The conference will be held at the University of Canterbury (UC), located in the suburb of Ilam, approximately 5 km west of Christchurch city centre. Surrounded by scenic green spaces and close to local amenities, UC provides a safe and vibrant environment for delegates.  

The Rātā / Engineering Core Building, will host the daily conference proccedings. It is centrally located on campus, features modern teaching spaces, breakout areas, and technology-enabled facilities to support presentations, workshops, and networking.

Ilam Homstead will host the welcome reception. 

The University of Canterbury Campus Map 

Access & Transportation:

• From Christchurch Airport: Approximately 15 minutes by car, taxi, rideshare, or local bus services.

• Guest Parking: Visitor parking is available on campus with clearly signposted designated areas.

• Public Transport: Bus stops are conveniently located near the main entrances, offering regular services to and from the city.

• Taxi & Ride Share: Easy access via main roads, with designated drop-off and pick-up zones near the Rātā Building.

UC’s accessible location and modern facilities make it an ideal venue for both local and international attendees.

Pauchy Award:

The inaugural Pauchy Award for Early Career Researchers will be presented at CosPA 2026 in Christchurch.  Applications for the award are invited from postdocs or graduate students in the Asia-Pacific regions in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, and particle physics. For further details of eligibility and the nomination procedure click here.

Applications are to be submitted to Ming-chung Chu, mcchu@cuhk.edu.hk, by 10 March 2026. The awardee will be invited to give a talk and receive the award at CosPA 2026.

Kerr Prize:

Since ACGRG 5 in Christchurch in 2009, the Kerr Prize has been awarded for the best student presentation(s) at every Australasian Conference on General Relativity and Gravitation. With ACGRG back in Christchurch in 2026, we hope that Canterbury Distinguished Professor Roy Kerr might present the Prize in person.

Past Kerr Prize recipients

Registrations can be made here.

Abstract submissions can be made here.

New Zealand is well connected to the world, with direct flights from major cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and the west coast of the United States. Flights from nearby regions, including Australia and Pacific islands, are much shorter, typically around three hours.

Christchurch Airport serves as the main gateway to the South Island, providing easy access to both the city and the region’s spectacular natural attractions.

International flights: Christchurch International Airport is served by multiple international airlines, providing direct flights from over 10 countries worldwide. 

• Air New Zealand
• Jetstar AirwaysQantas Airways
• Emirates
• Singapore Airlines
• Cathay Pacific
• China Southern Airlines
• United Airlines
• Fiji Airways

Weekly connections: Up to 115 flights per week link Christchurch with global destinations.

Auckland connections: Around 20 domestic flights (Air New Zealand and Jetstar) operate daily between Auckland and Christchurch, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.

Getting to the city: The airport is just a 15-minute drive from the city centre, with regular taxis and public transport available.

Getting to University of Canterbury: Campus is approximately 6 km from the airport and 2 km from the city centre, accessible by car, taxi, rideshare, or local bus services.

Local options: 

Fyffe on Riccarton Motor Lodge

• Friendly 3star motor lodge, 0.5–1.5 km from UC (walking distance for many), 
• Generally $90–$160/night.

Riccarton Motor Lodge / Riccarton Mall area motels 

• A variety of small motels are clustered near Westfield Riccarton Mall. 1–3 km from UC, generally.
• Generally $80–$160/night depending on unit size. 

Grand Riccarton Hotel / The Riccarton Hotel

• Larger hotel options near Riccarton Road/Westfield Mall, 1–3 km from UC, 
• Generally $120–$200/night. 

Bush Inn Court Motel (Upper Riccarton) 

• Well-rated motel close to Riccarton shops, 2–3 km from UC.
• Generally $90–$150/night.

298 Westside Motor Lodge / 306 Motel Apartments 

• Practical, family-friendly motels right near to campus or a very short drive, 0.5–2 km from UC.
• Generally $90–$160/night. 

Ascot Vale Motor Lodge / Apollo Motel / Coachman Motel

• Reliable mid-range motels with easy parking, 1–3 km from UC.
• Generally $80–$150/night. 

Classique Lodge Motel / Golden Hotel

• Comfortable, well-reviewed local motels, 1–3 km from UC.
• Generally $80–$160/night.

Hostels & budget options:

LyLo Christchurch (airport area / formerly JUCY Snooze)

• 12–16 km from UC, 15–25 min drive depending on route/traffic. Bus Route close by. 

