Looking to take in the entire city without dealing with the traffic; then visit the Christchurch Gondola. It doesn't take long to get a ticket and find yourself climbing the hill to the top. The ride was fairly smooth and occasionally you will yourself stopped on the way up or down but it is only temporary and a good opportunity to get in some panoramic shots. Once up the top of the station there is a gift shop you have to traverse going in and out while trying to avoid any trinkets or memorabilia. The range is diverse - I got through the jungle of items with New Zealand printed on it by holding to the philosophy of go away and if it still feels like a good idea in 5 minutes come back and spend big. The cafe and station with viewing balcony is very scenic. I nice place to sit back and look at the two sides in relative peace and warmth with a coffee. For a bit more of a slap on the face New Zealand feeling you can walk out of the station and across some uneven paths (not suited for those with mobility issues) of the mountain and take in the views. When I arrived it was a little overcast and the vista was a little restricted but I waited a little on the rocky seat and more and more of the city and beaches were revealed.