The city of Christchurch is located just north of Banks Peninsula, on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. It is New Zealand's only predominantly flat major city, and with a population of 400,000, it is the South Island's largest city. Because Christchurch is flat, getting around is easy, whether walking or cycling.

Christchurch has extensive parks and gardens in the inner city, including the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park, and is also known as the Garden City. Christchurch has also been called the most English city outside England, which is reflected in local styles and architecture. A neo-gothic Anglican cathedral lies at the centre of the city, Cathedral Square, where crowds gather to listen to buskers and speakers, including the Wizard of Christchurch.

The thriving Arts Market with its local crafts and ethnic food stalls, combined with galleries, studios and specialists shops make the Arts Centre one of Christchurch's most popular spots. The Arts Centre is also home to the Court Theatre, Southern Ballet Theatre and the Canterbury Film Society. Nearby attractions include the Robert McDougall Art Gallery , the Canterbury Museum and the new Christchurch Casino. 

Nearby Banks Peninsula provides a wide range of attractions, including the Mount Cavendish Gondola with its spectacular 360 degree views of Christchurch, and the French settlement of Akaroa. Christchurch is also within a short driving distance of several South Island skifields. The skiing season runs from June to November. Nearer to the city, there is excellent windsurfing on Lyttelton Harbour and in the Avon-Heathcote Estuary. World-class whale watching facilities are available at Kaikoura to the north of Christchurch.