Entertainment Overview

Christchurch's after-dark action has picked up over the years, particularly as more bars open up along Lichfield Street and Manchester Street, two drags popular with students and young pros.

For concentrated action, your best bet is to head to the bars and cafés along the area known as the Strip. This is a small section of Oxford Terrace, one of the streets that follows the curves of the Avon River, between Cashel Street and Worester Boulevard. The end of the Strip near the Bridge of Remembrance has the younger, rowdier crowds. People often spill out onto the footpath but be sure to do all your drinking indoors, as there's a ban on drinking in public places in certain parts of the city.

Christchurch has a buzzing arts scene, with choirs, orchestras, and theater, not to mention dozens of art galleries.

The Christchurch Press newspaper is a reliable source on the city's arts and entertainment scenes. The Wednesday edition's special arts section lists events and venues, while Thursday's edition has a gig guide on shows and more. You could also check out the Web sites www.bethere.org.nz for arts and entertainment listings and www.jagg.co.nz for info on live music.