Christchurch, Ōtautahi is the largest city in the South Island. But, it has much more enchanting claims to fame than its size.
Officially New Zealand’s first-ever city, Christchurch has been named one of the friendliest cities on the planet, is one of the world’s Street Art Capitals, and is home to the largest inner-city park in the Southern Hemisphere! That’s quite the list of achievements!
Besides all these impressive things, Christchurch is a fantastic place to call home. The economy is prospering, the cost of living is far lower than in Wellington and Auckland, and the culture and sense of community make it hard to beat.
Keen to take a closer look at what it’s like to live, work, and play in Christchurch? Let’s zoom in on the details.
Work: Fantastic for Families
So, we’ve established that Christchurch has plenty for those who like to play, but there’s a lot more to life than just lunching at cafes and exploring the great outdoors.
Moving companies Christchurch are seeing the influx of new residents because the economy is flourishing. Recent research revealed that one in five New Zealanders is open to moving to Christchurch. That’s nearly double the number who would think about relocating to Auckland!
The housing market is accessible, rental homes are 28% cheaper than in Wellington, there are ample job opportunities, and the cost of living is a whopping 15% cheaper than Auckland.
Unemployment dropped by five percent in the last quarter of 2020. The primary industries in Christchurch are healthcare, hi-tech services, agriculture and engineering, transport, construction, horticulture and professional services. This diverse range of careers ensures Christchurch has an adaptable economy and provides many opportunities for job seekers.
Congestion and traffic pollution are minimal, public transport is a breeze, and there are excellent schools in the region, including the largest polytechnic in the South Island.
Live: Living the Dream
As New Zealand’s second-largest city, Christchurch is an excellent choice for those looking to be in the middle of the action without being overwhelmed by it.
Christchurch has a more affordable housing and rental market than Wellington and Auckland, and a lower cost of living, ensuring Christchurch movers have plenty of customers relocating to the city.
There are lots of affordable suburbs like Edgeware, Shirtley, Burwood, and Sockburn; mid-range suburbs like Riccarton, Northwood, Parklands, Port Hills and Burnside; and more affluent suburbs like Huntsbury and Fendalton.
Schooling is not a concern either With St Margaret’s College and Rangi Ruru Girls’ School making the list of the top 20 high schools in the country. There are plenty of excellent options to choose from in the area. Christchurch offers a wide range of Primary Schools catering for Years 1-6, Full Primary Schools catering for Years 1-8, Intermediate Schools catering for Years 7-8, and High Schools catering for Years 9-13. There are both co-education and single sex options. See a full list of all the Christchurch schools here.
For lovers of culture and the arts, there is always something new to check out. And for nature lovers, the Botanic Gardens offer an enchanting escape right on your doorstep,
Because Christchurch central is flat, getting around is easy on foot or by bicycle, but the public transport system is well organised if you need wheels.
Although things haven’t been easy for Christchurch following the 2011 earthquake, life is good. A survey conducted by the council in 2020 revealed that 83 percent of respondents reported a good or very good quality of life, and nearly 75 percent rated Christchurch as a great place to live.
Play: More Lifestyle for Less
Christchurch furniture removalists have never been busier as new residents pour into the city in search of a better lifestyle.
The integration between nature and urban life is seamless here, with the Botanic Gardens providing a colourful (and enormous) breath of fresh air between the vibrant city streets.
Just outside the city, there are plenty of outdoor adventures calling. Take a raft out on the Waimakariri River, explore the Port Hills, visit the nearby wineries, or head to the rugged coast.
There are also plenty of places to explore in Christchurch’s surrounding areas. Within a couple of hours drive, you can reach some of the area’s most sought after sights and activities. The quaint port town of Timaru is the second largest city in Canterbury and Ashburton is perfect if you love fly fishing! If stunning scenery is your thing then explore the volcanic and coastal Akaroa, resort town Hanmer Springs, frozen paradise Franz Josef, “Place of Light” Omarama, or New Zealand’s most remote town Haast.
Back in the city centre, Christchurch has proven to be much more than a place impacted by the earthquake. Its transformation to a funky, innovative, and intoxicating hub is reflected in the array of festival and arts activities, the huge range of shops, cafes and restaurants, and the rich cultural heritage. One in five Christchurch residents was born overseas, making the city a welcoming, diverse, and fascinating place.
Wrapping Up Christchurch
It’s difficult to define Christchurch by just one aspect. It’s arty, it’s funky, it’s historic, it’s an intriguing mix of heritage and innovative technology. But one thing we can definitely agree on is that Christchurch is going places.
It is the perfect city to live, work and play in. Whether you like the quiet calm of the suburbs, the hopping vibe of the central city, or the easy access to nature, it is a great place to call home.
If you would like to get on board and find a furniture moving company to help you start a new life in Christchurch, contact Crown Relocations today, call: 0508 227 696 or complete a quick quote form online.