I will be taking a Contiki trip to New Zealand this summer and am wondering what places to see/things to do during my free time for the first few days in Christchurch. Thanks!

Well - there is one very special thing you can do and that is take the bus to Lyttelton and then walk the Bridle Path from there. This will take you back to where you can take a bus back into the city.

The Bridle Path is the route that was taken by the first settlers.

Now, if you choose to do it, get your brain into gear and imagine how it must have been for them!

The views are stupendous.

Museums? Canterbury Museum and the Art Museum are both worthwhile. I especially like the upstairs exhibit at the Canterbury on the Antarctic explorers.

Botanic Gardens, however if our summer it's their winter so not sure what will be bloooming. Another smaller garden is Mona Vale, best when the azaelas and rhodies are in bloom.

Art Center has galleries and a weekend market.

You can take a day trip or overnight to Akaroa.

See the Wizard in the square.
Art Gallery
Art Centre for free tour
Botanic Gardens
Tramway loop

The Southern Encounter Aquarium, just off Cathedral Square.

The International Antarctic Centre, near the airport. Really great exhibits about Antarctica history and natural history.

The Orana Wildlife Reserve, a great zoo, also near the airport.

Queen Elizabeth II Park, particularly the giant pool complex with waterslides.

Caddyshack City - the best indoor miniature golf couse I've ever seen.