My story
I'm a Canadian (oui, je parle Français, mais avec un accent terrible) who moved to the UK for work and stayed longer than planned because I met a Russian there (да, говорю по-русски, но грамматика сложно мне 😅) We ended up in Aotearoa New Zealand because it was the most beautiful place that we could easily move together!
What do I do here?
For my day job I work in student support at Te Kura, the online school. It's a combo of mentoring and career support, which I love. I used to be a teacher but this job has a much better work-life balance! I love to draw and paint, and I sell pet portraits as a little side hustle 🐈⬛ 🐕 I also love hiking, skiing, swimming (hot springs are my favourite!), cycling around the city, and playing basketball. I'm also passionate about food - eating it and cooking it! I grow veggies in my garden and make cider from our apple and pear trees.
What's the best of my city?
Christchurch is an underrated city! It's famous for an earthquake ten years ago, but it's recovered beautifully and has been rebuilt in innovative ways. It's full of cycle paths that make getting around easy and scenic, and whether you're cycling or driving it doesn't take long to get around the city...or get out of it and into some beautiful nature! Twenty minutes from the city centre you can walk in the Port Hills with breathtaking views of the coast and mountains, take a tunnel to the Lyttleton market, or go swimming or stand up paddleboarding in Sumner. In under two hours you can be in the mountains themselves or spotting dolphins and penguins on the Banks Peninsula. Whether you want hot springs or mountain biking, Christchurch makes a great base camp for your outdoor adventure.
My tours secret sauce
Localie appealed to me because I already host friends frequently and am used to showing people with different tastes and priorities around the city and area. I'll listen to what you're looking for and plan something that suits your interests and budget. I love travel myself and am almost always willing to try something new, so suggest away 😊 I also love a good snack and know where to find delicious treats and street food all over the city! Finally, I can pick you up at the airport or drive you to an experience out of town.
Interests
Museums
Places of Interest
Architecture
History
Art
Theaters
Shopping
Bars and Restaurants
Creative Spaces
Nature and Parks
Hiking
Photo
Kids Activities
I also provide
Road Trip
Accommodation
No matter who your localie is and where you're traveling to. The price is the same.
This flat fee is effective for up to 4 travellers, applied for every localie and destination you choose. 5+ is twice the standard rate.
Half a Day
Usually 3-4 hours
Whole Day
Usually 6-8 hours
Brisk Walk
Usually 1-2 hours
Bespoke
We're helping to craft the best possible itinerary, keeping you away from the tourist bubble.
Discover Christchurch with Margaret Cassidy
