Where to eat, drink and stay in Christchurch

An iconic angle on Christchurch. Photo / ChristchurchNZ

Until February, Christchurch's Tūranga library is showing Talanoa i Measina - an exhibition of Pacific identity and belonging. Photos, archive materials and household items are being displayed in colourful display - a "living room" that has been staged within the library. Tūranga is full of spaces to explore - there are roof gardens, cafes, creative areas, quiet zones and study rooms. Far more than being just a library, this is a spot that is always worth a look, whether you're local or visiting. my.christchurchcitylibraries.com/turanga

Where to eat and drink in Christchurch

Gatherings has a focus on plants and fish, and bringing groups together. This small restaurant serves sharing meals so order one large main, then plenty of grazing plates such as potato doughnuts, crudites with kina cream, and fried zucchini flowers. gatherings.co.nz

Along the Terrace, beside the river, you'll find some of the city's best evening joints. There's always something going on at Fat Eddie's, from gigs to live-band karaoke. fateddiesbar.co.nz Further down is Original Sin, an Italian eatery that turns into a club after supper time. originalsin.co.nz Also along the terrace, Chiwahwah serves up family-friendly vibes, as well as Mexican food and tequila. chiwahwah.co.nz/menu

The Riverside Market is a large enclosed farmers market, full of boutique shops and eateries and small producers. The space is designed to allow small businesses to tout their wares, so you can browse delis, veges, bakeries and cheese, before doing some gift shopping, getting a haircut and then a tattoo, all under one roof. To eat, there's Malaysian, American, Indian and Argentinian to choose from, but don't miss the legendary souvlaki at Dimitri's. riverside.nz

Riverside Market, Christchurch. Photo / ChristchurchNZ

If that isn't enough choice for you, head to

Little High

on High St. There are eight eateries to choose from such as sushi, dumplings, pizza, Thai and South American, plus coffee, cocktails and boutique brews.

littlehigh.co.nz

If it's coffee you're after, Unknown Chapter serves one of the city's best, alongside brunch and bakery items. unknownchaptercoffee.co.nz

A little way out, on the banks of the Heathcote River, The Tannery is a boutique shopping and dining experience in a heritage 19th-century industrial precinct. The tannery closed in the 1950s, and much of the site was demolished in the 1970s, but now you'll find apartments, shops and restaurants in the beautiful buildings that remain. It's a nice spot for a wander, and you'll find live music and events at Blue Smoke after dark. thetannery.co.nz

An hour out of town, Black Estate makes some gorgeous biodynamic wines. Try a few at the stylist cellar door, or stop for lunch in the equally stylish restaurant. The menu evolves to match the season and the region. It's well worth the drive. blackestate.co.nz

Where to stay in Christchurch

Hotel Montreal is a boutique-sized hotel that's centrally located, right next to Hagley Park. There is an Argentinian grill, outdoor dining and croquet, and easy parking. Rooms are large (all are suites), and in-room iPads will help plan your visit to Christchurch. Larger groups should book the family suite, which has a kitchen, open-plan living spaces and plenty of storage space. hotelmontreal.co.nz