#Christchurch Botanical Gardens

[bluedesignwall]

After eating lunch under a shady tree I went to check out the Dalia garden. It is still a sea of colour.

[nikfiendluvr666]

Assorted flowers, Cantebury memorial rose gardens, Christchurch, 2020.

[cllnsllvn]

M&M visit C in C

Meghan and Megan came to visit! They arrived on Tuesday around noon, so we jumped straight in to lunch! We went to a place just down the street from my flat that has been recommended to me several times called Little Poms. It was an excellent excuse to finally check it out!

Once we finished lunch, I had to finish up my work day, so I sent them on a walk in the Red Zone. Red Zones are areas that are unsafe to rebuild on post-earthquake due to the sustained damage. This particular Red Zone was previously a neighborhood and is now only empty lots. All buildings have been torn down, and cars are not allowed to drive the streets. It has become a popular walking and biking path for locals. It's my regular walking path, so I was surprised when they came back from the walk saying that it was a bit longer than they had envisioned for a post-lunch walk.

After the big travel day, we went to the Meg(h)ans AirBnb and played a few rounds of NZ Trivial Pursuit - even though they had been traveling for 24 hours, I still lost!

I had to work the rest of the week, so the Meg(h)ans had to entertain themselves the first few days. They were staying in New Brighton - a good spot for its proximity both to me and to the beach. They could walk down the street to a little coffee cart and then be straight on the beach, and I was about a 15-minute drive away. They went to the beach for a bit, and when I got out of work we drove over to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

The next day, we went to the Christchurch Night Market, which takes place every Thursday on the rooftop level of the Hornby Hub parking garage. It's a great little market with tons of international food options. We bought a few things from a few different places - I made the Meg(h)ans try barbecued pork intestine because I had had them with a friend once before and actually enjoyed them!

Here's everything we got:

Cochina (Brasil) chicken croquettes

Bao (China) steamed pork buns

Pork and intestine (Philippines) served on skewers with dipping sauce

Peach tea (Taiwan)

Pickled quail eggs (Philippines)

Mince and cheese hand pie (New Zealand)

A tasty time was had by all!

[dec0mposing]

Woodlands Bridge, Botanical Gardens. Christchurch, New Zealand. 1920s. Photograph

[albert-tsum]

The Botanic Garden in Christchurch

I am wondering which flowers Wesker likes the most

[clivemwilliams]

New Zealand 2024/25

Christchurch 14-17 December

We are continuing to have a great time here in Christchurch and spending precious time with my favourite New Zealand granddaughter. She has got to be the most bouncy and smiley baby so prepare yourselves for more heartwarming photos!

We’ve spent the past few days visiting the local parks and cafes, often with Alfie the dachshund in tow. I say in tow but it’s actually us who are being towed as he is such a strong puller!

At the weekend we went to a market at the arts centre in town. It was very extensive with an excellent variety of local arts and crafts and produce and good food stalls, in particular the stall that sold cheese raclettes with extra sausage!

We also walked to a more local street market which featured children singing a selection of Christmas songs - some of which were even partly in tune! On the same walk we went to the library to get some books for Andrew and Maddie. Unlike back in the UK where libraries seem to be in decline they are thriving out here. The arts and crafts sessions for children, a cafe, and being open on Sundays all contribute to making a visit to the library a really enjoyable family occasion.

Today we went with Lydia and Maddie to a sensory play session at the arts centre as well as a stroll around the impressive botanical gardens.

Tomorrow Judith and I are going to Kaikoura for a few days. This is the main whale watching centre in New Zealand and whilst I’m sure a whale watching boat trip might be too extreme even for my seasickness tablets we are still hoping to see some of the other abundant wildlife in the area.

I’m also hoping to get some nature and scenic photography done in contrast to my recent overload of baby photos!

