Fun for Free in Christchurch

It can be hard to find entertainment when you're in a new town on a limited budget. Luckily there's a lot you can do in Christchurch without spending a cent.

At the heart of Christchurch is Cathedral Square. Not only is this a great place for people-watching, you can also explore Christchurch Cathedral and even play a game of giant chess with the locals.

If you like art, the Christchurch Art Gallery is an easy walk from Cathedral Square. Entry to the main gallery is free, and many of the exhibitions are free too.

Also on Worcester Boulevard is the Christchurch Arts Centre, where you can soak up the old world atmosphere of Gothic Revival architecture while exploring the original site of Canterbury University. This award-winning tourism attraction is a great place to explore, especially during the regular weekend market.

It's worth paying a visit to the modern Canterbury University site in Ilam, reknowned for its lively student population and beautiful park surrounds. Close to the university is the old Ilam homestead; its well-established rhododendron and azaelea gardens are open to the public at no charge.

If you enjoy visiting gardens and heritage architecture, charming Mona Vale and historic Riccarton Bush are both close to Hagley Park. And don't miss the Christchurch Botanical Gardens near the centre of the city - as well as extensive plantings, there's a visitors' information centre and a playground for kids of all ages.

Spice up your evenings in Christchurch by enjoying live music close to the city centre. Local bands often perform without a cover charge at the Dux De Lux Restaurant Bar and Brewery, which is part of the Christchurch Arts Centre complex.

And if you're here during January you can enjoy the World Buskers Festival, when some of the world's best street theatre comes to town.

So even if you're keeping a close eye on your wallet, there's no reason miss out on fun and entertainment when you visit Christchurch.