People are friendly and welcoming. The city attracts a large number of tourists from many countries around the globe. It is an important tourist centre and convention venue with fine hotels, shops, restaurants and business facilities.

The environment is clean and green. With its broad tree-lined avenues, sweeping parks and colourful flower-filled Botanic Gardens and private gardens, Christchurch is truly a Garden City, not only of New Zealand but also of the world.

Christchurch is widely recognised as the most English of New Zealand cities, as vividly conveyed by the Gothic architecture of the Anglican Cathedral and Arts Centre, and the Avon River with its frequently passing punts and sweeping willow trees.

However, belying all these is the cosmopolitan population, represented by more than 50 ethnic groups with a diverse range of cultures and cuisines. Indeed, the earliest permanent Chinese settlement in Christchurch can be traced back to 1908.

Christchurch is a great place to bring up a family. It has excellent public and private schools, tertiary institutions, sporting and recreation facilities. Its two well-established universities are internationally renowned and with the polytechnic, College of Education and other educational institutions, make the city the leading centre for international students.

It is true to say that the excitement of the inner city, the more relaxed suburban lifestyle, multi-cultural population and green environment all contribute to why I love Christchurch, a unique city of the world.