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The history and heritage of Christchurch is tied closely to the English settlers who first established the city in 1850. One of the most popular sights in the city is the historic Christchurch Cathedral located in the centre square of the city. Tours are available most days, check with the church tourism office for details about times and days. If you are really adventurous and don't mind paying a small fee, you can even climb the cathedral's bell tower to get a bird's eye view of the area.
When you go up one or even two floors above street level you can easily understand where Christchurch gets the nickname of the Garden City. The city was laid out and developed with great care taken to preserve as much greenery and foliage as possible, so many of the streets and suburbs are filled with trees, bushes, and other greenery. It sometimes seems as if the city has sprung right from the middle of a forest!
For a chance to view the last remaining section of original native forest, head out to Riccarton Bush located just outside of the city. There you will find a terrific walking trail meandering through the native trees and foliage, including Kahikatea trees, ferns, climbing vines, and more. It is also home to the oldest house still standing in Christchurch; called Dean's Cottage, it dates back to 1843 and is in surprisingly good condition.
In recent years, Christchurch has become a leading centre for research and development of computer software, electronics, and other high-tech equipment. This is rapidly turning into a major part of the city's economy and it shows in the diverse people who come to the city for professional and career reasons. Interestingly, Christchurch is also a major destination for foreign exchange students from Asia so you will find many cyber cafes, restaurants, and other services targeting these students of educational institutions.
Many people do not realize that Christchurch is a major jumping off point for scientists and other personnel headed to Antarctica. As such, there is a terrific place to learn about what it's like in the Antarctic and even experience simulated conditions there. The International Antarctic Centre is a unique facility where visitors can feel what it's like to work in Antarctica and also view wildlife native to the frigid continent such as penguins and other waterfowl.
For a truly authentic opportunity to hike and soak in the spectacular scenery in and around Christchurch, you absolutely cannot miss visiting Summit Road. This incredible road and walkways take you around and across the crest of Port Hills, offering memorable views of sweeping vistas as well as a pleasant hike. It's common to see sheep crossing the walkways at various points during the hike, as they pass near and through several operating sheep farms. Visitors can take a bus up to the Summit Road and then walk around, drive their own hired car up there, or rent a mountain bike and pedal up to the road and walkways.
Christchurch International Airport is New Zealand's busiest and most important airports, with both international flights and domestic flights alike. Even more interesting are the many military aircraft that use this airport because it is the main airport facility serving McMurdo Station in Antarctica. Because of the varied number of flights and major air carriers, it's relatively easy to book convenient air travel for your Christchurch holiday vacation.
Wiki:- Christchurch
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