PORTS OF CALL - Australia / New Zealand
Christchurch, New Zealand
Named after a college at the University of Oxford, England, Christchurch has a reputation for being a conservative, "British" city. This may be true on the surface, but a bit of poking around this largest city of the South Island, population 360,000, will reveal a vibrant arts culture and adventurous spirit that's 100% "Kiwi."
Don't Miss
Christchurch has traditionally been a jumping-off point for most Antarctic expeditions. In fact, Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton both passed through on their way south. But you can just visit the International Antarctic Center to play with penguins, leopard seals and snowmobiles, as well as learn all about Antartica, without freezing your toes off.
Sporting Adventures
Perhaps because of its awesome location on the beach, surrounded by mountains, Christchurch has embraced the adventurous lifestyle indigenous to New Zealand. Skiing, jetboating, hang gliding, yachting, windsurfing, white-water rafting, hiking, fishing, golf - it's all here, along with rugby, cricket and netball, a women's game kind of like basketball, kind of not.
Shopping for Bargains
Great bargains and unique finds can be had all along New Regent Street, an architectural highlight of the city that features boutiques, cafés, restaurants and a lively atmosphere. If you're in the mood for something particularly New Zealand-y, check out the Form Gallery at the Christchurch Art Gallery for top-notch locally produced arts and crafts. Take in a painting or two while you're there.
Local Flavours
Being this close to the ocean, fresh seafood is a specialty around Christchurch; being New Zealand, fresh lamb is also going to be plentiful. But with the highest ratio of eateries to people in the country, you'll find something to suit any taste. If you can, try the fish and chips for a quick culinary history lesson on Christchurch's founding.
Currency
Currency is the New Zealand dollar, currently worth about $0.65 USD. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are everywhere. Moneychangers are widely available so don't expect any real trouble converting currency or travelers checks, but do shop around for the best rates.