Blessed with temperate weather all year long, magnificent wildlife parks, world-class art galleries and a growing food & wine scene, it’s easy to see why Christchurch is becoming one of the trendiest tourist destinations in the Southern hemisphere. Do you want to come and experience it as a local? This compact city is better explored on foot, so join the best Essential Free Tour of Christchurch! A local guide passionate about their city will show you both the must-see landmarks as well as other places less visited by tourists. This well-paced tour around Christchurch historic center will take you on a journey from the first indigenous and European settlements in the area, to the dramatic 2011 earthquake that shattered the city, and how it recovered.

Standing next to the beloved Cathedral, you will learn how the city was founded by Europeans as a whaling station. In fact, Christchurch became the first official city in New Zealand in 1840, and it soon started attracting pilgrims. Settlers dreamed of building a city around a cathedral and a college as magnificent as Christ Church, in Oxford, England. (Hence, the name of the city.) Being such a cornerstone in Christchurch’s development, it’s easy to understand the extent of the blow for locals when the Cathedral was irreparably damaged by the 2011 earthquake. Your local guide will talk about these dramatic events and how the extraordinary Transitional Cathedral (popularly known as the Cardboard Cathedral) has become a permanent fixture.

Walking by the National Earthquake Memorial and the Bridge of Remembrance, your guide will also tell many stories of bravery and courage, so you can understand how Christchurch was reborn even fiercer than before. Of course, no Free Tour of Christchurch would be complete without a stroll down New Regent Street to take pictures of the photogenic rainbow houses, go window-shopping and visit the Tram Station. As you walk past coffee places, trendy restaurants and stunning street art, you will witness the youthful vibe of this charming city. Your guide will also share great tips about what to do in Christchurch, where to go partying by night and what food to order in the best restaurants. Book your free tour today!