March 17, 2026
CHRISTCHURCH, was my favorite city last time I visited New Zealand in 2016, and it didn't disappoint, for a second time! We had a gorgeous day to take in all the sights. Christchurch is on the other side of the volcanic mountains, from the charming port town of Lyttelton, a quick 20 minute uber ride through the tunnel. The area was devasted by an earthquake in 2011 and is still rebuilding, but the progress has been striking since I was last here.
The center of town, where the Cathedral has yet to have its' renovations completed, still shows the most visible signs of the devastation. I am a big fan of the simple "cardboard cathedral" they built in 2013 to replace. A Japanese architect Shigeru Ban designed it pro bono, with the local firm of Warren & Mahoney. They used 86 cardboard tubes ( like we use for concrete forms) to create a simple A frame. Shigeru characterized as the disaster architect has done similar projects after Japan's earthquakes.
There is lots of interesting street art.
We took the electric tram which allow hop on and off around the city. There is a great mix of culture, history, shopping and restaurants.
My favorite activity was Punting down the Avon River, alongside the Botanical Gardens, in the afternoon sunshine.
