You always hope that when a city makes the news on an international scale that it is in the form of celebration or acknowledgement for the community or a resident. Unfortunately, this was not the case for Christchurch, New Zealand, when, in February of 2011, the city received national attention because of an earthquake striking near their city center. 185 lives were lost and over 10,000 buildings were left unsalvageable. This devastating natural disaster required the city and country to rally together in order to rebuild for the 580,000 residents of the greater Christchurch region. Today, the energy around the people who stuck it out continues to rise and the city continues to adjust and progress with life after such a devastating event.

After a pickup in Akaroa, you will start your journey to Christchurch. Along the way, you will witness some of the best views in all of New Zealand. We aren't kidding! Lookouts over the Akaroa and Lyttelton Harbors will end up being some of your favorite photos from the day. Especially if you are lucky enough to capture sheep in the foreground. You can try to "baaaahhhh" at them to set up the perfect shot, but we can't make any promises that they will cooperate.

Once in Christchurch, you'll explore the commercial city center and residential neighborhoods. The day is yours and the itinerary is flexible, so feel free to tell your guide about your interests.