No trip to Christchurch would be complete without a visit to the globally celebrated Botanic Gardens. The 52-acre Gardens feature hundreds of century-old trees, a heralded collection of roses, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest herbaceous border and numerous other themed exhibits. Art and architecture lovers may appreciate the collection of the Christchurch Art Gallery, Ravenscar House and a collection of galleries and artisan shops in the neo-Gothic buildings of the Christchurch Arts Centre.

Meanwhile, guests interested in food and wine may wish to explore the diverse collection of eateries at the Riverside Market, the Saturday farmer’s market at Riccarton House or a choice of restaurants at The Terrace alongside Christchurch’s River Avon. Guided culinary tours of the city’s historic core showcase both Maori and European history and tell the story of Christchurch’s resilience following the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, with guests able to sample several “tastes” of the city followed by an enjoyable lunch with their guide.

Nearby, the picturesque seaside neighbourhoods of Sumner and Lyttelton offer fantastic opportunities for both coastal hiking and scenic drives.