• Typical price NZ$40–$110 / night (capsule/hostel beds at lower end; private rooms higher).

Drifter Christchurch (96 Lichfield St, CBD)

• 5–6 km from UC; CBD location, around 10–20 min drive / good bus link.

• Typical price: NZ$40–$120 / night (dorm beds and private rooms).

Haka House Christchurch (Hereford St / CBD)

•  5–6 km (central Christchurch). around 10–20 min drive / good bus links.
• Typical July price: NZ$35–$120 / night (backpacker / student-style accommodation; private rooms available).

Airbnb

• Riccarton and Ilam  have many Airbnb options, most within 3 km of UC (5 minute drive or 10-20 minue walk)  
• Typical July AirBnB price: NZ$80–$180 / night depending on size/location and whether it’s a whole house/apartment.

Hotels:

Crowne Plaza Christchurch (Colombo St, CBD)

•  5–6 km from UC (Ilam) — 10–15 min drive.

  Typically NZ$120–$220 / night (higher for upgraded rooms and peak season). 

Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square

•  5–6 km from UC (Cathedral Square is in the CBD).- 10–20 min drive. (Good bus links).

• Typical JNZ$130–$240 / night  (higher for upgraded rooms and peak season). 

Ibis Christchurch (CBD)

• 5–6 km from UC; 10–20 min drive / 20–30 min public transport. 

• Typicaly NZ$90–$150 / night (higher for upgraded rooms and peak season). 

Fino Hotel & Suites (CBD)

•  5–6 km from UC. 10–20 min drive

• Typically NZ$120–$220 / night (suite/apartment style rooms tend toward upper end). 

BreakFree on Cashel (Cashel St, CBD)

• 6–7 km from UC . 15–25 min drive/ 25–30 min by bus. 

• Typical price NZ$90–$160 / night.

Hotel Give (central, former YMCA — socially sustainable hotel)

•  5–6 km (central Christchurch, near Botanical Gardens / Riverside Markets). 10–20 min drive to UC. 

• Typical price: NZ$80–$140 / night (budget/midmarket; charity model). 

   

A welcome reception will be held at Ilam Homestead on Monday . Drinks and canapes are included.  Dress code is smart casual. 

A confernce dinner will be held on Thursday evening.  Venue to be confirmed. Drinks and meals provided. Dress code is smart casual. 

An excurison will be offered Wednesday afternoon, this will likely be a tour of Christchurch attractions or a nearby regional location.  

TBC 

A list of particpants wil be published here.

It is our policy of participants of CosPA2026 & ACGRG13 enjoy an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment. We are committed to making this conference productive and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, nationality or religion.

This code of conduct applies to all participants of the conference.

We ask that you follow these guidelines:

• Behave professionally. Harassment and sexist, racist, or exclusionary comments or jokes are not appropriate. Harassment includes sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, sexual attention or innuendo, deliberate intimidation, stalking, and photography or recording of an individual without consent. It also includes offensive comments related to race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size or religion.

• All communication should be appropriate for a professional audience including people of many different backgrounds. Sexual or sexist language and imagery is not appropriate.

• Be considerate and respectful to others. Do not insult or put down other attendees. Critique ideas rather than individuals.

Individuals engaging in behavior prohibited by this policy as well as those making allegations of harassment in bad faith will be subject to disciplinary action. Such actions range from a verbal warning to ejection from the meeting or activity in question and the reporting of their behavior to their employer.

• Jenni Adams 
• Scott Collier
• Chris Gordon
• Morag Hills
• Zachary Lane
• Pierre Mourier
• Ryan Ridden-Harper
• Jesse Satherley
• Chris Stevens
• Shreyas Tiruvaskar
• David Wiltshire

Scientific Organising Committee

University Canterbury:

• Jenni Adams
• Chris Stevens
• David Wiltshire

APCosPA:

• Pisin Chen (National Taiwan University)
• Ming-Chung Chu (Chinese University of Hong Kong)
•  Richard Easther (University  Auckland)
• Sang Pyo Kim (Kunsan National University)
• Raymond Volkas (University of Melbourne)
• Bin Wang (Shanghai Jiao Tong University / Yangzhou University)
• Jun'ichi Yokoyama (University of Tokyo)

ASGRG:

• Susan Scott (Australian National University)
• Matt Visser (Victoria University)
• Karl Wette (Australian National University)

The offical ChristchurchNZ  and New Zealand Tourism webpages provides some great options to experience the best of Christchurch and beyound.  

