ENJOY CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch comes alive in Summer - from the hot, sunny days relaxing at Sumner beach, to the variety of restaurants and bars that bustle well into the evenings, to the entertaining and exciting SummerTimes events. So don't miss the opportunity to come to Christchurch in early March and enjoy the last of these special summer days before the Ellerslie International Flower Show gets under way.

Take the opportunity to have a refreshing break and explore the region. Christchurch, the Garden City, is known for its ‘big backyard' and this time of year is perfect for discovering all it has to offer. So after all the roses have been smelt and begonias have been admired - why not rent a car and take a trip to a nearby getaway?

• Christchurch | South Island, which includes the prestigious wine regions of Nelson, Marlborough, Waipara Valley, Canterbury and Central Otago, has recently become the newest member to the Great Wine Capitals Global Network. Christchurch City is the perfect gateway to explore these local areas and the fine wine they have on offer.
• If some relaxation is needed, head north to Hanmer Springs for some decadent pampering in natural thermal pools.
• Experience the invigorating outdoors amongst the majestic Alps or drive out to the Banks Peninsula and stay in the quant township of Akaroa.

For more information visit www.christchurchnz.com

How to get around

Hagley Park is located in the centre of Christchurch, so there are plenty of ways to get to both Ellerslie and the attractions around city.

• Red Bus run frequent services around most parts of the city. For detailed information, visit www.metroinfo.org.nz.
• The tram will be running throughout the inner city and part of the route takes passengers directly to the Armagh St entrance to Ellerslie.
• Blue Star Taxis are the official taxi provider of the show, call 03 3799 799. There will be a taxi rank situated just outside the Harper Ave entry to the show.
• For rental cars, call Pegasus on 03 358 5890.
 
Attractions and activities

Christchurch, the Garden City, really is a great place to be when the weather is warm. While enjoying the delights of the Ellerslie International Flower Show, take the opportunity to explore the other, more permanent, parks and gardens Christchurch is renown for. From family entertainment, outdoor action, rich culture, premium food and wine, and exciting nightlife - there's something for absolutely everyone in Christchurch. For more information visit www.christchurchnz.com.

Hagley Park will of course be alive with rich colour and activity during the Ellerslie International Flower Show. If you're looking to visit another inner-city oasis, head to Riccarton Bush with its two historic buildings and almost 12 hectares of native forest reserve featuring 600-year-old kahikatea trees.

Punting on the Avon River is an iconic Christchurch attraction and a charming way to learn about the city. If that's too sedate, there are thrill seeking activities, like jet boating and Adrenalin Forest to sign up for. Many residents say they live in Christchurch because of the easy access to the outdoors - and with the array of walking and mountain bike tracks on offer, they're not wrong.

For a more panoramic experience of Christchurch, rise out of the city and enjoy the views from the Christchurch Gondola, which glides from Heathcote Valley to the top of Mt Cavendish. Victoria Park also offers views of the city, Canterbury Plains and Pegasus Bay as well as bush walks and mountain bike trails.

For the avid golfers, Christchurch has a large number of courses, including Christchurch Golf Club, which Sir Bob Charles is a former club patron and champion of. Clearwater and Terrace Downs, about an hours drive from Christchurch, are luxury resorts with 18-hole championship golf courses.

For more information visit www.christchurchnz.com

The Arts Centre Market

Just a five-minute stroll from Hagley Park, the renowned Arts Centre Market will be open everyday during the Ellerslie International Flower Show, 9 to 13 March, from 10am to 4pm. 
Well-known for its eclectic mix of New Zealand-made art and craft, and its international food fair, the market is a must-see Christchurch attraction. Set among the 23 historic buildings of the Arts Centre, time spent at the market makes for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy an extraordinary blend of attractions including over 80 stalls of local fashion, art, craft, entertainment and mouth-watering food.

And on Friday 11 March, the Arts Centre Friday Farmers’ Market will add local seasonal produce and artisan food products. From fresh fruit and vegetables, and specialty goods to continental-inspired meat products and boutique wine, the market’s enthusiastic stallholders sell what they grow, gather, farm, preserve and bake.

The Arts Centre Market during Ellerslie: 
10am to 4pm, Wednesday 9 to Sunday 13 March, Market Square at the Arts Centre, Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch.
For more information visit www.artscentre.org.nz