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newzealand.com
Christchurch is bordered by hills and the Pacific Ocean, and is situated on the edge of the Canterbury plains stretching to the Southern Alps.
It is centred in an area of great geographical contrast. Much of the city’s area has been set aside for parks, natural reserves and recreation grounds. The city centre is compact with the central feature being the Avon River. From art galleries to theatres, weekend markets to museums, there is a taste of Christchurch’s unique culture at every turn.
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Lyttelton, the gateway to Christchurch. Cashin Quay is the main cruise berth, although smaller ships can also berth at No 2 East Wharf (Inner Harbour).
Your cruise ship will berth onto a working port, with minimal passenger facilities. There will be an information kiosk at the end of the gangway with maps and local visitor information.
As Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s largest cities, you will be handy to shopping, dining and all sorts of urban comforts. If you need some local assistance, call the Christchurch i-SITE Visitor Centre on +64 3 379 9629 or visit www.christchurchnz.com for more information.
Note that Lyttelton is 12.9 km (8 miles) to Christchurch and hence there are two shuttle services; one takes you to Lyttelton township and the other takes you to Christchurch city. Please note that Lyttelton Port of Christchurch prohibits visitors from walking off the port for safety and security reasons, and has a complimentary shuttle that takes you to London Street, outside Lyttelton's Information Centre.
Check with your cruise ship for shuttle services from the pier into Christchurch city.
Lyttelton is a small township and is easily explored by foot. Once in Christchurch city, it is also easily explored on foot due to its compact and flat nature.
It is around 25 minutes of drive time from Lyttelton to Christchurch city. Taxis are available in the maritime precinct. In Christchurch, phone Corporate Cabs on (03) 379 5888 or visit www.corporatecabs.co.nz.
Not all taxis accept credit cards - please ask your driver before boarding.
We recommend booking rental cars in advance. Visit the Transport section for further details of rental car companies in the Christchurch region.
