ChristchurchNZ's General Manager Destination and Attraction, Loren Heaphy.

Why should locals come in and explore the central city? Our CBD has returned to its bustling best in recent years, with numerous bars and restaurants as well as retail shops filling empty spaces throughout the centre. With shops opening all the time, and quality eateries popping up on every street, you’re bound to find something new you didn’t know about. The City Promenade has really opened up the Ōtakaro Avon River precinct and makes for a great stroll through the heart of the city. The two-kilometre walkway runs in front of The Terrace which has really become a gem of the CBD. The SALT District is the coolest spot in town right now, incorporating Little High, Lichfield Courtyard and the Dux Central area, as well as bars like Smash Palace and Not Without You. Sitting proud at its centre is C1 Espresso, a stalwart of the Christchurch cafe scene, where you can even get your face printed on your coffee! Nearby Lemon Tree Café is also a great spot for a drink among their vintage gems.

What are some of the hidden gems among the laneways as the city develops? The Guthrey Centre laneways off Cashel Mall have largely been completed, with shops like Sweet Soul Patisserie and The General Store offering a nice surprise for those that venture off the main thoroughfare. Of course, The Crossing is one of the CBD’s main laneway areas, stacked with eateries like Pike Poke and Cookai Japanese Restaurant, as well as shops like Bourbon Rose Florist and the centre’s flapship retailer H&M. Little High lanes inside the Mackenzie & Willis building offer an intimate retail setting leading into the popular Little High eatery. Dual Denim and Not Without You are some of the new players on the scene, while WORLD on Tuam Street brings high-end fashion to the central city.

What does the future of the inner city look like? It’s so exciting to have finished street corners and laneways filled with pedestrians exploring their new city centre. A focus on foot traffic and cycling, as well as plenty of car parking, will make ours an accessible city. Walking between city blocks through laneways will be the way to get around, with our trademark trees giving our CBD its lush garden feel.