Nestled in the guts of the South Island, Christchurch, generally known 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 unprecedented journey by means 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 dwelling since 2015, and it has been up to date for 2024 by The Planet D. So sit again and revel in as we discover all the brand new issues and actions in Christchurch and revisit a number of the previous favorites.
1. Punting on the Avon River
One of the most well-liked actions in Christchurch is to go punting on the Avon River. Hands to coronary heart, Punting on the Avon River Tour is a fairly authentic method 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 generally known as a punt. Dressed in Edwardian apparel, a talented punter takes you slowly by means of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Visitors love to sit again and chill out 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, every single day from 9 am to 6 pm. It prices $30 NZD for adults and $ 15 NZD for teenagers.
2. Ride the Christchurch Gondola
If you’re in search of a number of the greatest views of the 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 world’s volcanic and human historical past, or get pleasure from a chunk on the café with its beautiful vistas. Ideal for households, {couples}, or solo vacationers the Christchurch Gondola offers a singular perspective of the area’s various 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 undoubtedly one of many prime points of interest in Christchurch! They are linked to Hagley Park, the town’s most important –and largest– park. Explore the Rose Garden, New Zealand’s native bush sections and chill out 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 no 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 method to discover the 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 function permits you to discover websites at your individual tempo, making it a perfect alternative for first-time guests and people eager to revisit Christchurch’s highlights.
A day cross usually prices round NZD 35 for adults, (youngsters are free!) providing limitless rides, making it an reasonably priced and handy method to sightsee. The tram drivers usually double as guides, offering informative commentary in regards to 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 pictures of Christchurch, for positive you realize about this cute little pedestrian passage only one road off Cathedral Square! Tourists and locals alike love New Regent Street! Visitors love to sit and watch the tramway cross by whereas having a drink exterior 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 in search of a mixture of buying and eating. This pedestrian-only road is understood for its Spanish Mission-style structure providing a spread of boutique retailers and native eateries.
Visitors can get pleasure from searching distinctive shops, grabbing a espresso at a comfortable café, or eating at one of many road’s eating places. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed stroll, providing a pleasing break from the extra bustling components of the 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 heart brings the icy continent to life with experiences just like the Antarctic Storm simulation, an encounter with reside penguins, and the Hägglund journey, simulating Antarctic journey.
Located close to the airport, this is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Christchurch for households. Walk into the storm dome and really feel the nippiness of Antarctica and revel 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 guts of the Antarctic, providing instructional insights and enjoyable for all ages. Ideal for households or anybody interested by 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 should purchase your tickets in advance right here.
7. Victoria Park and the Port Hills
If you continue to have a little bit of time and vitality left after a busy day, you’ll be able to 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 beautiful sundown spot and climbing space!
Offering a community of trails for climbing, mountain biking, and scenic walks, the Port Hills present beautiful views of the town, the Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps. The space, wealthy in each Maori and European historical past, is well accessible from the town heart, making it an ideal day journey for these looking for 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 sort of adventurer. This pure playground not solely gives bodily actions but in addition serves as a incredible 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 spread of thrilling actions set towards the backdrop of the Port Hills. Renowned for its mountain biking trails, the park caters to all talent ranges, from novices to specialists.
Besides biking, it boasts New Zealand’s longest zipline, offering an exhilarating journey with beautiful views. The park additionally incorporates a café and bar the place you’ll be able to chill out after your adventures. Book a zipline Tour for sweeping views of the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean.
Prices differ primarily based on actions, with bike passes and zipline excursions accessible for buy. Easily accessible from the town heart, it’s an ideal time out for households, teams, or solo adventurers trying 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 at CoCA
Canterbury Museum’s Rolleston Avenue web site is present process a significant redevelopment. The buildings are empty, and the employees have moved out. The Museum has opened a pop-up house on the primary flooring of the CoCA constructing at 66 Gloucester Street that’s getting used whereas their most important constructing on Rolleston Ave is redeveloped, and their heritage buildings are refurbished,
Around half the pop-up Museum is devoted to assortment highlights and customer favourites from the Museum’s everlasting galleries. The different half shows short-term exhibitions. They anticipate to reopen on the authentic web site in late 2028. The pop up house is free to enter, and donations are welcome.
10. Arts Centre of Christchurch
Now guests can take part in many free occasions, guide artful workshops, get a tattoo, hear to a live performance, have a espresso, or simply stroll across the revolutionary retailers.
The Arts Centre in Christchurch is ideal for these looking for a mix of historical past, artwork, and creativity. This Gothic Revival complicated was fantastically restored after the earthquakes and homes a spread of galleries, studios, cinemas, and efficiency areas.
Visitors can get pleasure from a various array of displays, artisan retailers, and weekend markets. Located in the guts of the town, the Arts Centre is a vibrant neighborhood hub, best for artwork lovers and curious vacationers alike. Whether you’re in modern artwork, native crafts, or reside performances, the Arts Centre offers a wealthy, immersive expertise in Christchurch’s dynamic arts scene.
