Nestled in the center of the South Island, Christchurch, referred to as the ‘Garden City’ is a scorching spot for adventurers and cultural aficionados alike. From punting down the serene Avon River to exploring the panoramic vistas of the Port Hills, this information unveisl the highest issues to do in Christchurch. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a historical past buff, or a nature lover, prepare to embark on a rare journey by way of one in every of New Zealand’s most picturesque and dynamic cities.
The Best Things to do in Christchurch, NZ
This information was initially written by Melissa Grossi, an ex-pat who has made Christchurch her house since 2015, and it has been up to date for 2024 by The Planet D. So sit again and luxuriate in as we discover all the brand new issues and actions in Christchurch and revisit a few of the outdated favorites.
1. Punting on the Avon River
One of the preferred actions in Christchurch is to go punting on the Avon River. Hands to coronary heart, Punting on the Avon River Tour is a fairly unique approach to go sightseeing and is an iconic place to go to in Christchurch!
What is punting on the Avon River? It’s a gondola journey on a ship referred to as a punt. Dressed in Edwardian apparel, a talented punter takes you slowly by way of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Visitors love to sit again and calm down on their punts as they go for a gondola journey whereas watching the wildlife and surroundings alongside the Avon River.
Tours depart from 2 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central, day-after-day from 9 am to 6 pm. It prices $30 NZD for adults and $ 15 NZD for youths.
2. Ride the Christchurch Gondola
If you might be on the lookout for a few of the greatest views of town and the Canterbury Plains the Christchurch Gondola is a must-do. This scenic journey takes you to the summit of the Port Hills, providing a 360-degree panorama that features the Southern Alps and Lyttelton Harbour. Get your gondola tickets in advance right here.
At the highest, discover the Time Tunnel exhibit, detailing the realm’s volcanic and human historical past, or get pleasure from a chunk on the café with its gorgeous vistas. Ideal for households, {couples}, or solo vacationers the Christchurch Gondola offers a singular perspective of the area’s numerous landscapes, making it a standout attraction in any Christchurch journey itinerary.
3. Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are an all-time basic and positively one of many prime points of interest in Christchurch! They are related to Hagley Park, town’s major –and largest– park. Explore the Rose Garden, New Zealand’s native bush sections and calm down by one of many many secret benches surrounding the lakes.
The entrance is free. Over the winter months, the gate’s closing time is 6.30 pm. Otherwise, it’s 8.30 pm or 9 pm. Devote not less than one hour to discover the numerous areas and gardens of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
4. Ride the Christchurch Tram
Riding the Christchurch Tram gives a singular and satisfying approach to discover town’s key points of interest. This historic tramway, with its fantastically restored trams, takes you on a loop round Christchurch, passing landmarks like Cathedral Square, the Avon River, and the Arts Centre. The hop-on, hop-off characteristic permits you to discover websites at your personal tempo, making it a super alternative for first-time guests and people eager to revisit Christchurch’s highlights.
A day go sometimes prices round NZD 35 for adults, (youngsters are free!) providing limitless rides, making it an inexpensive and handy approach to sightsee. The tram drivers usually double as guides, offering informative commentary concerning the metropolis’s historical past and factors of curiosity. The Christchurch Tram expertise isn’t just a mode of transportation however an attraction in itself, completely mixing historic appeal with sensible metropolis touring.
5. New Regent Street
If you’ve ever seen photographs of Christchurch, for certain about this cute little pedestrian passage only one avenue off Cathedral Square! Tourists and locals alike love New Regent Street! Visitors love to sit and watch the tramway go by whereas having a drink outdoors one of many many cafés and wine bars that line New Regent Street.
New Regent Street in Christchurch is a good vacation spot for vacationers on the lookout for a mixture of purchasing and eating. This pedestrian-only avenue is understood for its Spanish Mission-style structure providing a variety of boutique outlets and native eateries.
Visitors can get pleasure from shopping distinctive shops, grabbing a espresso at a comfy café, or eating at one of many avenue’s eating places. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed stroll, providing a pleasing break from the extra bustling elements of town. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or simply need to soak in the native ambiance, New Regent Street is a must-visit in Christchurch.
6. Visit the International Antarctic Centre
The International Antarctic Centre is a prime attraction for these in the wonders of the Antarctic. This interactive middle brings the icy continent to life with experiences just like the Antarctic Storm simulation, an encounter with stay penguins, and the Hägglund journey, simulating Antarctic journey.
Located close to the airport, this is among the greatest issues to do in Christchurch for households. Walk into the storm dome and really feel the chilliness of Antarctica and luxuriate in its 4D cinema. And finish with a go to to work together with huskies. You’ll have the chance to snuggle and pet the fluffy Huskies that explorers traditionally used to pull their Antarctic dogsleds.
