It's not hard to see why this place is often described as the most English of NZ's cities - walking around the botanic gardens, along the Avon River with the trees in their wonderful autumnal colours - you certainly feel like you are back in Blighty!
Highlights included the International Antarctic Centre where we were able to get a first-hand taste of -18°C wind chill (it's rather cold since you ask); going up the gondola which had great views of Christchurch and beyond; and visiting the Banks Peninsula and the small " French" town of Akaroa - again some lovely scenery.