TripNut Travel Reporter

from News.com.au

NEW ZEALAND’S Canterbury region offers some of the best winter escapes — spectacular snow adventures, indulgent foodie experiences and a landscape that just keeps on astounding. If you’re not into braving the great outdoors there are options for you too — think hibernating by a log fire perusing yet another wine menu. It’s tough … we know.

For urban fun Everyone should spend at least a few days in the thriving metropolis that is Christchurch — and this is one city that has everything covered. Five-star dining, luxe hotels, parks abundant in luscious green foliage and friendly locals that are keen to show you around. Since the earthquake Christchurch has rebuilt itself as a creative, funky, artsy city, and although echoes of the old city remain, locals have embraced the new look and shaped the new feel. Getting among it is contagious, which is perhaps why everyone is talking about Christchurch.

Things to Do:

Everything! Be sure to check out the colourful cardboard cathedral, a nod to the pop-up culture that Christchurch has become famed for. It’s made from cardboard (obviously) as well as timber, steel and concrete. What makes it even more unique is that the panels are from the original pre-earthquake cathedral.

Places to Eat:

Chillingworth Road for fine dining fun. Chef Darren Wright only recently re-entered the Christchurch fine dining scene and he’s done it in style. Beautifully presented, tasty food, often locally sourced. Apparently the fish comes straight from Wright’s father who fishes out of Akaroa — so seafood is a pretty good choice. Drink: Pomeroy’s Old Brewery Inn is an old English-style pub that boasts more than 20 tap beers, including Kiwi craft beers.

Where to Stay:

Base yourself smack bang in the middle of the fun at Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square.