Beautiful Christchurch before The Earthquake

Back to the year of 2008, I was in this beautiful city for my first time. Didn't know much about the facts of Christchurch but I easily fell in love with all things here. The sky, the river, the statues, landmarks, buildings, people, food...

Some said that Christchurch is the heaven for backpackers. One of the best reasons I love about Christchurch is it's so 'live'. I could hardly feel bored hanging out in the city. There is always some events held in the Cathedral Square, where is the hub for most people to meet up.

Just like Melbourne, the trams system embellishes the city of Christchurch and became a great way for tourists to explore the inner city area. As for me, I prefer to explore a new place by walking. Occasionally, I also jumped on a free shutter bus when I felt lazy and tired to walk more.

EARTHQUAKE UPDATE(25 MAY 2012) – The Christchurch tramway & Tramway Restaurant are currently closed! Visit the official website at http://www.tram.co.nz/ to get latest details.

Yes, this is Christchurch Casino. Well, it's fine to have a look inside if you are curious but non too wise to stay for long especially for backpackers. Gambling with our hard earn money is not the real game for backpackers. Christchurch Casino is among the few buildings still operates as usual after the earthquake happened.

 

I personally love architecture and heritage buildings in Christchurch are my favourite.

  

One thing I found Christchurch is so interesting is about the statues. I could see numbers of beautiful statues in the city centre within short distance. I fancy these could be some good landmarks for tourists or strangers to remember in case they got lost.

Isn't it good to enjoy a meal with friend by a riverside? Riverview Buffet Restaurant located at the upper floor of the Oxford On Avon at 794 Colombo St - this is the restaurant which offered great food, good environmet and affordable price. The buffet costed me less than $20 for a decent lunch with international cuisine.

At the Oxford On Avon, I tried a lunch of this a la carte for just $10, which is a pretty good deal, considering the ambience surrounded.

Riverview Buffet Restaurant/Oxford On Avon Restaurant & Bars 

Phone: 03 379 7148

Address: 794, Colombo Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch City.



Not far from the busy hub, you could find a riverside to sit back and relax, enjoy whatever mood you have.

A contemporary city art gallery, worth a visit. No admission fee. However, It's currently still closed until further notice.

Botanical garden during sunset. The sky was at its most beautiful scene.

I was attracted by all these huge and colourful signage boards, Coffee Queen, Striptease, LG Mart...

This is one of the backpacker hostels I had ever stayed. I would give a thumb up! The location is strategic, it's very near to library and shops. The owners are very nice couples. The condition of the interior was just nice, clean and comfortable.

Unfortunately, this hostel is still closed since the earthquake. Check its website at http://www.coachmanbackpackers.co.nz/ for latest information.

  Hohoho...the guy was caught and served a summons by a police. Riding an extraordinary small motorbike in NZ is forbidden.