The Observatory Hotel Christchurch and the Botanical Gardens

I had a quick work trip to Christchurch and decided it would be a good opportunity to tack a short holiday to it.

On a friend's recommendation I booked a night at the Observatory Hotel. ( https://observatoryhotel.co.nz/ )This is located within the Old Arts Centre so has lots of atmosphere. The Arts Centre comprises buildings dating from the 19th century, formerly used by Canterbury College (now the University of Canterbury), and Christchurch Boys’ and Christchurch Girls’ High Schools. There are 23 buildings on site, of which 22 are listed by Heritage New Zealand with 21 categorised as Historic Place Category One and in a very English style and have been beautifully renovated after the devastating earthquakes over a decade ago.

Our room was very pretty in pale pink and sage tones with a stylish marble bathroom

The view from our room looks into the central area of the arts centre

There is a common lounge area with self serve coffee and teas and with  a lot of books on display with intriguing subjects to peruse. 

The hotel is located across the road from the Botanical Gardens Ave before we were picked up in the morning we had time to explore.

Begun in 1862, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens are, like historical Christchurch itself, very English in style and design right down to having punting boats meandering down the river 

 Late spring proved a great time to visit as the cherry blossoms tulips and other spring flowers were in full bloom

interesting fact: the cherry blossom trees were propogated from trees that survived the atomic bombings in Nagasaki, showing how natures beauty can overcome the worst of destruction