[lifebuoyjournals]

(Travel Journal)

New Zealand 2022: Christchurch

Christchurch was so much smaller and quieter than I had expected, especially having lived in Melbourne for years. It felt very much to me like a big town than a city, resembling Ballarat or Bendigo in Australia, but with its unique charms, of course.

We visited the Tannery (Yes I've posted this spread inspired by the vibes there before, so this is a re-post), a quaint shopping area with beautiful boutiques and vintage shops. Most of the time however, we were around the Riverside Market, trying the local produce or just enjoying the vibes of the place.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens was definitely a highlight, with flowers I've never seen before, massive trees, beautiful water features and charming rose gardens. I enjoyed Christchurch Botanic Gardens more than the one in Auckland, although the weather probably played a big part! The curated experience of the two gardens were very different though, so it's probably not a fair comparison. But I'd definitely recommend all three areas to anyone visiting Christchurch.

[arts-dance]

Diminish and Ascend in Christchurch, New Zealand

Artist David McCracken designed his Diminish and Ascend to resemble a never-ending staircase that goes straight into the clouds. And, from certain angles, it takes on that appearance. He designed the piece for an annual art show known as Sculpture by the Sea in Bondi, Australia, but after the show closed, the aluminum staircase was moved to its new home in Kiosk Lake in Christchurch Botanic Gardens in New Zealand. Calling this piece an optical illusion almost seems like an understatement. 

[rentcampervan]

Top Places for you to Visit in Christchurch

Christchurch is one of the largest and traditional places in New Zealand. Despite everything, it has the strongest English influences too. Noted as one of the top must-visit places in the country, you should definitely take your campervan rental Christchurch to this place. Here are some of the places that you can visit while in the city. 1.    The Botanic Gardens: It is one of the finest attractions of the city, and has been there since 1863. You simply cannot miss the beauty of flora in this garden. There are several species of insects that might pique your interest while in the gardens. It is also a great place to have picnics and enjoy some family time. You can also enjoy plant conservatories in this region. 2.    Avon River:This river that runs 8.7 miles is indeed something you cannot miss while on a trip to Christchurch. It runs through the Pacific Ocean and should top your list. It runs through the botanic gardens and hagley park and is one of the finest attractions. You may find a place to park your motorhome hire Christchurch before returning to enjoying the river. 3.   Tranzalpine Train: If you want to enjoy New Zealand and the landscapes around, there is no better way than to hop onto a train. This train starts from Christchurch, and takes you all the way to Greymouth. You will be infinitely awed by the glory of the splendors around this region. It is considered to be an iconic journey and you may not want to give it a miss. 4.    Willowbank Wildlife Reserve: If you are a wildlife person and love to see animals in their setting, you should visit this place in Christchurch. Hidden in the beautiful trees and flora, you will find some of the rarest and about to be extinct animals sharing the warmth of the outdoors with you. this is the place where several bird breeding programs are conducted to save the different species from getting extinct. 5.    Canterbury Museum: If you want to learn more about the history and culture of New Zealand, you should visit the Canterbury museum. It is a single storyed building that was created in 1870. You will find a spot for your campervan rental Christchurch. There are several artefacts that date back in history. You will also find several historical moments properly arranged in the form of the weapon, human figures and others to help understand the moments better. 6.    Gondola: You should ride the Gondola when in Christchurch. It starts at the base of the Heathcote valley and goes to Mount Cavendish. It is a 15-minute ride and totally enjoyable. You will get exciting views into the beautiful landscapes and Alps. While the time is less, it is greatly enjoyable. 7.    The Antarctic Centre: it is a tourist attraction that you must visit while in the city. It is about 15 minutes away from the central part of the city. you will see a lot of paperwork and important notes on the Antarctic region in this place. If you want to solve some mysteries about this place, you should visit the centre. You might find a space for your motorhome hire Christchurch.

