Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand and known for its English heritage and stunning gardens. The city was severely impacted by a series of earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, leading to significant damage to its infrastructure. Despite this tragedy, Christchurch has undergone a remarkable transformation with the introduction of innovative architecture and vibrant street art.

Visitors can enjoy the city's bustling food scene, outdoor activities, and nearby natural attractions like the Banks Peninsula.

Places to visit

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Kia ora" - Hello
  • "Haere mai" - Welcome
  • "No worries" - No problem
  • "Sweet as" - Great
  • "Cheer bro" - Thanks, mate

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring the City and Gardens

morning:Start your day with a visit to the Botanic Gardens, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk among beautiful plants and flowers. Afterward, head to C1 Espresso for a delicious breakfast with an industrial-themed setting.

afternoon:Continue your day with a visit to the Canterbury Museum to dive into the rich history and culture of the region. For lunch, grab a bite at Rollickin Gelato for some unique and tasty flavors.

evening:In the evening, head to The Arts Centre Market for an enjoyable night-out, where you can explore local art and crafts while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere.

day 2

Exploring the Wildlife and Views

morning:Experience the magic of nature at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, where you can encounter native New Zealand wildlife up close. For breakfast, try the Dose Diner for a cozy meal and a great cup of coffee.

afternoon:Visit the Christchurch Gondola for stunning panoramic views of the city and the Southern Alps. Enjoy lunch at the Red Rock Cafe while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

evening:For a lively night-out, head to The Bog Irish Bar for a fun and friendly atmosphere with great music and drinks.

day 3

Coastal Adventure and Seafood Feast

morning:Start your day with a scenic drive to New Brighton Beach, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful coastline. Stop by Hello Sunday for a delightful brunch with a charming ambiance.

afternoon:Explore the vibrant street art in the Sumner area, and then head to Fush for a delicious seafood lunch featuring sustainable and local catches.

evening:In the evening, enjoy a night-out at The Pegasus Arms, a historic pub with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, offering a great selection of beers and live music.

day 4

Historical Exploration and Shopping Spree

morning:Embark on a journey through time at the Quake City museum, where you can gain insight into the impact of the earthquakes on Christchurch. Stop by Ballantynes for a delightful breakfast and some shopping at this iconic department store.

afternoon:Discover the vibrant Re:START Mall, a unique shopping destination built from shipping containers. Enjoy lunch at Little High Eatery, a bustling food court offering a variety of cuisines.

evening:For a fantastic night-out, visit the OGB Bar, a stylish and sophisticated venue offering a great selection of cocktails and a lively atmosphere.

Christchurch Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Whitebait Fritters

A renowned Kiwi delicacy, these fritters feature tiny, delicate whitebait fish bound together with egg and lightly seasoned. Enjoy them at Fush, a popular local spot known for its excellent whitebait fritters.

Must-Try!

Pavlova

This iconic dessert, comprised of a meringue base topped with cream and fresh fruit, is a quintessential Kiwi treat. Sample delectable pavlova at Strawberry Fare, a charming dessert-focused cafe.

Hangi

For an authentic Maori culinary experience, don't miss the opportunity to savor hangi. This traditional feast involves cooking meat and vegetables in an earth oven, imparting rich, smoky flavors. Head to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve's Maori cultural experience for an introduction to hangi.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Riccarton Market

Every Sunday, the Riccarton Market offers a delightful array of street food, including succulent barbecued meats, aromatic Asian stir-fries, and a variety of sweet and savory crepes. It's a fantastic spot to sample global flavors while soaking in a lively, bustling atmosphere.

The Night Noodle Market

An annual event in Hagley Park, the Night Noodle Market showcases an extensive selection of Asian street food. From mouthwatering ramen to crispy tempura and flavorful bao buns, the market is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking authentic Asian eats.

Things to do in Christchurch

Unique local experiences...

Pet sitters in Christchurch

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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