Money exchange is pretty much done around the city centre area. In order to save money, it is important to compare rates in different banks and exchange places. The night life is mainly bright around the Strip, area in the city centre close to the Avon River, where some pubs, restaurants and night clubs are placed. Lichfield Street has some nice restaurants with a reasonable good price and some amazing food experience, perhaps the Mexican Cafe or the Honey Pot at the corner of Lichfield and Manchester Streets. In Lichfield Street, you can also find "the only gay bar", upstairs above Ministry, called Cruz. It generally starts pretty late, after 12am and the music is quite catchy with some insteresting people around. :) Christchurch is quite a safe city, however like being anywhere in the World and not being a local, always look over your shoulder for security and don't trust everybody, but kiwi's are pretty easy going and friendly. Enjoy this city's experience. It is a peace of England on the other side of the World but with much better weather!