Suspended above the suburbs of Christchurch, the Gondola whisks you nearly a kilometre to the Crater Rim of the Port Hills. See in the extinct volcano which exploded six million years ago, sheltering Lyttelton’s sparkling harbour and to the west, the Southern Alps seem close in the clear pure air and to the East, the ocean and the sky stretch as far as the eye can see. Experience the Time Tunnel, a dramatic reconstruction of the history of the Port Hills and Christchurch and revive your spirits with a snack at the new Red Rock Cafe.

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens showcase some of the flora of New Zealand and other parts of the world. Founded in 1863 with the planting of an English Oak tree, the Gardens now feature one of the finest collections of exotic and native plants found in New Zealand. Take time to explore the gardens, which are considered to be an oasis in the city of Christchurch with 21 hectares of horticultural displays, several conservatories, memorials, garden art and walking tracks.

After the February quake caused damage to the iconic Christchurch Cathedral, Japanese architect Shigeru Ban designed one of his famous “Emergency Architecture” buildings, and now the transitional 'Cardboard' Cathedral project is welcoming visitors. Constructed from a series of 96 cardboard tubes and framing, this is an exciting symbol of innovation, hope and inspiration for the city for the next 50 or so years.

St. Francis Cathedral is one of Santa Fe's historical gems. Serving as the representation of the Southwest's influential past under Catholicism, the Cathedral is a cultural landmark. There are plenty of photograph opportunities with the beautiful interior and classical art. Daily masses are still held.