Lonely Planet names Christchurch ‘as top city for 2013’

Christchurch has been placed in sixth place on a list of cities to visit next year.

Many people are now starting to book flights to Christchurch again after the Kiwi city was hit by a devastating earthquake in February 2011 and the rejuvenation has been recognised by Lonely Planet.

The travel website has placed Christchurch in sixth spot on a list of the top ten cities to visit in 2013.

Lonely Planet was particularly impressed by the way Christchurch was “bouncing back with a new energy and inventiveness”.

It added: “New Zealand’s second largest city is rising from the rubble … with a breathtaking mix of spirit, determination and flair.”

Tim Hunter, Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism chief executive, said the honour was a fitting tribute to the city’s positive attitude and creative approach.

He commented that the award will add a further boost to tourism as many people do like to see how the city is responding to the disaster, but Christchurch’s main attractions will remain its location and scenery.

Written by Alex Cochrane