Another outstanding edifice that embellishes Cathedral Square is the former Chief Post Office building. Construction began in 1877, originally it was designed to house governmental offices, later became a Chief Post Office and nowadays it is home to a Tourist Information Center. Its Italian style riffs off the other landmarks in the square in an aesthetically pleasing way.

The former Government Building is one of Cathedral Square and Worchester Street's architectural treasures. Situated just behind the cathedral itself, it was originally home to Christchurch's government offices. Constructed in 1911, in a beautiful Italian renaissance style, this elegant building was later transformed into the stylish hotel it is today.

Cathedral Square is an area of the city where you'll find many of Christchurch's top landmarks, including the Press Building. Constructed in 1907-09, it was the city's first iron concrete building. Its perpendicular Gothic style gives the building an imposing, yet attractive, appearance. The south-west corner is garnished with an octagonal-roofed tower.

Christchurch was raised around this imposing edifice. Located in Cathedral Square, this strikingly grandiose Anglican cathedral is now inseparable from the city it serves. Construction began in 1864, but had to be halted due to financial problems before resuming in 1873. It is home to a number of splendid features: the cathedral's stained glass windows, wall panels, font, altar, and bells are all rich in heritage value.

The Regent Theatre Building has played an important part in Christchurch's cultural development. This Edwardian baroque style edifice was erected in 1905 - it was first known as the Royal Exchange Building and housed offices, warehouses and a large café. Later it was transformed into a luxurious movie theatre, at the time New Zealand's largest.

Standing on the intersection of two streets, the Fisher’s Building is an architectural curiosity of central Christchurch. It stands out for its unusual triangular form and eye-catching Venetian Gothic style. Built in 1880, the building was one of prominent architect W.B. Armson's masterpieces. It originally housed a grocery store opened by a former Reverend.

Near the city center you'll find an Edwardian style building that is The Theatre Royal. Originally built in 1863, a new building was erected nearby in 1907 which remains home to the theatre to this day. This charitable foundation has delighted spectators with the finest classical performances for a century.

The Provincial Council Buildings are another treasure of Christchurch. They are the finest example of Gothic revival style cast in stone and timber in all of New Zealand, and are listed among the New Zealand Historic Places of Trust. In parallel with their architectural value, they also mirrored the economic development of the country in the 1850s and 1860s.

Another impressive architectural attraction in Christchurch is Durham Street Methodist Church. First opened to the public in 1864, the church was the first stone religious building in the Canterbury region. Its Victorian Gothic style comes with a number of interesting features including beautiful stained-glass windows and an original pipe organ which was Christchurch's first hand-pumped organ. Among locals it has earned the nickname “The Mother Church of Methodism”.

Designed by master architect W. Mountfort, the Victoria Street Clock Tower was assembled in England before being sent to New Zealand in 1860. Meant for the Provincial Council Buildings, it had to be moved to another site for Queen Victoria's Jubilee, before being moved again to its present location. The tower was designed to symbolize the connection between New Zealand and its former colonial power.

Located in the buildings of the former University of Canterbury, the Christchurch Arts Center is a hub for arts, crafts and entertainment in the city. Most of these buildings were designed by Benjamin Mountfort and are listed structures. The center is home to galleries, theatres and cinemas, as well as specialty shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants. The center also hosts regular festivals and special events, as well as a delightful weekend market. Outside you'll find the Twelve Local Heroes, a series of bronze busts commemorating prominent locals from the latter part of the 20th century.