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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Canterbury Provincial District]

[introduction]

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A visitor to Christchurch once jokingly remarked that he would publish a special business almanac for the city, and, to save expense in printing, would insert only those days which were not holidays, putting in a note to the effect that when there was a blank it must be understood that the shops would be shut, and the citizens away to New Brighton or Sumner to celebrate an anniversary of something or other. It is true that the inhabitants of Christchurch, and also of the province, love holiday-making. Perhaps this is on account of the facilities there are for enjoyment in this connection. On a hot summer day, the seaside charms of New Brighton and Sumner naturally entice, especially as there is a great deal of pleasure in going and returning in the trams. Boating on the Avon also has its attractions; and then with a few turns of the pedal of a bicycle, the citizen is away in the heart of rural scenery, amongst crofts and meadows, fields and hedges, where the town and its busy life are things of another world. All round Christchurch there are charming nooks and dells, which look as if they had been made specially for picnicers. It is not surprising, therefore, that people should be ready to leave town on the slightest provocation, and take advantage of their natural assets in the pleasant places provided for public recreation.