UKQS

Hi can anyone please recommend any hotels to stay in whilst I search for accomodation and also if there are any coastal areas that could be suitable for longer term rental properties within a commutable distance to Christchurch? Failing that which part of the Christchurch suburbs would you consider the most sociable in terms of activities such as team sports and local entertainment?

chippy64

Always wary of recommending as one man's heaven.......

Best bet is probably to have a look on tripadvisor, take the reviews with a pinch of salt and then search for good rates. If you are planning on a long term stay at hotel/motel then contact them direct as they may be able to offer you a discounted rate. Otherwise, compare wotif.com and jasons.co.nz.

UKQS

Thanks Chippy, it will only be for about 4 weeks (in a hotel) initially until I find longer term accommodation but I will try those sites thanks.

chippy64

You could also look here http://www.bookabach.co.nz/baches-an...r-by/low-price and here http://www.holidayhomes.co.nz/for-re.../christchurch/.

Jan n Neil

What deal have the new employer given you with accommodation ?

Neil

UKQS

Thanks again Chippy

Hi Neil they have offered up to 4 weeks in a hotel to help find somewhere to lay my hat!

Jan n Neil

I was going to offer you a bed here but 4 weeks should be plenty


Bring references with you it,s a big thing here, if you have none get some rellies to write a couple and warn them they might get a follow up call

UKQS

Thanks for considering the offer Neil I am already loving the expat spirit in Christchurch! That was very kind of you but as you rightly say I should have plenty of time to look around from a hotel. I will be getting a NZ sim card when I arrive so I will message you my number when I arrive and perhaps we could go for a beer?

Persephone

I can't help with any good hotels as I've never stayed in one in Chch. A motel will probably be a better bet than a hotel as you get cooking facilities, generally a fridge, crockery, pans, cutlery and full oven [but some have just a hob] You may of course be planning on eating out every night...and of course if your employer is paying...
In general I find that motels are good quality though the cheaper ones can sometimes be a little dated.
If you're looking for local entertainment then near to Riccarton or Merivale would be good options. Can't help with team sports- I don't do that sort of thing

UKQS

Great advice as always, thanks Persephone!

UKQS

Found out I will be in Fendalton for the first 4 weeks at least. Got a house oraganised by my new employer and have the option to stay on longer.

chippy64

That's fairly central. Not too far from Riccarton for shopping, bars etc or Hagley Park for some open spaces. You can get bus to the seaside - Sumner, New Brighton, Waimairi.
When are you due to arrive?

UKQS

Hi Chippy seems like a good location but I suppose actually living there for a bit will tell the true story. Thanks for the info, I will be arriving on 18th July.

chippy64

A lot of Fendalton is quite 'posh' . Lots of expensive houses so maybe you will be in one of those

UKQS

I could give you the exact address and maybe you could do some reconnaissance for me! Just kidding!