Local Attractions 

Mona Vale Gardens

Distance: 5 min drive | 20 min walk
A tranquil heritage estate with sweeping lawns, rose gardens, and riverside paths. Ideal for a peaceful stroll or a catch-up over coffee at the Mona Vale Homestead Café.
Location: 63 Fendalton Road 

Free entry

Riccarton Bush / Pūtaringamotu & Riccarton House

Distance: 3 min drive | 15 min walk
Step into Christchurch’s last remnant of native lowland forest. The easy walking trail sits beside Riccarton House, a beautifully restored homestead. On Saturdays, enjoy the vibrant Christchurch Farmers’ Market with artisan food and live music.
Location: 16 Kahu Road

Free entry

Market Sat 8 am–1 pm

Kate Sheppard House (Heritage NZ)

Distance: 4 min drive | 25 min walk
Visit the home of Kate Sheppard, the suffragist who led New Zealand to become the first country in the world to grant women the vote. The beautifully preserved house and garden offer insight into Aotearoa’s social history.
Location:83 Clyde Road

 Entry fee applies

Open daily

UC Art Collection & Campus Exhibitions

Distance: On campus
Explore one of New Zealand’s largest university art collections, displayed across campus buildings and curated exhibitions. Contact UC Arts for short guided tours or exhibition listings.
Location: Various locations on campus

 Free entry

Air Force Museum of New Zealand (Wigram)

Distance: 7 min drive
An impressive, interactive museum chronicling New Zealand’s aviation history. Highlights include heritage aircraft, immersive displays, and flight simulators.
Location: 45 Harvard Avenue 

Free entry

Open daily 10 am–5 pm

Avon River Trail & Hagley Park Link

Access: from Riccarton Bush or Mona Vale
Enjoy a gentle riverside walk or bike ride from the UC area into Hagley Park and the central city. Ideal for early-morning exercise or quiet evening reflection.
 Location:Connects UC to central Christchurch 

Free access

Central City Highlights

Christchurch Botanic Gardens & Hagley Park

Iconic and central — walk among themed gardens, heritage trees, and the Avon River. A must-see for any visitor.
Location: Rolleston Avenue 

Free entry

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū

Striking architecture and a rich mix of contemporary and classic New Zealand art. Excellent café and gift shop on site.
Location: Montreal Street

Free entry

Riverside Market & Cashel Street Promenade

Covered indoor market packed with boutique food stalls, coffee roasters, and artisan goods — buzzing atmosphere rain or shine.
Location: Corner of Cashel & Oxford Terrace

Punting on the Avon River

Take a classic English-style punt through the Botanic Gardens. Relaxing, photogenic, and right in the city centre.
Location: Worcester Bridge / Antigua Boatsheds 

Ticketed

Christchurch Tramway

Hop-on hop-off city circuit linking all major attractions, including the Art Gallery, Botanic Gardens, and Riverside Market. Great overview for first-time visitors.
Location: Central city

Ticketed

Gardens, Parks & Nature

Port Hills & Christchurch Gondola

Ride to the summit for spectacular views over Lyttelton Harbour, Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps.

Location: 10 Bridle Path Road, Heathcote

Ticketed 

Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre Café

Even in wet weather, you can enjoy the gardens from inside a glass-walled café overlooking the lawns.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Location: 10–12 min from UC (Northwest Christchurch)
A blend of farm animals, native birds, and the Kiwi for Kiwi nocturnal house.

Highlights:

• Guaranteed kiwi viewing

• Tuatara, kea, and rare native species

• Māori cultural show and hāngi dinner option

   

Orana Wildlife Park

Location: 20–25 min west (near Christchurch Airport)
New Zealand’s only open-range zoo, featuring exotic and native species in spacious habitats.

Highlights:

• Lions, giraffes, rhinos, and cheetahs
• Native bird aviaries and kiwi house
• Safari-style shuttle rides through the park

Christchurch Adventure Park

Location: 20 min southwest (Port Hills)
One of the city’s most exciting attractions — a world-class hub for mountain biking, ziplining, and panoramic views.

