Christchurch, New Zealand Photography

Photographing Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and its main gateway, set on the Canterbury Plains between the Pacific and the Southern Alps. Rebuilt extensively after major earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, it blends restored heritage with bold new architecture and street art.

Where to shoot

Botanic Gardens — riverside gardens and mature trees along the Avon in central Hagley Park
Cardboard Cathedral — the Transitional Cathedral built from cardboard tubes after the earthquakes
Christchurch street art — large murals across the rebuilt inner city
Banks Peninsula — volcanic harbors and the French-influenced town of Akaroa nearby

When to go

Late spring to autumn (November–April) brings warm, settled weather and blooming gardens; summer is peak season, while winter is cool and quieter.

What to eat

Canterbury lamb, fresh produce from the plains, and seafood including crayfish from the nearby Kaikoura coast.

Where to stay

The central city near Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens puts the rebuilt center, the river and the murals all on foot.

The murals are concentrated in the central rebuild zone and reward an unhurried walking circuit, with new works turning up between the cafés and laneways.