Tūranga is Christchurch's central library, standing on Cathedral Square in the central city, and carries a 4.8 rating from 1,119 Google reviews. Visitors single out the modern four-floor design, the cafe, welcoming staff and family facilities, with frequent mentions of the 3D printers and the views towards the cathedral.
A good central library now works as the city's free living room — somewhere to read, study or simply shelter without spending a cent. Joining is free for locals, and a card unlocks the wider network, including e-books and audiobooks you can borrow from home. Expect computers, wi-fi and staff who are skilled at tracking down the right book or resource. Parents learn quickly that a well-run children's area is the best wet-weather entertainment a city centre has. On Cathedral Square, Tūranga is a place worth an hour — or a whole rainy afternoon.