Christchurch: Facts and figures

The Indian cricket team takes on New Zealand in a Twenty20 international, the first match of the team's 47-day tour, at Christchurch on Wednesday, February 25. The garden city will also stage the third ODI of the five-match series on March 8.

If you are there for the action, make sure you also enjoy all that the city has to offer besides the cricket.

Christchurch's landscape is impossible to ignore. Big scenery is the order of the day -- huge panoramas of ocean or mountains, great sweeps of pastureland and massive amounts of sky. Like the rest of New Zealand, it is a city of contrasts with unrivalled natural and architectural beauty -- 19th century buildings, majestic trees, extensive gardens, interesting bridges and meandering paths all providing a striking backdrop for the vibrant scene of ever-changing arts, cultural and heritage activities.

The tranquil Avon River flows through the city, historic buildings house a lively arts community and restored trams make it easy for visitors to get around. Its residents enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle amidst a natural environment, world-renowned for its beauty. A growing cosmopolitan ambience also adds a touch of excitement without overt flashiness.

Check out the score at the AMI Stadium, originally Lancaster Park before it was renamed Jade Stadium in 1998. Then enjoy your time in Christchurch.

Match dates:

February 25 - First T20

March 8: Third ODI

Statistical Overview - T20 Internationals

 at Christchurch

Statistical Overview - One-Day Internationals

+ There were two more matches in which home side was not involved

India's ODI record at Christchurch

India's ODI matches at Christchurch

Statistics: Rajneesh Gupta

When in Christchurch don't  miss:

1.      Hot Air Ballooning: Enjoy a sunrise flight in a hot air balloon high above the city, floating over the Canterbury Plains, with views of the breathtaking Southern Alps and the endless blue of the ocean, topped off with a champagne breakfast.

2.      International Antarctic Centre: The International Antarctic Centre is as close as most of us will get to the real South Pole. This interactive experience takes you on a journey of discovery. Take a ride in a snowmobile and experience real wind chill and snow, view a working Antarctic campus to see how to plan and organize an Antarctic expedition and witness the scenery and wildlife of Antarctica.

3.      Christchurch gondola: To really "see" Christchurch, you've got to visit the Gondola. Take a ride to the summit of the Port Hills and enjoy New Zealand's only 360 degree gondola view. The panorama includes Banks Peninsula, Lyttelton Harbour, Pacific Ocean, Canterbury Plains and the distant peaks of the Southern Alps.

4.      Punting on the Avon River: Refined, relaxing, romantic, punting is an authentic Edwardian and iconic with Christchurch. All you need to do is sink back into the velvet cushions and let the Edwardian punter propel you from the historic Antigua Boatsheds past the leafy banks of the Botanic Gardens on the prettiest stretch of the Avon River. - punting is an iconic Christchurch attraction that is not to be missed.

5.      Pohatu Penguins: Pohatu is the largest little penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. 4WD safaris enable you to visit this remote and beautiful area, meet the local experts and learn of conservation and day-to-day life of white-flippered penguins within the large Pohatu Colony. Sea kayaking safaris give great wildlife viewing opportunities and allow the adventurous to explore New Zealand's spectacular coastline

6.      Willowbank Wildlife Reserve: New Zealand's premiere wildlife park showing one of the most complete selections of native and introduced wildlife in their natural environment. You can enjoy the rare experience of New Zealand's largest and most unique daytime Kiwi viewing area. See many of New Zealand's rare nocturnal animals and birds, including kiwis in their natural environment.

7.      Nightlife: SOL Square is the centre of entertainment in Christchurch. An eclectic mix of bars, cafés and restaurants – patrons spilling out onto the streets and laneways, a flurry of activity and good times – means there is something for every taste or budget. Whether catching up with friends for coffee, going out for dinner, a wild night of salsa, cocktails, live music or dancing till dawn, SOL has what you need for a great night out.

Travel guide: Courtesy www.newzealand.com