Highlights:

• Scenic chairlift to the summit
• 1.8 km dual zipline (fastest in NZ!)
• Walking tracks and hillside café/bar
• Spectacular views over the city and Alps.

Coastal & Scenic Spots

Sumner & Taylor’s Mistake Beaches

Popular coastal suburbs with cafes, cliff walks, and surf beaches. Easy half-day trip from UC.
Location:  20 min drive east

Lyttelton Port & Farmers Market (Saturdays)

Historic port town through the tunnel, with great food, live music, and harbour views.

Location: London Street, Lyttelton

 Sat 9 am–1 pm

New Brighton Pier & He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools

Walk the pier or soak in ocean-view hot pools — a perfect relaxing option after conference days.
Location:  Marine Parade, New Brighton

Entry fee applies

Spencer Park & Bottle Lake Forest

Location: 25–30 min north-east
A family-friendly coastal park with forest trails, picnic areas, and beach access.

Highlights:

• Walking and biking tracks through pine forest

• Wildlife at Brooklands Lagoon

• Playground, mini-golf, and BBQ areas

   

Museums, Culture & Innovation

Tūranga (Christchurch Central Library)

Architecturally stunning five-storey library with interactive tech displays, rooftop views, and café.
Location: Cathedral Square 

Free entry

Quake City Museum

Engaging small museum explaining the 2010–11 earthquakes and Christchurch’s rebuild story.
Location:  299 Durham Street North 

Entry fee applies

Kate Sheppard House (Heritage NZ)

Historic home of New Zealand’s suffrage leader — a must for those interested in history or social reform.
Location: Clyde Road, Ilam

Entry fee applies

International Antarctic Centre

Location: 15–20 min from UC (by the airport)
Interactive, fun, and educational — a must-see indoor/outdoor experience themed around Antarctic exploration.

Highlights:

• Simulated Antarctic storm experience

• Hägglund all-terrain vehicle ride

• Little blue penguin rescue centre

• 4D theatre and science exhibits

   

   

Food, Wine & Evenings

The Terrace & Oxford Terrace

Christchurch’s main riverside dining area . Lively bars and restaurants overlooking the Avon.

The Tannery (Woolston)

Boutique shopping arcade with local fashion, craft breweries, and elegant eateries , all under cover.
Location: Garlands Road 

Christchurch Casino & Victoria Street Precinct

Upscale dining, nightlife, and entertainment close to the city centre.

Wineries (Waipara or Tai Tapu)

Enjoy the Waipara wine region (45 min) or a shorter scenic lunch at Rossendale or Trent’s Estate (20 min south).

Beyond Christchurch

Akaroa & Banks Peninsula

Travel time: 1.5 hrs from UC 
A charming French-influenced harbour town surrounded by volcanic hills. Enjoy boutique shops, local cheese and seafood, and harbour cruises to see Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest and rarest species.
Highlights:

• Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise (Black Cat Cruises)

• The Giant’s House sculpture garden

• Akaroa Museum and historic cottages

• French-style cafés and waterfront dining

   

Castle Hill / Kura Tāwhiti Conservation Area

Travel time: 1 hr 15 min west (toward Arthur’s Pass)
Famous for its dramatic limestone rock formations — a natural wonder popular with photographers, walkers, and climbers. The Dalai Lama once called it a “spiritual centre of the universe.”
Highlights:

• Short scenic walk among the boulders 

• Panoramic mountain views

• Combine with a stop at Springfield or Porters Pass Lookout
  Tip: Dress warmly; conditions can change quickly in the high country.

   

Canterbury Ski Fields

Travel time: 1–1.5 hrs west
Within easy reach of Christchurch, Canterbury offers several excellent ski options for all levels:

• Porters Alpine Resort – closest to Christchurch (1 hr 15 min), friendly and accessible.

• Mt Hutt – One of NZ’s best-known ski field (1 hr 45 min); large terrain, reliable snow, and great on-mountain dining.

• Craigieburn & Broken River – club-style ski areas for more adventurous skiers.
  Tip: Car rental or shuttle services available; perfect for a weekend extension.

