Things to See in Christchurch

The International Antarctic Centre is part of a huge complex built for the administration of the NZ, US and Italian Antarctic programmes. Learn all about the icy continent via historical, geological and zoological exhibits, including videos of life on Scott Base, an aquarium of creatures gathered under the ice in McMurdo Sound, and an 'Antarctic Storm' chamber where you get a first-hand taste of -18°C wind chill.

Cathedral Square is at Christchurch's heart and the best place to start exploring the city. The Cathedral, built in Gothic Revival style and symbolising the Church of England bedrock of this city, dominates Cathedral square in Christchurch's heart. You can climb the cathedral spire for a small fee and get a great view of the city.

In the centre of the square is the 18m-high Metal Chalice sculpture, created by Neil Dawson to acknowledge the new millennium.

Set in an eye-catching metal-and-glass collage built in 2003, the city's Christchurch Art Gallery has an engrossing permanent collection divided into historical, 20th-century and contemporary galleries, plus temporary exhibitions featuring NZ artists. Guided tours are held at 11:00. Stop in at the spacious café-wine bar on-site, and browse the high-quality gift shop.