The International Antarctic Center isn’t just an exhibit; it’s a hands-on journey into the center of the Antarctic, providing instructional insights and enjoyable for all ages. Ideal for households or anybody interested in polar exploration, the International Antarctic Centre is a must-see in Christchurch. Whether you’re braving the indoor storm or studying about Antarctic wildlife, it’s an unforgettable addition to your Christchurch itinerary. You can buy your tickets in advance right here.
7. Victoria Park and the Port Hills
If you continue to have a little bit of time and power left after a busy day, you may head to Victoria Park, up in the Port Hills. It’s probably the greatest actions in Christchurch for sundown. Just a quarter-hour’ drive from Central Christchurch separates this gorgeous sundown spot and mountain climbing space!
Offering a community of trails for mountain climbing, mountain biking, and scenic walks, the Port Hills present gorgeous views of town, the Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps. The space, wealthy in each Maori and European historical past, is well accessible from town middle, making it an ideal day journey for these in search of a pure escape.
Popular spots just like the Bridle Path and the Summit Road supply various levels of issue for all health ranges. Whether you’re after a leisurely stroll or a difficult bike journey, the Port Hills cater to each kind of adventurer. This pure playground not solely gives bodily actions but additionally serves as a improbable spot for pictures, picnics, and easily having fun with the panoramic vistas of Christchurch and its environment.
8. Christchurch Adventure Park
The Christchurch Adventure Park is a thrill-seeker’s paradise, providing a variety of thrilling actions set in opposition to the backdrop of the Port Hills. Renowned for its mountain biking trails, the park caters to all talent ranges, from rookies to consultants.
Besides biking, it boasts New Zealand’s longest zipline, offering an exhilarating journey with gorgeous views. The park additionally contains a café and bar the place you may calm down after your adventures. Book a zipline Tour for sweeping views of the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean.
Prices fluctuate based mostly on actions, with bike passes and zipline excursions obtainable for buy. Easily accessible from town middle, it’s an ideal time out for households, teams, or solo adventurers wanting to add some adrenaline to their Christchurch go to. Whether you’re hitting the paths or hovering over treetops, the Christchurch Adventure Park guarantees a memorable and action-packed expertise. You may additionally like: Where to Go Bungy Jumping in New Zealand
9. Canterbury Museum
Another basic of the Christchurch points of interest is the museum was one of many few spots individuals might go to, not less than partially, after the earthquakes. It absolutely reopened in 2013.
Entrance is free, although donations are inspired! The Museum opens day-after-day from 9 am to 5 or 5.30 pm.
10. Arts Centre of Christchurch
Now guests can take part in many free occasions, guide artful workshops, get a tattoo, pay attention to a live performance, have a espresso, or simply stroll across the revolutionary outlets.
The Arts Centre in Christchurch is ideal for these in search of a mix of historical past, artwork, and creativity. This Gothic Revival complicated was fantastically restored after the earthquakes and homes a variety of galleries, studios, cinemas, and efficiency areas.
Visitors can get pleasure from a various array of displays, artisan outlets, and weekend markets. Located in the center of town, the Arts Centre is a vibrant group hub, best for artwork lovers and curious vacationers alike. Whether you’re in modern artwork, native crafts, or stay performances, the Arts Centre offers a wealthy, immersive expertise in Christchurch’s dynamic arts scene.
Free entry. Open day-after-day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm. Make certain to set 1 hour apart in your go to!
11. Christchurch Art Gallery
For nearly 5 years, the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhet was closed to the general public. Until its grand reopening in 2015 after intensive constructing repairs, it was serving as emergency headquarters and momentary lodging for the Christchurch City Council Staff.
It appears onerous to think about the early days now as one wanders the spacious halls stuffed with modern displays in such a peaceable setting.
Free guided 45-60 minutes excursions depart from the entrance desk on the bottom ground every day at 11 am and a couple of pm.
The gallery opens from 10 am to 5 pm every day and hosts weekly occasions.
12. Visit the Air Force Museum of New Zealand
A go to to the Air Force Museum of New Zealand in Christchurch is a journey by way of aviation historical past, good for fanatics and households alike. This museum gives a formidable assortment of plane, from World War I fighters to fashionable jets, every with its personal story.
Interactive displays, together with flight simulators, present a hands-on expertise, permitting you to step into the sneakers of a pilot. The museum additionally pays homage to New Zealand’s Air Force heritage, providing insights into the nation’s army aviation historical past. With free entry, it’s a budget-friendly and academic outing, best for these in plane and army historical past. The Air Force Museum presents a singular alternative to stand up shut with aviation legends, making it a notable addition to your Christchurch itinerary.
13. Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial
On February 2017, the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial opened to the general public as a part of the Sixth-anniversary commemoration occasions.
The memorial remembers the 185 individuals who misplaced their lives and the survivors of the devastating earthquakes that shook town to its core.
14. Quake City
Quake City gives a compelling and academic expertise, offering insights into the impactful earthquake of 2011. Thiscurated exhibition takes guests by way of the occasions, aftermath, and rebuilding efforts with interactive shows, private tales, and recovered artifacts. It’s a poignant reminder of town’s resilience.
Located centrally, Quake City is accessible and fascinating for all ages, with an entry payment of round NZD 20 for adults. The exhibition not solely educates about seismic exercise but additionally celebrates the power and innovation of Christchurch in the face of adversity. A go to right here is important for understanding town’s latest historical past and the indomitable spirit of its individuals, making it a big and transferring addition to any Christchurch itinerary.
15. Turanga City Library
The newest and most revolutionary growth in Christchurch’s CBD is Turanga, the brand new metropolis library. Since its opening in 2018, the Turanga Library has turn into one of many absolute should go to Christchurch points of interest for individuals round city. Stop by for a cuppa, climb the ‘Harry Potter Stairs’, get pleasure from panoramic metropolis views, calm down with a guide, and take part in lots of the workshops!
Turanga is open from 9 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday and 10 am to 5 pm Saturdays and Sundays. Free 45 minutes guided excursions are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am.
16. Bridge of Remembrance
Built throughout 1923 to commemorate the New Zealand troopers who fought abroad throughout WWI, the bridge was reopened after the earthquake repairs in April 2016. This is among the most well-known photograph spots in city!
Just meters from the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial, it marks the start of the model new promenade stroll. Rest assured you gained’t miss it!
17. Explore the City’s Street Art
Hunting for world-class avenue artwork in Christchurch has turn into one of many coolest actions when strolling round city. After the earthquakes, totally different initiatives gathered artists from New Zealand and abroad to convey town again to life by way of funky avenue artwork!
Christchurch is now amongst the 39 Street Art Capitals of the world on the choice curated by the Lonely Planet. Visitors may also use a free interactive map to information the hunt of avenue artwork round city.
18. Central Christchurch’s Avon Riverside Promenade
Starting on Oxford’s Terrace, the brand new riverside Promenade extends alongside 2 km following the Avon River all the best way up to the Margaret Mahy Playground.
Grassy areas, walkways, bridges, artwork, eateries, pubs and cycle lanes make up this challenge that took 5 years to construct and was formally opened in November 2018. This space is shortly changing into a full of life hub for night-owls trying to find dancing, stay music, craft beers, and writer cocktails.
19. New Malls and Galleries
Cashel St. has turn into the purchasing coronary heart of Central Christchurch. New markets, malls, and worldwide outfitters are opening each few months.
The BNZ Centre and The Crossing are the latest and brightest spots for grabbing lunch, having a espresso with pals and purchasing.
Though these new developments didn’t come controversy-free! People nonetheless miss the well-known Re: Start Container Mall that was torn aside not that way back.
20. The O.G.B. at The Heritage Hotel
If you fancy a drink and a platter after an extended day scouring town, you may head to The Heritage Hotel, house of the O.G.B. Bar Lounge.
Recognized as one of many prime bars in city, the constructing is value a go to by itself. It has nice ambiance, 1930’s décor type, and stay music. It’s my private favourite!
21. Isaac Royal Theatre
Opened in February 1908, this French Renaissance-style constructing has been internet hosting main reveals for over 100 years!
It’s normally closed through the day, however contemplating it’s simply meters from Cathedral Square, it’s value to swing by and take a second to admire its façade!
22. Nightlife on Victoria Street
Fine and fashionable eating, a secret cocktail bar, the Casino and a Clock Tower. That’s Victoria Street in brief! The chosen spot for these fancying a giant evening out!
23. Little High Eatery
Opened in May 2017, Little High Eatery has turn into the hippest munching spot in city with an array of worldwide avenue meals. From South American barbeque to tailored-made burgers and Thai meals, head there when you’d like to expertise one of many native’s prime spots!
The place itself is value a go to as its set in an space of the CBD that also has lots of rebuilding works forward! In my opinion, that makes it much more fascinating. During lunch and dinner peak hours you may anticipate to be ready in line from 5 to 20 minutes
Little High is positioned on 255 St Asaph Street, 4 blocks from Cathedral Square. Open from 8 am to 11 pm over weekends (10 pm on weekdays). It’s a great choice in case you are operating late for dinner. Most locations in city name it quits round 9ish!
