Things To Do
in Christchurch
Christchurch sits on the eastern edge of New Zealand's South Island, blending expansive green spaces with a forward-thinking urban reinvention. Known as the Garden City, it showcases Botanic Gardens, river paths, and a growing arts and dining scene. Since the 2010-2011 earthquakes, the city has rebuilt with open plazas, innovative architecture, and a resilient community spirit.
Visitors can enjoy nearby coastlines, Port Hills views, and a welcoming, easygoing atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
You land at Christchurch International Airport and feel the fresh cool air of the Canterbury Plains. The shuttle whisks you to your boutique hotel in the cultural heart of the city. You settle into your room and gaze out at the emerging skyline.
After a light brunch at Riverside Market you stroll along the Avon River and watch punts glide by. You wander through the revamped Cathedral Square and learn about its resilient red zone regeneration. Local cafés and galleries invite you in for a closer look at the city’s creative spirit.
As dusk falls you dine at a cozy bistro on Victoria Street, sampling Canterbury lamb and crisp Sauvignon Blanc. You take a leisurely walk along the illuminated Avon River precinct and enjoy the reflective water. The gentle hum of the city at night after a day of travel and discovery lulls you into anticipation for tomorrow.
You wander through Hagley Park at sunrise as blossoms and exotic trees glow golden. You pause at the Rose Garden and inhale the heady scent before heading to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for a guided horticultural tour. The tranquil setting feels like an oasis of calm in the city.
You climb aboard a classic wooden punt and drift down the Avon River, guided by a local punter who shares stories of early settlers. The gentle oars create ripples that dance with reflections of the leafy banks. You disembark near the Canterbury Museum, stepping inside to explore Māori artifacts and natural history exhibits.
You return to your hotel to freshen up before heading to a riverside restaurant overlooking the water. The menu features contemporary New Zealand cuisine with wild-caught seafood and seasonal produce. Soft jazz drifts through the room as you toast your first full day of exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport monthly pass | $120-150 |
| 🏥GP or doctor visit | $60-120 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly basics) | $80-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful parks, rivers, and close-to-nature access
- Centrally located base for day trips to Banks Peninsula and the coast
- Friendly locals and a resilient, creative city vibe
- Strong café culture, markets, and gradually expanding nightlife
- Weather can be unpredictable and windy
- Nightlife is growing but still quieter than larger cities
- Some areas are still rebuilding; tourist services can vary by season
- Public transit coverage is solid in the city but limited outside the core
- "Kia ora" - Hello / thank you
- "Tēnā koe" - Greetings (to one person)
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Mō rena" - Good afternoon
- "Ngā mihi" - Thanks / best regards
- "Ae" - Yes
Places to Visit in Christchurch
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking, sustainable structure built after the earthquakes; an iconic backdrop for architectural and documentary photography.
A historic arch spanning the Avon with morning light and riverside reflections ideal for composition and portrait shots.
Expansive themed gardens, tranquil ponds, and seasonal blooms offering vibrant color and serene scenes.
Panoramic city and coast views from elevated ridges; perfect for sweeping landscape shots and golden-hour lighting.
Food in Christchurch
Christchurch Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Maori earth-oven cooked meat and vegetables slowly steamed for smoky, communal flavors; often featured at cultural events and special menus.
Must-Try!
Golden, delicate fritters made with fresh whitebait; a cherished seasonal treat commonly found at local eateries in spring.
A crisp meringue dessert with a soft interior, typically topped with whipped cream and berries; a NZ icon often enjoyed after meals or at gatherings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively central hub along the Avon River with a range of stalls, cafes, and casual dining options.
A charming market on weekends in the port town offering fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods with a local vibe.
A producer-focused market showcasing regional fruit, vegetables, meat, cheese, and street-style bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A common greeting; friendly small talk is appreciated. Polynesian and Māori phrases are welcomed and respectful when used.
Be mindful of local tikanga (customs) and ask permission before photographing people in some contexts; show courtesy in sacred or cultural spaces.
New Zealanders value politeness, punctuality, and orderly queues; wait your turn and be patient in busy areas.
Safety
Tipping in Christchurch
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand, but good service may merit a small gesture. Some venues include service charges; otherwise rounding up is common in casual settings.
Card payments (including contactless) are widely accepted, with EFTPOS available. Cash is accepted in most places, though cards are predominant.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, mild to warm temperatures, and outdoor events. Bring sun protection and a light layer for cooler evenings; occasional strong winds.
Crimson and gold foliage with pleasant temperatures. Riverside walks and markets are especially enjoyable in this shoulder season.
Cool and windy, with occasional frost and rare snowfall. Indoor attractions like museums and galleries offer warmth and culture.
Flowering gardens and improving weather with variable conditions. Great time for outdoor activities and photographic blooms.
Christchurch at Night
Hiking in Christchurch
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails offering sweeping views of the city and sea; varying difficulty levels.
Coastal cliffs, historic military sites, and dramatic seascapes along the shore.
Forest-lined ascent with rewarding vistas; connects with Port Hills routes.
A scenic coastal hike nearby with wildlife spotting and standout viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Christchurch by plane.
Main international gateway to the South Island; well-connected to Australia and Asia, with domestic routes to regional centers and car hire services; easy access to the city by taxi or shuttle.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically the largest group with growing diversity thanks to Asian and Pacific communities.
Part of the region’s cultural fabric with ongoing efforts to celebrate language and heritage.
Smaller but contributing to the city’s cultural diversity.
A growing demographic contributing to business, cuisine, and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A deeply rooted sport in the region with local clubs and matches at various venues.
Hagley Oval hosts domestic and international fixtures in a scenic riverside setting.
Active community and regional competitions with venues around the city.
Local leagues and training clubs with fields across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Christchurch.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available across cafes and restaurants; look for veggie mains, salads, and veggie-forward bowls. Many places can adapt dishes on request.
Vegan choices are increasingly common; ask staff about plant-based mains, dairy-free soups, and vegan desserts. Cross-contact practices vary by venue.
Gluten-free options are available in most venues; it’s wise to notify staff about gluten intolerance and confirm cross-contamination measures when ordering.