New Brighton Pier and Beach

See the Canterbury coast fromthis splendid reincarnation of the traditional English seaside pier. The first pier was opened in 1894. New Brighton gained popularity as a seaside escape in the late 19th century when trams began running from Christchurch.

New Brighton Surf Life Saving Club, established in 1910, is the oldest in New Zealand.

The beach itself is part of a great stretch of sandy beach on Pegasus Bay, great for surfing.

The new award winning public library is a great place to view the sea in the warmth and it has a collection of photographs of the famous pier. On a nice day the beach is fine for a refreshing swim and some wave jumping, and if you want a long, brisk walk on the beach, New Brighton’s the place.

New Brighton Beach by James Nairn

Image Credit: Delphine Ducaruge on Unsplash