
You can explore the central part of Christchurch on foot in a day, and a tram service runs every 10 to 20 minutes, stopping at key locations.
The modern heart of the city is Oxford Terrace, a focal point of post-earthquake redevelopment along the river. This area is home to various eateries with outdoor seating, offering views of the river and access to historic parks and sites, such as the Bridge of Remembrance and its archway.
At the northern end of Oxford Terrace, you'll find Victoria Square and the impressive, modernist Te Pae convention centre, with its colourful panels. Although some empty spaces and a derelict high-rise remain, plans are underway to develop these areas with new hotels.
After visiting the park, head east along Armagh Street to the astonishing Margaret Mahy Family Playground. From there, discover New Regent Street, a vibrant retail area that survived the earthquakes remarkably well. This street is lined with lively cafes, bars, and small shops, leading to Cathedral Square at its southern end.
Cathedral Square and Surroundings
Cathedral Square's main attraction is the Gothic revival Anglican ChristChurch Cathedral, constructed between 1864 and 1904. Although the cathedral suffered significant damage in the earthquakes, restoration efforts are ongoing. Other features of the square include the historic Citizens War Memorial and the new Tūranga library. Te Pae also occupies one side of the square.
From Cathedral Square, take Worcester Boulevard westward, then head south along Oxford Terrace to the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial, an intensely moving record of those who died during the earthquakes.
From there, cross the river and head north on Montreal Street. You'll encounter the architecturally striking Art Gallery on your right, which offers free admission and includes a shop and cafe. Turning back onto Worcester Boulevard, you'll find a series of Gothic revival buildings that now house the Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora. Explore its courtyards, galleries, and shops, and visit the open-air market held on Saturdays. The surrounding streets also feature historic wooden houses that withstood the earthquakes.
Cultural and Natural Attractions
From the Arts Centre, head north on Rolleston Avenue to the Ravenscar House Museum, which charges an entry fee but is highly recommended. Opposite the museum is Christ’s College, another example of Gothic revival architecture. To the south of the college lies the main entrance to the Botanic Gardens, a place where you could easily spend an entire day.
The gardens are nestled within a U-shaped bend of the river, with Hagley Park surrounding them on three sides. The park's north side is particularly worth visiting, with expansive fields dotted with mature exotic trees and edges lined with blossom trees, daffodils, and other flowers—a photographer's paradise in spring.
Getting to Central Christchurch
To reach Central Christchurch from State Highway 1, coming from the north, take Memorial Avenue, which becomes Fedalton Road and leads to Hagley Park. Drive around the edge of teh park to access Central Christchurch. Coming from the south on State Highway 1, turn east onto State Highway 73 (from the west) and then take Riccarton Road to Hagley Park. Go through the park on Riccarton Avenue to Central Christchurch. Once in the city centre, parking is relatively easy to find.
Places to visit near Central Christchurch include the Avonside Red Zone and Riccarton Bush.
