Christchurch represents a city recovering from a natural disaster that in February of 2011 claimed 185 lives and left 10,000 buildings unsalvageable. This devastating natural disaster rallied the city and country together in order to rebuild for the 580,000 residents of the greater Christchurch region. On this small group tour, you will explore Christchurch's actions of recovery that have left the residents energized and assisted them in getting back to living life as normal New Zealander.

With a pickup at the pier, you will venture out of Akaroa and up into the hills above the city. Your first stop will be at Robinson's Bay Lookout for incredible views of the harbor you just came into. If everyone has told you that New Zealand has the best views in the world, then this is a spot that proves it. Another stop, at the Summit Road Lookout, hits that point home one more time!

While arriving into Christchurch, the "Garden City" of New Zealand, you will see the 46 billion dollar rebuild process in full force. Everywhere you turn there are signs of Christchurch's past intertwined with its plans for the future. You will pass through old neighborhoods that are now just patches of grass and into new neighborhoods that have sprung up in relocation efforts from areas that were once deemed "unlivable." Brand new buildings, crumbled buildings, and buildings currently being reinforced can be seen scattered throughout the city center.

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens is one of the local's favorites within the city. A stroll through the Botanic Gardens will make you feel as if you are no longer in the city and realize why it's the best botanic display in the entire country. Over 100 different varieties of roses are on display and that is only a fraction of what you'll see. Soak in the smells!

A drive back to the port will provide even more views on the day best spent from Akaroa.