Pros & Cons of Living in Christchurch

Thinking about to Christchurch? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Christchurch.

Picture this: a city nestled between the ocean and the mountains, where heritage and innovation coexist. Christchurch, is a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, increasingly attracting digital nomads from around the globe. But what's it really like to live and work remotely in the 'Garden City'? Let's dive into the pros and cons.

Pros of Living in Christchurch, New Zealand as a Digital Nomad

Firstly, Christchurch offers an exceptional quality of life. The city is compact and easy to navigate, with a laid-back pace that promotes a healthy work-life balance. Within minutes, you can swap your desk for a surfboard at Sumner Beach or hiking boots in the Port Hills. Digital nomad, Anna, found this particularly appealing, "I love that I can finish work, head to the beach for a swim, and still make it home for dinner."

The city's creative energy is another draw. Post-earthquake, Christchurch has reinvented itself as a hub of innovation, with collaborative workspaces and a thriving startup scene. The Exchange Christchurch (XCHC) is a great example, offering a café, events, and a co-working space all rolled into one. It's the perfect place to connect with like-minded individuals and tap into the local entrepreneurial spirit.

Lastly, New Zealand's time zone can be advantageous for digital nomads. If your clients or colleagues are based in Europe or North America, you'll start your day as they're ending theirs. This allows for productive, uninterrupted work time, with communication fitting neatly around this.

Cons of Living in Christchurch, New Zealand as a Digital Nomad

While the time zone can be a pro, it can also be a con. Depending on your work, you might find yourself needing to be online at odd hours. Digital nomad, Jake, struggled with this, "I had clients in the US, which meant late-night calls and sometimes disrupted sleep."

Another potential downside is the cost of living. While not as expensive as Auckland, Christchurch's living costs are higher than many places in Asia or South America popular with digital nomads. Accommodation, in particular, can be pricey. However, this is offset by the high quality of life and the absence of certain costs, like healthcare for many residents.

Lastly, while Christchurch's internet infrastructure is generally good, it might not be up to the standards you're used to if you're coming from a major global city. This can usually be worked around, but it's something to be aware of, particularly if your work requires high-speed internet.

Living in Christchurch as a digital nomad offers a unique blend of nature, creativity, and Kiwi culture. Like any destination, it has its pros and cons. But for those seeking a balanced lifestyle in a beautiful setting, Christchurch is certainly worth considering.