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Moving to Christchurch? Here's what you need to know...

Sep 23, 2020
Christchurch, or Ōtautahi is known throughout New Zealand as the 'The garden city".  It is one of the 3 largest cities in the country and has taken pride of place as the de facto capital city of the South Island.  More and more people are choosing to relocate to Christchurch either from other parts of New Zealand or from other countries across the world.  

It also happens to be home to Belfast Road Self Storage! If you're thinking of moving here or even just visiting our beautiful city for a holiday then here is our handy guide to all things Christchurch!

First a little bit of history...


It would be impossible to talk about Christchurch without bringing up the 2011 earthquake.  Set in an area know as the "pacific ring of fire" Christchurch is no stranger to seismic activity and in February 2011 the Canterbury region was struck by magnitude 6.3 earthquake that destroyed much of the central urban areas of Christchurch.   


As devastating as it was, the new city with its reinforced buildings, beautiful public art spaces and a diverse new array of alternatives to typical infrastructure solutions has risen from the rubble as a shining example of triumph over adversity!




Check out the full history leading up to and after the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes at nzhistory.govt.nz

it's well worth a read!


Things to do...

Community spirit and culture...


Overall the city has a distinctly English feel, but there is still a significant Maori influence on the cultural life of the city. As well as its green areas, parks and open spaces that earned its name 'the garden city', residents of Christchurch enjoy its many art galleries and museums, including the world famous Christchurch Art Gallery.


Christchurch is also a key part of the New Zealand music scene, and is home to many bands, artists, and performers that fit in perfectly with the thriving cafe and bar and restaurant scene across the city. 


Hagley Park is the 3rd biggest city park in the world behind Central Park in New York and Hyde Park, London.

In the City....


Christchurch is completely flat, which makes getting around on bike, scooter or on foot nice and easy.   And during the rebuild the bike and foot paths have been incorporated seamlessly. Hagley Park is the city’s pride and joy at 160 hectares, and there are more than 700 other parks throughout the city, covering 3000 hectares. 


In more recent years, Christchurch’s more traditional vibe has changed – the city you will now find is multi-cultural, youthful and diverse.  Through out the year the calendar is bursting with cultural events from food and wine festivals, street food markets, Chinese lantern displays and music festivals.  It truely is home to bustling atmosphere and cultural scene. 


It also offers that priceless blend of city living and laidback beach life that the world and its dog are dreaming of!



On the open road....

If you're and outdoor enthusiast then Christchurch should be at the top of your list!  Christchurch city is bordered by the pacific ocean, the banks peninsula and the Canterbury plains with the Southern Alps less than 100km.


Within easy reach are are ski fields such as Mount Hutt and Porters.  Or take a road trip down to breathtaking hotspots hotspots like Milford Sound, Wanaka and Queenstown.  Imagine being able to start your day off surfing and be skiing after lunch!  This makes Christchurch the ideal spot to base yourself to enjoy a mix of city living and outdoor pursuits.


Canterbury was listed on National Geographic Travel’s Best Trips List 2019 which is likely down to its access to adrenaline sports, potential for wildlife encounters and its stunning scenery.

Buying property and the best areas to live in...

If you are already in New Zealand, and looking to relocate.  Maybe you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Auckland or you want to move from small town to city living, then Christchurch could be the city that ticks all the boxes.

More people in recent years are living outside the city centre either permanently or, in the case of families affected by the 2011 quake, until their property is repaired.  But there are still options for those looking to buy or rent. 

If family friendly is what you're. looking fro then the beachside suburb of Sumner is a great choice


Sumner is less than a 30min drive from the city but for those in search of a tranquil escape from city life but still close enough to commute.  Although many of the local shops and eateries were damaged by the earthquake, it has successfully rebuilt better than before but remains a charming enclave while nearby Ferrymead caters for retail and entertainment needs.


Fun Fact: Overall consumer prices including rent are 16.87% lower in Christchurch than in Melbourne and 0.74% higher than in Rome.
Hip & Trendy


Riccarton and Ilam are on the western side of Hagley Park have become the popular choice in recent years. If you are looking for a new home that is still close to the CBD but also shopping, food and entertainment on your doorstep this is the place to be.


Up & Coming Lyttleton is an attractive port village with so much to offer.


This lively little town has something for everyone from quirky cafes, eclectic shops, the must visit Saturday farmers market to historical gems at every turn. Lyttelton and the surrounding bays are definitely worth taking the time to explore.

It is amongst the first of the out-of-town areas to rebuilt. with new life breathed into it, it promises to soon be more sought-after than ever before.

Whether you're moving, downsizing or just need a place to put some boxes, we look at how to find a storage facility that's right for you. We offer great value, secure storage units in Christchurch with flexible agreements which can dove-tail with your personal requirements.  Contact us today to discuss how we can help you with your storage needs, 
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