Central Christchurch nonetheless has many streets and areas that haven’t been rebuilt. Far from being intimidated or annoyed by it, totally different initiatives in city are centered on sharing these areas with the group. The Christchurch Slackline crew and GapFiller set to create the brand new and first devoted Slacklining Park in the South Island
Many fascinating issues are occurring thanks to the work of inventive social enterprises like GapFiller. Visiting any of those spots offers you a good thought of the inventive breeze spreading out throughout city!
25. Sign of the Bellbird
Hiking to the Sign of the Bellbird a should go to for panoramic views of the Canterbury Plains, Ohinetahi Reserve, and Lyttelton Harbour. This iconic path winds by way of lush landscapes, main you to an awe-inspiring vantage level the place the vastness of the Canterbury Plains unfolds earlier than your eyes
It’s an accessible journey for all ranges of hikers as you climb the two.5 mile (4 km) path main to a panoramic spot that showcases the expansive fantastic thing about the plains., Lyttelton Peninsula, the Southern Alps and the Banks Peninsula.
26. Cathedral Square
The Christchurch cathedral has lengthy been one of many prime points of interest in Christchurch. Sadly it was destroyed in the earthquake. I don’t imply to disappoint you, however the Cathedral nonetheless stands in ruins. It is now scheduled to be rebuilt by 2027.
It’s nonetheless value visiting to be taught concerning the New Zealand earthquakes and in addition, it’s not like you may skip it as that is the center of Central Christchurch! Read: 14 Cool and Fun Facts About New Zealand
27. Margaret Mahy Playground
Opened in December 2015, that is the biggest playground in the Southern Hemisphere. Just a ten minutes’ stroll from Cathedral Square, it’s an important place to benefit from the nice outside. The better part is you don’t want to have the youngsters in tow to get pleasure from it! Everyone is welcome right here!
28. Riccarton Bush Saturday Farmer’s Market
The Saturday Farmers Market is a basic weekend plan for individuals residing and visiting Christchurch. Every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm, people in city kick-start the weekend with a compulsory go to to the farmers’ market.
If you aren’t round city through the weekend, head to the Riccarton Bush, the place the market takes place. Visit the Victorian Riccarton House, the Rose Garden, and Deans Cottage. Though this isn’t in Central Christchurch, it’s simply 3 km away!
29. Day Trip to Akaroa
Christchurch is a good place to make a base for locating the South Island of New Zealand. There are many issues to do from Christchurch and listed below are our prime concepts.
A day journey to Akaroa is a should when visiting Christchurch. Just a scenic 90-minute drive away, this charming French and British settlement is nestled in the center of an historical volcano. Akaroa gives a mix of historical past, pure magnificence, and culinary delights.
Wander by way of its colonial structure, get pleasure from a harbor cruise to spot the uncommon Hector’s dolphins, or relish native delicacies in a waterfront café. Whether you’re exploring its boutique outlets or soaking in the gorgeous bay views, Akaroa offers a pleasant escape from town, showcasing a singular slice of New Zealand’s heritage and pure splendor. This picturesque village is a perfect getaway for these wanting to expertise the varied choices of the Canterbury area.
When to go to Christchurch
Christchurch is an all-year-round vacation spot for these visiting New Zealand. Beware although that now we have ‘island weather’ right here, that means you can expertise many several types of climate throughout the identical day. Bring layers of clothes in your go to, whatever the season!
Getting round Christchurch
Most of the locations I’ve shared in this information are reachable inside strolling distance. That stated, I’d like to level out the two favourite methods to get round Central Christchurch!
The Christchurch Tramway – The well-known heritage tramway prices $ 35 NZD for adults and stops in many of the metropolis’s major points of interest. Riding the tramway is among the should do actions in Christchurch in its personal proper.
Get a Lime Scooter! – Affordable and quick, all you want it to obtain the app, put your info and scan the QR code! Since the Lime Scooters have been launched into town simply over 6 months in the past, they turned the subsequent large factor. Now you may see individuals driving –and falling!- on the streets each minute. They are in every single place!
Where to Stay in Christchurch
The central metropolis gives quite a lot of lodging choices, from Airbnb residences to absolutely serviced motel residences and hostels. You may also discover good lodging in the areas surrounding Hagley Park.
My private favourite place to keep in Christchurch is Riccarton, the neighborhood you attain when heading west from Central Christchurch. Search inns in this Christchurch neighborhood.
The Mayfair is among the most extremely rated inns in Christchurch. See charges and availability on Booking.com
This article was originall written by Martina Grossi, an Argentinian journey and ex-pat blogger based mostly in Christchurch, New Zealand. Her weblog, The Global Curious, evokes individuals to go on their first abroad journey wholeheartedly and fuelled by curiosity!
Read More about New Zealand