I was in Christchuch last year and thought it a nice little city. Not particularly beautiful (besides the parks), but pleasant with a tad feeling of a frontier city. I've posted some of these before.
Here are some pre-earthquake pics...
River Avon...
Christchurch buildings..
In or near the Christchurch Arts Centre...
(I guess/hope the dude staring at her is her teacher.)
River Avon, Hagley Park ...
Botanic Gardens ...