It's official: Ōtautahi Christchurch is one of the greatest places in the world. And that claim comes with some real cred from TIME Magazine.

The magazine’s annual travel guide includes 100 destinations “offering visitors an extraordinary experience that’s unlike any other”. It is the third year the New York-based magazine and news website have published the list.

The list described the city as “fully in recovery mode, welcoming hotel, restaurant and public-space openings almost every month”.

It specifically metioned the Ōtākaro Avon River promenade, Riverside Market, Tūranga and Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre. Mention was also made of Gap Filler’s creative use of space.

Laura Dawson, ChristchurchNZ Acting CEO, says she is excited to see the city on the list. “Global recognition of our home is always special, especially in a publication with a reputation for truth and legitimacy," she says. “Ōtautahi Christchurch champions ingenuity and creativity, resilience and revitalisation – characteristics synonymous with our city’s story – so to be included in TIME’s list for these reasons is affirming and heart-warming."

Mayor Lianne Dalziel says it is great news to see the city on TIME’s list. “Although our borders aren’t open right now, I am sure this will excite even greater interest in the city we have become,” Dalziel says. “We want to showcase the innovation and ingenuity which has been embedded in our city’s DNA. The fact that TIME has recognised the full potential of our city will further put us on the international stage.”

time.com