LIVING IN CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch, known as 'The Garden City' is the largest city in the South Island and known for its English heritage. With gardens and parks throughout, bordered by hills and the Pacific Ocean, it is situated on the edge of the Canterbury Plains that stretch to the Southern Alps..

Plenty of adventurous activities await, from skiing and windsurfing, right through to mountain biking and rafting. There’s much to see and do in this beautiful city.

Buying & Renting

The Christchurch housing market is continually evolving, so for all the latest rates on buying and renting homes, take a look at the latest market reports by Barfoot & Thompson.

Mortgage rates are competitive and there are many options available to you, if you’re looking to buy. Local banks and financial institutions offer flexibility in terms as well as rates. If you’re unfamiliar with the New Zealand banking environment, looking into mortgage brokers will be of benefit to you. For all the latest in interest rates offered by major lenders in New Zealand, see www.interest.co.nz/borrowing.

If you’re looking to rent, a good starting point is the New Zealand Tenancy Services website, which you can locate here. Take a look at Getting Ready To Rent and Market Rent via Suburb to begin with and go from there. You can also take a look at websites, such as Trade Me Property or Real Estate NZ.

For up-to-date information regarding property trends and values, go to QV Trends or QV Value by Suburb.

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Hotels

As New Zealand’s largest city in the South Island, Christchurch offers accommodation to suit a wide range of tastes, styles and budgets. Click below to search for the accommodation that best suits you:

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Transport

Driver licences from a certain selection of countries are valid in New Zealand for either 12 months or until their expiry date, whichever comes first. For licences from countries not covered, an international driving permit is required. However, after 12 months either option must be replaced by a New Zealand driving licence. For further details, visit the New Zealand Transport Agency website: www.nzta.govt.nz

Public transport is a common way of getting around the city. Buses run frequently, connecting many suburbs and areas of Christchurch. Detailed information on timetables and services for The Metro Network can be found at s http://www.metroinfo.co.nz.

For detailed ferry timetables and excursions available see: www.fullers.co.nz

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Food, Entertainment & Shopping

Christchurch is known as the gateway to the South Island. While the city is still being shaped, there is much to see and do. Visit www.christchurchnz.com for all the latest.