Hello all. I live in the U.S., but I'm a frequent visitor to the Christchurch and I was curious if there was any kind of garage/punk/surf scene in the  area.  Is anyone here from Chch or the South Island?  It would be a nice change of pace to check out some local bands the next time I'm in town.  If anyone is aware of any active bands in the area or how to find upcoming shows, please let me know.  Thanks!

Joe. For gigs (in addition to the above) check out "the darkroom" http://www.darkroombar.co.nz/?gclid=CPSIq42soLMCFcxYpQodzm4AEg for the more alternative bands ... for an good overview of whats on everywhere try http://www.mukuna.co.nz/christchurch/index.htm#axzz2ATBeuJz6 ...also one CHCH band you never want to see (shameless self promotion): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNSZs3NJlOo&feature=plcp 

Cool, thanks for the links (a visit to Wunderbar sounds a bit daunting!)  It will be a few months before I'm back in New Zealand, but I'd certainly appreciate any help.

Hi Joe.  I'm from Christchurch.  The best venues to look at are probably these:

http://www.facebook.com/Dux.Live.Christchurch

http://www.facebook.com/wunderbar.bar

The style of music varies at these places but bands you like are likely to play here.  There's not always garage punk gigs on in Christchurch on any given week but there are good things happening here.  If you let me know when you are here I could inform you of anything you may like.