The Best-Kept Secrets in Christchurch, New Zealand

The Coastal Pacific Train offers an experience to its visitors that you are hard-pressed to beat throughout the whole of New Zealand. There are many famous trains throughout the world: The Trans-Siberian Railway, The Rocky Mountaineer in Canada… something about the elegance of the train makes it an ideal way of viewing the marvels of the natural world. With the Coastal Pacific Train, you can trace the scenic line where the vast mountains meet the sea while traveling in style and comfort.

The Ferrymead Heritage Park is a site that is committed to embracing and celebrating the past. It was originally developed in the 1960s by a group of heritage enthusiasts who wanted to create a place that celebrated and evoked the past for future generations to enjoy. As well as a reconstruction of an Edwardian town consisting of houses, schools and a theatre, visitors have the opportunity to ride in a steam train and use an old-fashioned printing press. The park is also home to many independent societies who stage their own exhibits such as ‘Ferrymead Aeronautical Society’.

No matter what time of year you come to visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, there is always a breathtaking spectacle to be seen. In accordance with the natural bloom cycles of its plants, the gardens will transform before your eyes into a picture-perfect display of the season. Here, as with much of the natural landscape of New Zealand, you can see first-hand how utterly spectacular the world can be just by being able to thrive in a protected environment.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens, 6 Rolleston Ave, Christchurch, New Zealand, +64 3-941 8999

In this cable car you’ll peacefully drift over the vast Canterbury Plains and impressive cityscape of Christchurch as its sprawls beneath you. Each pod is remarkably tranquil making this the perfect vantage point and way to travel over the land. This is an ideal and memorable way to celebrate any occasion, or just as a fun and novel day out.

Christchurch Gondola,10 Bridle Path Road, Christchurch, New Zealand, +64 3-384 0310

The Court Theatre is an independent theatre company in Christchurch that was founded in 1971. Every season it hosts an array of lively and enjoyable productions, from Shakespeare to musicals. The team is committed to bringing high-quality theatre to Christchurch. As well as in-house productions, ‘The Court Jesters’ are an entertainment company that can be hired especially for occasions.

The Court Theatre, Bernard St, off Lincoln Road, Christchurch, New Zealand, +64 3-963 0870

The Paint N’ Sip Studio is a friendly, artsy, sociable night out that you’re sure to never forget. Arrive at the studio, grab an apron and a drink, chat with fellow artists and spend a wonderful two hours creating your very own work of art while making new friends. All skill levels are welcome at the studio and photos will be taken throughout your session to commemorate the experience of you bringing your own masterpiece to life. Plus, you can take your canvas home with you at the end.

Paint N’ Sip Studio, 136 Ilam Road | Unit 3, Christchurch,New Zealand, +64 3-351 0879