Around Lyttelton

For history: visit the Timeball station, torpedo museum, the historic Lyttelton steam tug boat, Lyttelton museum and Quail Island.

For walks: the visitor centre has maps and suggestions for local walks. The Bridle Path walk, following in the footsteps of the Canterbury pilgrims, or the volcano crater rim walk are good place to start.

For entertainment: The Loons has everything from circus theatre to quiz nights with local media personalities, the Harbour Light is a well-established and respected live music venue, the Lava Bar is a friendly local hang-out, the Wunderbar is worth a visit for the Berlin-by-night décor and balcony overlooking the port (it also has a variety of music), and new kid on the block the Monster Bar has a yakitori grill, delicious cocktails and occasional DJs and live music… then there are pubs along the quay with stories of times past and old fashioned service.

For food: Freemans for ‘leaning towards Italian’ cuisine, the Volcano for enchiladas and lots more, the Saturday morning Farmers Market for local produce and specialities, work your way through Lyttelton’s many cafes for lunch, Ground for the deli and Lyttel Piko for organic fare.

Retail therapy: check out the mostly local crafts and giftware along London Street and Oxford Street.

Out and about: kayaking, walking, mountain biking, swimming in Summer (beaches and local outdoor pool), take the commuter ferry to Diamond Harbour or cruise around the harbour.