Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city on the south island of New Zealand. It is the commercial center for the island and the main entry point for tourists coming to the South Island for a holiday. Christchurch has lots of attractions in its own right and is known as the city of churches. There are many historical older buildings in the city as well as modern hotels and apartments that provide plenty of great Christchurch accommodation. There is an international and domestic airport and regular flights arrive direct from Australia and many other domestic destinations. It is the accommodation center for skiers coming to the south island who want to ski at Mount Hutt, Hanmer Springs or some of the other ski resorts in the Arthurs pass region.

There are many tours that take tourists to see the South Island of New Zealand that originate from Christchurch. It has a very central location and it is within easy reach of places like Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Queenstown and the northern regions around the Marlboro Sounds. This makes Christchurch the ideal starting point. The Trans Alpine Rail departs from Christchurch on its spectacular journey through the mountains to Greymouth on the west coast. Many tourists from around the world come to the country especially to take this tour.

The campervan and motorhome hire industry that services New Zealand's South Island has its headquarters in Christchurch. All of the major companies are here and they have an enormous range and number of vehicles on offer. Most of the depots are close to the airport so it is a really convenient place to start your holiday. Christchurch also has some great holiday resorts to choose from. If you like golf then choose the Clearwater resort with its fabulous championship layout.

If you are thinking about a New Zealand holiday then make Christchurch your base when visiting the South Island.