The Solo Scale:

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There’s a certain old school charm to methods of transportation that have endured throughout the decades. Whether you’re taking a funicular that’s been around for over a century, streetcars in various cities, or even train networks that have thrived, there’s a thrill in knowing something has that kind of longevity. When you arrive in Christchurch, you can that would be the Christchurch trams.

Not only are they a great form of transportation, but it’s also a great way to get a tour of the city. The trams make stops along many of the other sights that you could want to hop off and see. A few key points to highlight:

• The Gondola Shuttle (which will take you to the gondola which boasts great views of the mountains and ocean)
• The Botanic Gardens Tour starting point (along with Punting on the Avon)

Though it’s unique, it’s not a quick form of transportation. It’s an enjoyable way to sit back, relax, and enjoy the city. If you’re looking for speed, this won’t be it. Truthfully, the city is fairly compact along the tram route, so you could also walk between the stops, but the tram is far more quaint and fun. The entire tour takes around 50 minutes. If you’re planning to ride it around the city, make sure you budget enough time.

To find more information about the route, the price, and operation, check out the website here. If you are planning to ride the trams, I would strongly consider doing a combo ticket with the gondola, since that saves you a little money. Otherwise, the current price to do the NZ tram for a one-day pass is $40 NZD, which can get pricy. Bundling it with the gondola gives you a great day, but also helps to provide more value.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, you’re also in luck as Christchurch has an incredibly unique experience in the Tramway Restaurant, but be warned that they sell out fast, so reserve early!

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