[christchurchcentralcity]

Hotels near Christchurch Central city

When it comes to finding a perfect place to stay during your visit to Christchurch, the proximity to the city's heart is essential. Christchurch Central City is the vibrant core of the city, offering a blend of culture, shopping, and scenic beauty. For travelers looking to explore this bustling area, staying at a hotel nearby can make all the difference. One such option is The Muse Hotel, located in the ideal spot to offer easy access to the best of Christchurch Central.

Why Choose Hotels Near Christchurch Central City?

1. Convenience and Accessibility Choosing a hotel near Christchurch Central City means you're just steps away from the best attractions and amenities. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a mix of both, the convenience of being close to key spots like the Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, and the bustling Victoria Street is unmatched.

2. Great Shopping and Dining Christchurch Central City is home to fantastic shopping districts, like The Crossing and Cashel Mall, where you can find everything from international brands to local artisan goods. Additionally, the area is dotted with restaurants, cafes, and bars that cater to every taste, from casual eats to fine dining.

3. Easy Transportation Staying near Christchurch Central City means you're well-connected to the city's public transport network, making it easy to travel around the city and beyond. Whether you're taking a bus, tram, or even a short taxi ride, getting to other attractions like the Port Hills or the Christchurch Airport is simple and stress-free.

The Muse Hotel: Your Perfect Christchurch Base

Located just a short walk from Christchurch Central City, The Muse Hotel offers a modern and stylish retreat in the heart of the city. With its contemporary design and exceptional service, The Muse is an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience the best of Christchurch while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a high-end hotel.

Key Features of The Muse Hotel:

Elegant Rooms: Each room is designed with your comfort in mind, featuring modern amenities, comfortable furnishings, and beautiful city views.

Central Location: You're within walking distance of top attractions, dining spots, and shopping precincts in Christchurch Central City.

Conference and Event Facilities: Ideal for business travelers, The Muse Hotel offers versatile meeting rooms and event spaces.

Boutique Atmosphere: With personalized service and a boutique atmosphere, The Muse Hotel ensures a unique and memorable stay.

Things to Do Around Christchurch Central City

While staying at The Muse Hotel, you’ll have easy access to a wide range of activities:

Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens: A stunning 21-hectare oasis with beautifully landscaped gardens and walking paths. Perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Explore the Arts Centre: A historic precinct featuring galleries, theaters, and cafes, showcasing the city's creative spirit.

Take a Tram Ride: The Christchurch Tramway offers a great way to see the city's key landmarks while learning about its history.

Shop at Riverside Market: A vibrant market with fresh produce, artisan goods, and food stalls, located just a short walk from the hotel.

Conclusion

If you're planning a trip to Christchurch, staying at a hotel near Christchurch Central City provides you with the best of both worlds—easy access to everything the city has to offer while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay. The Muse Hotel offers a chic, centrally located haven for those wanting to make the most of their visit. Whether you're here for a few days or a few weeks, it's the perfect base for exploring the heart of Christchurch.

Book your stay at The Muse Hotel today, and enjoy a memorable experience in Christchurch Central City.

[bluedesignwall]

Lunch break today was beautiful come and take a minute to sit and enjoy.

[nikfiendluvr666]

Cantebury memorial rose gardens, Christchurch, 2020.

[cllnsllvn]

Between Christmas and New Years, although I tried to do my best to look for a job (and applied to god knows how many), it was all for naught. Between all my online searching and job applying, I continued to spend time outside at the Botanic Gardens.

I also spent a fair amount of time by the river at The Terrace, where I got bit by a duck! The ducks there are so used to being fed by tourists that they will come straight up to you.

During this time, I also visited my first beach in Christchurch! One nice day, I took the bus over to Sumner Beach. It's so convenient to be able to just hop on the bus and be dropped off straight at the beach! When I arrived, there were signs on the beach not to swim, as the rip currents were too strong. I walked along the beach to Scarborough Beach, which is the next one to the south. Luckily, the swim are was open there, so I was able to have a nice swim and read the book that Mary gave me before I left - Look for Me There by Luke Russert.

