The city enjoys an equable climate that nurtures lush parks and a renowned Botanical Garden. There are several golf courses with moderate green fees within and close to the city. The former town site of the university was gifted to the city and has become a thriving Arts Centre, housing notably the city's excellent permanent repertory theatre, a collection of handicraft ateliers and a weekly open-air craft market. Nearby is the Canterbury Museum and the Robert McDougall Art Gallery. Conference participants may also enjoy a tram ride round the city centre on the recently restored trams.
Many visitors enjoy English-style punting on the Avon River.
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is one of few places where our national icon, the endangered kiwi, can be seen close up. Thrill seekers may also wish to enjoy jet boating, ballooning or helicopter rides near Christchurch. Christchurch is the international gateway to the entire South Island, and for those who would like to travel further afield, there are frequent bus and plane connections to Mt. Cook, the glaciers of the Southern Alps, Queenstown, and the Fiordland World Heritage Park.