Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand. It is located on the Canterbury Plains, the extensive flood plain for a number of major rivers including the Waimakariri that originate in the Southern Alps. Christchurch is a coastal city covering an approximate geographic area of around 1,430 square kilometers, although growing satellite and dormitory towns are increasing this footprint.

According to 2013 Census data, the greater Christchurch metropolitan area had a population of 436,056. Geographically, the city is characterized by its eastern coastline (predominantly alluvial [Page 267]sand beaches and drained swampland) and the Avon (Ōtākaro) and Heathcote (Ōpāwaho) rivers that dissect the urban area. Banks Peninsula is on the eastern flank of the city, with its rugged hills and two dormant volcanoes ...