🇳🇿 Christchurch - More Than Just a Stopover

Often seen as just a transit hub for New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch surprised me this time with its charm during a relaxed city walk + city drive 🚶‍♂️🚗. Here’s why you should stay longer: ⭐ Riverside Market Outdoor seating with Avon River views (heated in winter ❄️). Corner seafood stall sells Bluff oysters (~$20/dozen)—cheapest in town but average freshness. Bessie is better (you get what you pay for!). Dimitris (popular Greek spot): Huge portions, decent but not mind-blowing. ⭐ Arts Centre 10-min walk from Riverside along Worcester Blvd (🍁 autumn foliage en route—P9!). Historic site still under post-earthquake restoration, but open for visits. Must-see: 3D "floating sky house" installation (super photogenic 📸). Quirky lifestyle shops (bought a cute retro pocketknife 🔪). Small exhibitions (e.g., quake recovery history)—1-hour visit max. Food trucks at the back—looked tempting! Who’s tried them? ⭐ Botanic Garden Peak autumn colors 🍂, with the Avon River winding through. Ducks/geese chilling (zero fear of humans 🦆). <1-hour loop walk—crunchy leaves, pure peace & love vibe. ⭐ Cardboard Cathedral Fun fact: Why "Cathedral" if it’s temporary? Church = general place of worship; Cathedral = bishop’s seat (usually grand architecture). After the 2011 quake destroyed ChristChurch Cathedral, this eco-friendly transitional space (designed by Shigeru Ban) was built with cardboard tubes! Inside: Stained glass, wooden pews, quake memorial. Quick visit (best by car—slightly out of town). 💭 Final thoughts: Christchurch shines in autumn sunlight—slow down, explore, and savor it. ☀️ #Christchurch #SouthIslandNZ #NZTravel #HiddenGems #AutumnVibes