Christchurch is a city still recovering from a devastating earthquake four years ago. The devastation is still very much in evidence, with buildings being shored up with shipping containers. They are slowly sorting out the insurance claims and rebuilding although it is obviously going to take years. We took the open-top bus tour and that gave us a very good overview and insight into the tragedy. Would recommend doing this, the commentary is excellent. The tram is good but only does a small circuit.
The Botanic Gardens are worth a visit too, as is the little cart that gives you a tour round. You can pick this up at the entrance and either go all the way round or stop at the cafe – food very good here.
The Container Mall is a shopping area (quite small) where the shops are all housed within shipping containers. This is to replace the shopping centre which was destroyed during the earthquake.
The Curator’s House on the edge of the gardens is a very nice restaurant, but do make sure to book!
