Lonely Planet rates Christchurch a 'must see'

Christchurch has been named one of the top 10 cities in the world for 2013 by Lonely Planet.

Christchurch's determination to rise from the rubble meant the city was also richly rewarded with a spot on Lonely Planet's list.

Being placed sixth on the list from the globally popular travel guide, the only New Zealand city to make the 2013 list, is a boost for the city's tourism industry, which was devastated by the February 2011 earthquake.

Christchurch was singled out by Lonely Planet for the way it was "bouncing back with a new energy and inventiveness."

The Guide added "New Zealand's second largest city is rising from the rubble ... with a breathtaking mix of spirit, determination and flair."

Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism Chief Executive Tim Hunter told AAP the accolade was a tribute to the city's "let's get going" attitude and creative approach.

Hunter said some visitors to the region came because they were interested in the impact of the earthquake, but most visited because it remains the main gateway to the South Island and is still a "beautiful garden city".

He explained "this will certainly help the tourism industry ... it's a priceless recognition of all the hard work that has gone on. We've been very wounded, international visitor nights in accommodation are down 50% from before the earthquake.

"It's Christchurch's 'let's get going' energy that visitors like. It's not the old Christchurch that they're coming to see like the historical buildings it's a city with a bit of energy."

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker was thrilled Lonely Planet had picked up on all the exciting new aspects of the city.

Mayor Parker added "it's a real coup to get Christchurch included in the list of top 10 cities for 2013. As a regular user of Lonely Planet when I am travelling myself I fully understand the significant value of this recommendation."

Lonely Planet's Asia Pacific Sales and Marketing Director Christ Zeiher said 2013 would be a great year to visit Christchurch and "experience the amazing energy of the city in its rebuilding phase."

LONELY PLANET'S TOP 10 CITIES FOR 2013

San Francisco, USA
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Hyderabad, India
Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Beijing, China
Christchurch
Hobart
Montreal, Canada
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Puerto Iguazu, Argentina

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