The Arts Centre of Christchurch is a vibrant and exciting venue for a huge range of New Zealand made art and crafts, shopping, education and entertainment. There truly is something for everyone, with highlights including over 40 specialty shops, fine art galleries, world-class theatre, art house cinemas, bars, restaurants and cafes, a bustling weekend Art, Craft and Produce Market, and an array of festivals and special events throughout the year. Once the site of the University of Canterbury, these distinctive Gothic Revival buildings are today a maze of fun, wonder and delight, and form part of our award-winning tourism attraction. Arts Centre Information is open daily 9.30am - 5pm, 7 days (except Christmas Day).
Less than 5 minutes walk from Dorset House is Victoria Street. Many cafes and bars line either side of the street as well as a selection of specialty shops. If you are feeling lucky, follow Victoria Street towards the city centre and visit the Christchurch Casino on the way!!
Within the city itself, there are many shops, bars and cafes. Most of the cities bars and shops are within a 3-4 block radius of the central square and the magnificent Christchurch Cathedral! On Fridays a market is run in the square itself – a great time to sample local fare and may be find a bargain.
Located next to the Botanic Gardens and Arts Centre, the Christchurch Museum offers a chance to view the history of Christchurch and New Zealand in a spacious historic building. Glimpse how the early European Canterbury settlers lived and stroll through the Victorian Christchurch Street in an interactive display. The museum is open every day but Christmas Day.
Located beside the Avon River and Hagley Park, a 15-minute walk away from Dorset House, the gardens were established in 1863 and are well known for their magnificent collection of specimen trees. Covering 30 hectares and containing a world-class blend of over 10,000 exotic and indigenous plants, the gardens are open daily.
The spectacular new Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu is located in the heart of the city’s unique Cultural Precinct, and features a dramatic 90-metre glass and metal façade. The Gallery houses one of the foremost public art collections in New Zealand, including superb Canterbury paintings, prints, drawings, sculpture, photography and applied arts. The Christchurch Art Gallery is open every day but Christmas Day.
The Cultural Precinct of Christchurch is an area centrally located in the city. Attractions in the area include: the Museum, Arts Centre, Botanic Gardens, the Tram, Centre of Contemporary Art, and the Library. Walking around the precinct is a wonderful way to get a feel for why Christchurch has been described as one of ‘the most English cities outside of England’!
Christchurch’s historic trams, which disappeared in 1954, have been lovingly refurbished to their original pristine condition and are “moving antiques”. The 2.5km track links central city shops and attractions, including The Arts Centre, Christchurch Art Gallery, Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Cathedral Square.
Tram drivers provide a fascinating commentary on the 25-minute trip. Guests are encouraged to hop on and off the trams so they can explore the sights up close. Tickets are valid for two days allowing plenty of time to see and do everything.
Hagley Park has been at the heart of Christchurch since the 1850s and is today by far our most significant central city park. It is renowned for it's extensive acreage (161 hectares), its wide-open spaces and mature woodlands. Hagley Park is also a major sporting and cultural focal point. It offers a diverse range of entertainment and recreational opportunites within close proximity to the city centre. All this almost on the door step of Dorset House!
Frank and Gwen live just over the fence, and are a wonderful, friendly, older couple. Dorset House is situated in a residential zone and respecting our neighbours’ privacy and lifestyle is of most importance, we value their friendship. You may see Frank drop off the mail just before 10 in the mornings, which he is kind enough to do for us.
Christchurch Cathedral in the Square is the heart and soul of the city. This fine example of English Victorian Gothic church architecture is the most visited church in the country. You will find a warm welcome awaits you they within its doors. Join in one of 14 weekly services, from traditional Anglican worship to jazz services. Experience the sensational music of the Cathedral boy choristers and Men’s Choir. Hours: every day: Oct – Mar, 8.30am – 7pm; Apr – Sep, 9am – 5pm
For more than 120 years the Centre of Contemporary Art has acted as one of New Zealand’s most significant arts institutions. The gallery represents established and emerging artists, encompassing painting, printmaking, installation, design, craft and photography, with a commitment to quality and excellence. With exhibitions changing every three weeks, more than 60 exhibitions are held every year. Additional gallery space, the Selling Gallery, features a rotating exhibition of original art. Established and historical works are also featured including Doris Lusk, Olivia Spencer-Bower and Ralph Hotere. Hours: Tues – Fri, 10am - 5pm; Sat and Sun 12pm - 4pm
