Science Alive, Christchurch

Advantages: Wonderful view from spire, interesting decor, great central location near other sites, free
Disadvantages: Quite busy

...the outside the cathedral seems huge, and dwarfs the large square, with its pointed spire, magnificent rose window, and lovely stone in varying shades of grey. Even though it is not even 150 years old, it is built in the gothic style, which gives it a formidable, but attractive presence. Unlike most English cathedrals, it is free to enter Christchurch cathedral, and there is only a small fee to climb the tower. I remember it being about 350-steps, so it is not too challenging, and even though the stairwell is snug to pass people climbing in the opposite direction it isn't too clostrophobic. It's all worth it anyway for the magnificent 360 degree view from the top, not only of the busy square, but over the roof tops to the Botanical Gardens, and the city suburbs. The main body of the cathedral has a welcoming, alive atmosphere... Read review

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Advantages: So many, such a beautiful place
Disadvantages: None id go again.

...Christchurch new zealand. Well what can i say? One of THE most beautiful places i have ever visited in the world. I visited christchurch last christmas (2007-2008) and had one of the most memorable times of my life. When we arrived in christchurch airport the security was tight, showing the care that new zealand has for their country. We had our walking boots washed down and our big rucksacks emptied to make sure everything in them was ok! Which it was thankfully. And we walked through the doors to be greeted by beautiful sunshine and us thinking omgosh, after just coming for 9 degree tempratures in the uk, to 27 degrees in christchurch. We stayed in a guide house on our first night (as we are guides) and it was called crarcroft house and it was beautiful. On our way travelling through christchurch we commented how fresh and clean... Read review

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Advantages: Brilliant views.
Disadvantages: Make sure weather is nice before you go. Expensive.

...We heard that New Zealand was famous for having more sheep than people and after being in Christchurch for a couple of days, quite amazed that we hadn't seen any sheep, that was until we had a ride up the gondola..... The gondola is a 945 mitre ride from the bottom of the port hills (very steep hill that the first settlers walked over on their arrival - i.e. had to get from the port to the flats). 500 meters above sea level. Take a trip to the crater rim of Christchurch famous extinct volcano. At the top you have a spectacular view of Christchurch, Lyttleton and depending on the clouds... Diamond Harbour/Governers Bay, etc. It's quite expensive to go up - $22 for an adult and $10 for school age kids (family pass - 2 adults and 3 kids $55). I do know at the centre of town they have an offer for a tram ride and gondola (tram... Read review

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