Beaches… mountains… tree-lined streets… What is not to love about Christchurch, New Zealand’s third biggest city?
The story of Christchurch Ōtautahi (in Māori translates to “the place of Tautahi”) over the last decade is one of rebirth, strength amid adversity, and literally rising from the ashes. Bouncing back from several devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, the largest city in the South Island is dynamic and exciting!
The earthquakes gave the city a chance to rebuild in a way that only Christchurch could. And it has produced some fantastic results! With a flourishing job market, a quirky food and coffee culture, and an unbeatable outdoor lifestyle, it is the place to be.
Thinking of moving to Christchurch? Here are our top five reasons that you should choose this city as your new home…
1. You Will Save Money!
Christchurch is one of our ‘big three’ cities here in NZ. With over 404,000 residents, it is the third most populated city after Auckland and Wellington. But compared to those two North Island heavy-hitters, the cost of living in Canterbury is considerably cheaper.
There is plenty of talk in the media about the sky rocketing house prices in Auckland and how the other main centres aren’t too far behind. Often, buying a home in these places is a stretch, even unmanageable for some. Not so down South!
You still get all the buzz of a modern city, international airport, and access to amenities, but at a more reasonable price. Plus, you will find that your rates bill is considerably cheaper than those in the North Island.
2. A Booming Job Market
If you work in manufacturing, IT, or construction, Christchurch is calling your name.
It is a city that continues to rebuild and reshape itself following the destruction of the earthquakes, so there are jobs aplenty. It’s also the second largest manufacturing centre in the country and the third largest region for IT businesses.
Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s cities leading the way in employment growth. With plenty of exciting developments evolving all the time, you just might find your dream job here.
3. There Is Always Something New To See
There is something pretty special about living in a city that transforms and grows in front of your very eyes! Because construction is ongoing, walking the streets is like exploring a new city every month. You will discover temporary art popups, stunning murals, quirky markets, and unique holes-in-the-wall.
Gap Filler is an excellent example of innovative thinking. This initiative literally sees empty areas of the city taken over by book exchange corners, arcades, art, and even Dance-O-Mats! And then there is the Re:Start Container Mall built as a temporary solution in 2011 and has since grown to an iconic, world famous site, even making the Lonely Planet list of the top things to visit in NZ!
4. Exceptional Outdoor Living
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you should put Christchurch at the top of your list. Whether you are an adventure sports maniac or enjoy spending your weekends with a thermos of tea and a book in a gorgeous park, you will be spoiled for choice in the Garden City.
There are more than 700 parks throughout the city, covering 3000 hectares. And that doesn’t even include the spectacular 30-hectare Botanic Gardens.
Getting out into nature has never been easier in Canterbury. You are never more than an hour or two away from the ocean, rivers, lakes, or mountains. Sporty types can surf at Taylor’s Mistake in the morning and head to Sumner for snowboarding the same afternoon. Or, you can head to the neighbouring Port Hills for mountain biking, hiking, or rock climbing. In winter, you can ski or snowboard to your heart’s content at the nearby ski fields.
5. Fun, Delicious Coffee And Food
Word on the street is that it’s impossible to buy a lousy cup of coffee in Christchurch. Many of the cafes have cute themes and you will find it hard to pick just one favourite spot.
While any city can offer great food, the local artsy community give it a special twist. You will find food trucks aplenty, as well as pop up cafes in shipping crates and out of the way corners. The range of food available is truly international – not to mention mouth watering. Feel like trying something different every night of the week? Not a problem in creative Christchurch.
If you are moving within New Zealand, then Christchurch might just be the city that ticks everything on your checklist.
Moving house is hard enough when you are just shifting suburbs. But if you are moving cities or islands then you’re going to need some relocation help. Get in touch with us here at Crown for a free moving quote for your house relocation, storage, and insurance. Call our friendly team today on: 0508 227 696 or complete the quick quote form.
