Rebecca Gray,

Editor (Oceania)

 

CHRISTCHURCH – Despite the destruction caused to the city by a series of Earthquakes less than two years ago, New Zealand’s Christchurch has been labeled ‘Number 6’ in Lonely Planet’s ‘Top Cities for 2013’. Less than two years ago, in February 2011, an Earthquake with a magnitude of 6.3 struck Christchurch leaving the city with severe damage to infrastructure and the loss of 185 lives. Tourism in the Canterbury region of the South Island took a great impact as a result with an estimated loss of $350 million, until recently, when Lonely Planet named Christchurch in its must-see cities for 2013.

Lonely Planet’s Asia-Pacific director Chris Zeihe stated that the rebuilding that has been taking place in Christchurch has revived the city’s buzz, making Christchurch an exciting and amazing for people to go and witness. The Lonely Planet dubbed Christchurch a city that “is bouncing back with a new energy and inventiveness… New Zealand’s second largest city is rising from the rubble with a breathtaking mix of spirit, determination and flair”. The Tourism chief executive for Christchurch and Canterbury Tim Hunter stated it was for the high spirits and positive attitude that has helped rebuild the city and therefore deserved the praise given by Lonely Planet.

It is hoped by the Mayor Bob Parker that tourism in the area will fluctuate as a result of the plug. The Lonely Planet is a well-known, influential travel book and therefore should attract people to Christchurch and see what the city has to offer. The mention also means a great deal for the Asia-Pacific region, with Australia’s Hobart also reaching the top 10. The growing influence in the area will not only mean a lot for tourism, but also makes smaller ‘less-dominant’ cities such as Hobart and Christchurch stand out and be recognized for their beauty.

Christchurch is a city coming alive with great atmosphere, the historical buildings are still recognized but a new feeling of excitement and wonder has been evoked in the city, making it an attractive place to visit.