Canterbury-Christchurch is a city located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is the largest city in the South Island, and the third most-populous urban area in the country. It was named after Christ Church, Oxford University, as chosen by the city's founding dean, John Robert Godley.
Christchurch is known as the "Garden City" because of its many parks, gardens and tree-lined streets. The Avon River flows through the city center, adding to the beauty of the city.
The city is also the economic hub of the South Island, with strong manufacturing, agricultural and tourism sectors. The city's economy also incorporates the information technology, construction, health and education sectors.
Christchurch is famous for its stunning architecture, particularly the Christchurch Cathedral, which unfortunately suffered severe damage in the 2011 earthquake that shook the city. The city is in the process of rebuilding, with a focus on sustainable and resilient designs.
Education is a key focus in Christchurch, being home to several universities, including the University of Canterbury and the Lincoln University.
Finally, Christchurch offers some unique recreational options like punting on the Avon River, hot air ballooning, mountain biking, and wine tasting in nearby Waipara Valley. The nearby Banks Peninsula also offers great opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.