Christchurch

Christchurch is situated a third of the way down the east coast of the South Island. In winter, it is common for the temperature to fall below freezing at night, and snow falls on average once or twice a year. To the east lie the Canterbury Plains, a renowned agricultural area. In recent years, the region’s produce has diversified, with a thriving wine industry springing up at Waipara, and the beginnings of new enterprises such as olive production and deer farming. The high-quality local wine has increased the appeal of Christchurch to visitors, as has the closeness of ski slopes in the Southern Alps. The city’s so-called “Cultural Precinct” contains several artistic institutions, including the Canterbury Museum and the striking modernist Christchurch Art Gallery.