Here’s an updated list of what’s open in Christchurch after the earthquake – and also in the surrounding area. If you know other things please add them into the comments below so everyone knows!
Pop Up Mall
A revamped version of the Cashel Street mall was reopened at the end of October 2011. Temporary shops made from shipping containers make a colourful addition to city’s centre as it gradually reopens. The mall is home to 27 shops and is worth going to look at even if shopping is not on your agenda.
Black Cat Cruises
Stationed out in Akaraoa Harbour, the daily Black Cat cruise is a fantastic way to explore the area. There are cruises which are the best way to see the volcanic outer harbor and there is also the chance to see dolphins, seals and penguins in their natural habitat. There are also tours where you can swim with the dolphins. Just over an hour’s drive from Christchurch, Black Cat cruises are a perfect activity for all ages, and if you want to bring the kids along there are great rates for children.
McLeans Island
This forest section of the Waimakariri River Regional Park almost does it all, just 10 kilometers from Christchurch. It’s a great location for activities such as picnicking, mountain biking, walking and running. On top of this, it is a great destination for recreation activities which includes golf, shooting, horse riding, vintage car steam and machinery club, paintball, tank rides and Orana Wildlife Park. Come and check out the giant playground for all ages.
Surfing
The summer months offer a great opportunity for surfing some of Christchurch’s great beaches. Popular spots such as Taylor’s Mistake and Sumner Beach are great for surfing and offer the perfect way to spend the day.
Willowbank
Willowbank is the only place in New Zealand where you have access to such a wide range of wildlife. The reserve has natural bush surroundings and much of the wildlife is free to wander around so is able to be petted and fed. Willowbank also offers guided tours with knowledgable staff and a great cultural experience with their Ko Tane Maori Cultural Performances.
Ice Skating
Christchurch’s Alpine Ice Sports and Entertainment Centre is one of the best places to go ice skating in Christchurch. More than just ice skating, Alpine has light shows, music and games as well as a licensed bar and coffee lounge. Open all year round and offering group discounts and family passes, it’s a perfect way to spend the day.
03 3662213
www.alpineice.co.nz
Mountain Biking
If you’re looking for a great outdoor activity, Hanmer has some great tracks for mountain biking. These well maintained trails are a fun way to experience the Canterbury scenery.
Hanmer Springs
Less than 2 hours drive from Christchurch lies the idyllic town of Hanmer. The towns biggest attraction is their natural hot springs and mineral pools. With lots of pools and awesome rides, Hanmer Springs is a great way to relax and have fun.
Tour Canterbury’s High Country
For something a bit different, check out 4 wheel drive tours of Canterbury’s High Country. This magnificent landscape is home of Lord of the Rings Middle Earth and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’s Narnia. This unique part of New Zealand is well worth exploring at any age.
Antarctic Centre
For a family fun activity, visit Christchurch’s Antarctic Centre to experience a realistic glimpse of the Antarctic Region. As well as informative exhibits, visitors can ride in a hagglund and experience the snow and ice.
03 353 7798
www.iceberg.co.nz
What Else is Open in Christchurch After the Quake?
Here is a list which was updated on September 13th with other things that are open in Christchurch after the quakes. This has been provided by ChristchurchNZ.com.
