Those in the know already know about the cool new attractions and hidden gems of Christchurch’s reborn city centre. Our downtown has rebounded from the setbacks of the quakes and Covid-19, emerging as a modern centre of art, architecture, vibrant places and serene spaces.

The centre is now abuzz with a hot combo of funky markets, bodacious boutiques, crafty brewers, moody cocktail bars, outrageous street art, acres of green space, state-of-the-art conference digs and streetscapes made for meandering. Then there are the events. Music, theatre, dance, celebrations, exhibitions. Something for everyone in a host
of new venues.

For the cognoscenti, then, it may come as a surprise to find out that while you know all this, some do not. Some have yet to follow your lead and return to their favourite streets, lanes and boulevards to discover all that is on offer.

The Central City Business Association has joined the charge to change that. It has launched the Centre of It All website, a treasure trove of diverse shops, hip hospo venues, office spaces of every variety and the coolest of experiences, most of which you won’t find in malls or suburban shopping centres.

The businesses of the central city would love your help in spreading the word, so here is your chance to become an influencer. Next time you are heading into town for a shopping spree, city adventure or a night out clubbing, take two friends. Tell them to do the same with two of their friends. Get the gram-worthiest pics on your feed and let the good times snowball.

You may even surprise yourself – the pace at which the central city is blossoming means there is always something new to discover.

To help you plan your inner-city itinerary, the people behind the Centre of It All website have put together a series of experiences for you to consider. Soul Station takes you around the city’s musical treasures. Tales & Wonder makes for a lazy Sunday of exploring. Perfect Love Triangle invites you for dinner, drinks and dessert at three of the stars of New Regent Street. Captive Hunger combines the drama of an escape room with the reward of some ka pai kai once you find the key. There’s a host more, and more to come as well.

Parking woes are a thing of the past, with the central city now served by over 10,000 car parks. The website has a handy guide to help you find your ideal spot.

Christchurch’s central city is now home to about 1000 businesses. All the CCBA wants is for people to discover them and get back to having fun in the Centre of It All.

centreofitall.co.nz