Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Christchurch

Stroll through South Island's colorful plant life at Christchurch Botanic Gardens, sheltering both native and exotic species. Sprawled over 21 hectares (52 acres) near the loop of the Avon River, this garden serves as one of Christchurch's major year-round tourist attractions. Highlights include a rose garden with 250 different varieties, a large Victorian glasshouse containing an impressive collection of tropical species, and a rock garden sheltering plants that flower throughout the year. In addition to a small cafe and gift shop, the visitor center features an interactive exhibit about the history of the area's gardening. Take a guided tour, or hop on one of the garden's electric shuttles. Make Christchurch Botanic Gardens part of your personalized Christchurch itinerary using our Christchurch trip planner.