Strolling through these blissful 30 riverside hectares of arboreal and floral splendour is a consummate Christchurch experience. Gorgeous at any time of the year, the gardens are particularly impressive in spring when the rhododendrons, azaleas and daffodil woodland are in riotous bloom. There are thematic gardens to explore, lawns to sprawl on, and a playground adjacent to the Botanic Gardens Information Centre .
Guided walks ($10) depart at 1.30pm (mid-September to mid-May) from the Canterbury Museum , or you can chug around the gardens on the Caterpillar train .