   

Waipara Wine Region

Travel time: 50 min north of UC
An acclaimed cool-climate wine region known for Pinot Noir and Riesling. The valley has over 20 vineyards, many with award-winning restaurants.
Highlights:

• Pegasus Bay Winery

• Greystone Wines & Restaurant

• Black Estate and Waipara Hills cellar doors

Iconic South Island Experiences 

TranzAlpine Scenic Railway

• Travel time: Departs from Christchurch Railway Station 
  Journey length: 4.5 hrs one-way to Greymouth
• One of the world’s most spectacular train journeys, the TranzAlpine crosses the Canterbury Plains, climbs through the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, and descends through lush rainforest to the West Coast.

Highlights:

• Glass-roofed carriages and open-air viewing decks

• Stops at Arthur’s Pass and Greymouth (option to return same day or stay overnight)

• Incredible views of braided rivers, gorges, and alpine peaks

 Arthur’s Pass National Park

• Travel time: 2 hrs west
  The South Island’s highest highway pass and a dramatic gateway to the Alps. Perfect for walkers, photographers, and nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall walk

• Kea (alpine parrots) often seen at the viaduct lookout

• Short alpine hikes from the village or longer tramps for the fit

• Quaint Arthur’s Pass village with cosy accommodation

Hanmer Springs Alpine Village

• Travel time: 1 hr 45 min north-west
  A relaxing alpine escape surrounded by forests and mountains.

Highlights:

• Thermal Pools & Spa (thermal and sulfur pools, water slides, day spa)

• Forest walking and cycling tracks

• Jet boating and bungy jumping options for the adventurous

• Boutique shops and cafés

West Coast Adventure – Greymouth or Hokitika

• Travel time: 3–4.5 hrs (via Arthur’s Pass or TranzAlpine train)
  Enter a world of rainforest, wild coastline, and glacier-fed rivers.

Highlights:

• Hokitika Gorge turquoise river walk

• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and blowholes (north of Greymouth)

• Pounamu (greenstone) carving studios and local art galleries

• Wild West Coast sunsets

 Lake Tekapo & Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park

• Travel time: 3–4 hrs south-west
  A spectacular alpine route through the Mackenzie Basin, perfect for a two-day circuit from Christchurch.

Highlights:

• Lake Tekapo’s turquoise waters and Church of the Good Shepherd

• Mt John Observatory (stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve)

• Aoraki/Mt Cook alpine walks 

• Hot Springs at Tekapo Springs

   

Kaikōura Coastal Experience

• Travel time: 2.5 hrs north
  Famous for marine life and mountain-meets-sea landscapes.
• Highlights:

• Whale watching (by boat or air)

• Dolphin and seal swimming encounters

• Coastal hiking and seafood dining (try the local Crayfish)

   

The Alpine Pacific Touring Route

• Distance: 450 km circuit (2–3 days recommended)
  Route: Christchurch → Waipara → Hanmer Springs → Kaikōura → Christchurch
• A scenic circuit connecting vineyards, hot pools, and coastal wildlife. Perfect for a long weekend self-drive itinerary.

Highlights:

• Wine tasting in Waipara

• Soaking in Hanmer Springs

• Whale watching in Kaikōura

• Stunning alpine-to-sea transitions

   

Lake Coleridge & Rakaia Gorge Loop

• Travel time: 1.5 hrs south-west
  Less well-known but breathtaking, this area offers alpine lakes, river gorges, and peaceful picnic spots.

Highlights:

• Rakaia Gorge walkway and lookout

• Lake Coleridge scenic drive

• Ōpuke Thermal Pools (Methven) for a relaxing finish

• Tip: A great detour for delegates with a rental car seeking a quieter local gem.

Discover the Wider South Island

For delegates extending their stay, the South Island offers some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery, all accessible within a short flight, train, or a scenic drive from Christchurch.

To the south and west, you’ll find Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, where alpine peaks meet crystal-clear lakes and year-round activities range from jet boating and bungy jumping to world-class dining and vineyards.

From there, it’s an easy journey to the Fiordland National Park, home to the majestic Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, renowned for their towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife cruises.

Nature lovers can explore the Southern Alps and Mackenzie Basin, with turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and star-filled skies in the Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park , part of the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve.

For those seeking iconic walking experiences, New Zealand’s Great Walks are within reach: the Routeburn, Kepler, and Milford Tracks in Fiordland; or the Abel Tasman Coast Track further north, famed for golden beaches and native forest.

Whether by road, rail, or air, Christchurch is the ideal gateway to experience the full beauty and diversity of  the South Island of New Zealand.