[trendingnews19]

Ben Stokes suffered an injury scare on day four of the first Test against New Zealand after aborting a spell with the ball midway through his fifth over.England's Test captain opened the bowling with himself on Sunday in Christchurch, with his side trailing by four runs but needing just four second-innings wickets. Despite looking uninhibited for his first four overs from the Botanical Gardens End, he could not complete his fifth, stepping away after three deliveries. Overall, his 19.3 overs in the match were the most he has bowled in a Test since December 2022, when he sent down 27 overs against Pakistan at Rawalpindi.It appeared to be a precautionary move, and is understood to have been due to stiffness in his lower back. Stokes decided not to risk doing further damage, with Gus Atkinson brought in to complete the over, Stokes remained on the field through to lunch. New Zealand were bowled out for 254, with Brydon Carse taking 6 for 42 for 10 wickets in the match, leaving England a modest chase of 104 for victory at Hagley Oval.It is understood that the injury is unlikely to affect his availability for the second Test, which starts in Wellington on Friday.Last November, Stokes underwent an operation on his left knee to fix a long-term issue that had prevented him bowling at full tilt for the previous two years. He returned to bowling ahead of the schedule in March, against India at Dharamshala, dismissing Rohit Sharma with his very first delivery.He stepped up his workload with Durham in the County Championship after opting out of selection for the T20 World Cup. The decision allowed him to operate as a full allrounder in the West Indies series at the start of the summer, with 49 overs and five dismissals taking him past 200 wickets in his Test career.However, he tore his left hamstring while playing in the Hundred, which forced him to miss the three-match series with Sri Lanka, and subsequently the first Test in Pakistan. He did not look himself, letting his frustrations get the better of him and under-performing as a player and captain.He subsequently apologised to the squad in Queenstown for leaving them "treading on eggshells" because of his mood, a result of over-exerting himself physically and mentally over a prolonged period in a bitd to regain fitness.Speaking ahead of the first Test against New Zealand, Stokes said he was now "good as gold" and "completely over" the hamstring injury: "The amount of physical work that I put my body through over that nine, ten-week period definitely had its toll, probably over my whole body...I'm completely over the injury and ready to go again."But he also confirmed that he had skipped the IPL mega-auction in order to "look after" his body, and that he had taken the decision "to prolong my career as long as possible."

[cyb3rbon3z]

📍The Botanical Gardens, Christchurch, New Zealand

🎏

[clivemwilliams]

New Zealand 2022/23

22-24 December

We’ve now arrived at Lydia and Andrew’s place in Christchurch where we are spending Christmas. On Thursday Judith and I drove to Hamilton, about 1.5 hours away, where we had a great day in the excellent Botanical Gardens which, unusually, are completely free. Apart from the more traditional cottage garden, and the Egyptian gardens , there were some very unusual ones featuring a giant wheelbarrow and other garden implements and a garden on the tennis lawns!

On Friday Ellie had to go into the city so Judith and I walked into Mission Bay for a coffee. In the afternoon we flew down to Christchurch and grateful to Ellie’s friends Mark and Jackie, for a lift to the airport as roads were really busy. Lydia met us at the airport and drove us to their new home in Somerfield which is nice part of Christchurch. We met Alfie their 5 month old dachshund and then had pizzas for tea.

Saturday was action packed! First of all we drove up a long steep hill to a cafe called the Sign of the Kiwi with great views towards Governor’s bay and out to sea. We did a short walk around the summit of the hill before driving into town for a visit to a Saturday market with some great foods stalls - including one with Cornish pasties!

After lunch we went to Sumner beach where Lydia had arranged a tandem paragliding session for Judith with a friend of Andrew. Judith really enjoyed the 20 minute flight which landed back near the beach. Great photo opportunities! Ellie also had a go but lost her shoe on takeoff - typical!

In the evening we went for a Mexican meal followed by a Salvation Army Carol concert in Christchurch.

A very exciting day!