Free entry. Open every single day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm. Make positive to set 1 hour apart on your go to!
11. Christchurch Art Gallery
For virtually 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 short-term lodging for the Christchurch City Council Staff.
It appears laborious 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 flooring 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 means of aviation historical past, good for fanatics and households alike. This museum gives a powerful assortment of plane, from World War I fighters to trendy jets, every with its personal story.
Interactive displays, together with flight simulators, present a hands-on expertise, permitting you to step into the footwear 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 rise 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 the 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 means of the occasions, aftermath, and rebuilding efforts with interactive shows, private tales, and recovered artifacts. It’s a poignant reminder of the town’s resilience.
Located centrally, Quake City is accessible and fascinating for all ages, with an entry charge of round NZD 20 for adults. The exhibition not solely educates about seismic exercise but in addition celebrates the power and innovation of Christchurch in the face of adversity. A go to right here is important for understanding the town’s current historical past and the indomitable spirit of its individuals, making it a major and shifting 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 develop 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, chill out with a guide, and take part in most 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 likely one of the most well-known picture 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 road artwork in Christchurch has develop into one of many coolest actions when strolling round city. After the earthquakes, completely different initiatives gathered artists from New Zealand and abroad to carry the town again to life by means of funky road artwork!
Christchurch is now amongst the 39 Street Art Capitals of the world on the choice curated by the Lonely Planet. Visitors can even use a free interactive map to information the hunt of road 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 way in which up to the Margaret Mahy Playground.
Grassy areas, walkways, bridges, artwork, eateries, pubs and cycle lanes make up this mission that took 5 years to construct and was formally opened in November 2018. This space is shortly changing into a energetic hub for night-owls looking for dancing, reside music, craft beers, and creator cocktails.
19. New Malls and Galleries
Cashel St. has develop into the buying 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 mates and buying.
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 the town, you’ll be able to head to The Heritage Hotel, dwelling 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 reside music. It’s my private favourite!
21. Isaac Royal Theatre
Opened in February 1908, this French Renaissance-style constructing has been internet hosting main exhibits for over 100 years!
It’s normally closed in the course of the day, however contemplating it’s simply meters from Cathedral Square, it’s value to swing by and take a second to respect its façade!
22. Nightlife on Victoria Street
Fine and trendy eating, a secret cocktail bar, the Casino and a Clock Tower. That’s Victoria Street in brief! The chosen spot for these fancying an enormous night time out!
23. Little High Eatery
Opened in May 2017, Little High Eatery has develop into the hippest munching spot in city with an array of worldwide road meals. From South American barbeque to tailored-made burgers and Thai meals, head there should 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 attention-grabbing. During lunch and dinner peak hours you’ll be able to anticipate to be ready in line from 5 to 20 minutes
Little High is situated 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 choice in case you are working 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, completely different tasks in city are centered on sharing these areas with the neighborhood. The Christchurch Slackline crew and GapFiller set to create the brand new and first devoted Slacklining Park in the South Island
Many attention-grabbing issues are occurring thanks to the work of artistic social enterprises like GapFiller. Visiting any of those spots will provide you with a good concept of the artistic 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 means 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 study in regards to the New Zealand earthquakes and likewise, it’s not like you’ll be able to skip it as that is the guts of Central Christchurch! Read: 14 Cool and Fun Facts About New Zealand
27. Margaret Mahy Playground
Opened in December 2015, that is the most important playground in the Southern Hemisphere. Just a ten minutes’ stroll from Cathedral Square, it’s a terrific place to benefit from the nice outdoor. The better part is you don’t want to have the children 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 dwelling and visiting Christchurch. Every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm, of us in city kick-start the weekend with a compulsory go to to the farmers’ market.
If you aren’t round city in the course of 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 guts of an historical volcano. Akaroa gives a mix of historical past, pure magnificence, and culinary delights.
Wander by means 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 retailers or soaking in the beautiful bay views, Akaroa offers a pleasant escape from the town, showcasing a singular slice of New Zealand’s heritage and pure splendor. This picturesque village is a perfect getaway for these trying to expertise the various 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 we now have ‘island weather’ right here, which means that you may expertise many various kinds of climate throughout the identical day. Bring layers of clothes on 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 a lot of the metropolis’s most important points of interest. Riding the tramway is likely one of 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 the town simply over 6 months in the past, they grew to become the following massive factor. Now you’ll be able to see individuals driving –and falling!- on the streets each minute. They are in all places!
Where to Stay in Christchurch
The central metropolis gives quite a lot of lodging choices, from Airbnb flats to totally serviced motel flats and hostels. You can even 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 likely one of 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 primarily based in Christchurch, New Zealand. Her weblog, The Global Curious, conjures up individuals to go on their first abroad journey wholeheartedly and fuelled by curiosity!
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