4X4 ADVENTURES
03 314 2030
[email protected]
Akaroa Nature Cruises
03 328 9078
www.blackcat.co.nz/akaroa-harbour-nature-cruise/
Action Karts Christchurch
03 377 3730
http://www.actionkarts.co.nz
Adrenalin Forest
03 329 8717
[email protected]
Adventure Canterbury Ltd
0800 847 455
[email protected]
Air Force Museum
03 343 9508
[email protected]
Alpine Ice Sports & Entertainment Centre
03 3662213
www.alpineice.co.nz
Alpine Jet
03 318 4881
www.alpinejet.co.nz
Beadz Unlimited
03 3795 126
www.beadzunlimited.com
Black Cat Cruises, Akaroa
03 304 7641
[email protected]
www.blackcat.co.nz
Canterbury Aviation
03 359 8006
[email protected]
Canterbury Leisure Tour
0800 484 485
[email protected]
Canterbury Museum
03 366 5000
[email protected]
CanNZ Tours
0800 866 539
[email protected]
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
03 941 8999
[email protected]
Canterbury Trails
03 384 6148
[email protected]
Christchurch Casino
03 365 9999
www.christchurchcasino.co.nz
Christchurch Segway Tours
027 542 1887
[email protected]
City Cycle Hire
0800 343848
[email protected]
Court Jesters
03 963 0878
[email protected]
Discovery Travel
0800 372 879
[email protected]
Garden City Bowling
03 366 3323
www.amfbowling.co.nz
Glacier Explorers
0800 68 68 00
[email protected]
Glacier Sea Kayaking – Tasman &Mueller Glacier Lakes
03 4351 890
[email protected]
GreatSights Sightseeing Tours
03 365 1113
[email protected]
HELiPRO
03 3590470
[email protected]
Hassle Free 4WD/Jet Adventure Tour
03 385 5775
[email protected]
Hassle Free Alpine Safari Tour
03 385 5775
[email protected]
Hassle Free Lord of the Rings Tour
03 385 5775
[email protected]
Hiking New Zealand
03 384 3706
[email protected]
Horse Power
03 342-9246
[email protected]
Jet Thrills
0274 321 104
[email protected]
Ko Tane and Ko Tane free transport service
03 3596226
http://www.willowbank.co.nz/maori-culture-experience
Kowhai Tours
03 388 7899
[email protected]
Linden Leaves
03 339 8314
[email protected]
Maui – The Art of Maori Haka
03 366 0324
[email protected]
Orana Wildlife Park and Shuttle Service
03 359 7109
[email protected]
Pegasus Golf & Sports Club
03 920 3300
www.pegasusgolfcourse.co.nz
Pirates Island Adventure Golf
03 358 9250
Punting on the Avon & Antigua Boatsheds
03 366 0337
www.punting.co.nz
Rangitata Rafts
03 6963 735
[email protected]
Rubicon Valley Horse Treks
03 318 8886
[email protected]
She Chocolat
03 329 9222
[email protected]
Swimming with Dolphins
03 328 9078
http://www.blackcat.co.nz/swimming-with-dolphins.html
Skydivingnz.com
03 302 9143
[email protected]
South Pacific Motorcycle Tours Ltd
03 312 0066
[email protected]
Tanks For Everything
03 359 1007
[email protected]
Terrace Downs – Discovery Jet, Golf, The Spa
03 318 6943
[email protected]
The Inside Story Ltd (Tours)
379 8481
[email protected]
The International Antarctic Centre
Free transport on the Penguin Express
03 353 7798
www.iceberg.co.nz
Thrillseekers Adventures – Jet Boat, Rafting, Quad Bike, Bungy Jump
03 315 7046
www.thrillseekers.co.nz
Up Up & Away
03 381 4600
[email protected]
Waimak River Horse Treks Ltd
323 9064
[email protected]
Watford Grange Llama Park
03 347 4766
www.newzealandllamas.co.nz/home-page-xidc30375.html
Wild West Mini Golf
03 343 2055
www.wildwestminigolf.co.nz
Willowbank Reserve
03 359 6226
[email protected]
www.willowbank.co.nz
Yaldhurst Museum
03 342 7914
[email protected]
If you know other things please add them into the comments below so everyone knows!
Also check out the What’s on Map http://www.whatsopen.co.nz/food-entertainment/1/recreational
Image Credits
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alberth2/2076322120/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/68386142@N07/6223680091/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/tk_five_0/5992802633/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/mdenhoedt/4391056383/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/annabelleny/5275800251/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/nzer/2937270600/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/caacrinolaas/6292877594/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/sagek/3336951247/