One of New Zealand’s largest cities and the gateway to the South Island, Christchurch is known as the “Garden City” for good reason. Its parks and gardens, including the expansive Hagley Park and Mona Vale on the banks of the River Avon, are a point of pride for locals. The city has transformed itself following the 2011 earthquake, when much of the center and its classical neo-Gothic architecture was destroyed. Old buildings are being rebuilt and repaired and new complexes are cropping up. Visitors will find an ever-changing city with an innovative edge as residents make the most of the opportunities presented following the disaster. Look out for plenty of new restaurants, cafés and boutiques to explore.It’s easy to get around Christchurch by tram, ferry and bicycle, or on foot. Cycle along the riverbank, enjoy an array of shopping and dining options and take a stroll around lively markets. Christchurch Farmers' Market is on each Saturday and offers local produce and great coffee. In summer, cool off at the beautiful New Brighton beach nearby or take a trip to scenic Lyttelton Harbour.The city comes alive with color twice a year when it hosts two popular festivals. The annual Festival of Flowers is held in February and the Ellerslie International Flower Show is every March. Christchurch is popular with adventure seekers looking to explore the surrounding countryside. It’s one of a few cities in the world where just 15 minutes from downtown you can hike up mountain trails or surf a wave at the beach. Other activities offered close to Christchurch include hot air ballooning, mountain biking, rafting and whale watching. There are several internationally acclaimed wineries nearby, as well as a world-class ski resort. Book tours and rent a car and equipment in town, then grab a map and hit the highway.
Christchurch
Where to stay in Christchurch
Christchurch City Centre
Christchurch City Centre is a destination visitors seek out for is abundant dining options, interesting museums, and colorful gardens. You might want to check out attractions like Christchurch Art Gallery or Cathedral Square while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Christchurch Airport
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Christchurch Airport and surrounding area, you can visit International Antarctic Centre and McLean's Island Golf Club.
Riccarton
A noteworthy feature of Riccarton is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.
Addington
Unique features of Addington include the theaters and live music. Make a stop by Orangetheory Stadium or Addington Raceway while you're exploring the area.
Merivale
Merivale is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Merivale Mall or Papanui Road.
Lyttelton
You'll enjoy the sandy beaches and museums in Lyttelton. You might want to make time for a stop at Lyttelton Harbour or Lyttelton Farmers Market.
Reviewed on 20 May 2024
Reviewed on 20 May 2024
Reviewed on 19 May 2024
Reviewed on 13 May 2024
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2024
Reviewed on 17 May 2024
Getting around Christchurch
The Christchurch Metro is the name given to the city’s bus system, which is a cheap and efficient way of getting around the city center and beyond. If you’re staying around the city center, it’s possible to walk between many attractions, or you can take the atmospheric Christchurch Tramway, a restored vintage streetcar which runs in a loop around downtown. Christchurch is very flat, making cycling popular. Visit the Metro Christchurch website.Browse Christchurch rental cars.
Best time to visit
Christchurch sees four distinct seasons over the course of the year, each offering something different to travelers. Winter is chilly but not overly cold, with average high temperatures in the mid 50s F (around 12 C), and this is the time to visit to enjoy Christchurch’s ski areas and snowy mountains. Spring, summer and fall are pleasantly mild, all perfect for countryside hiking and city exploration.
Popular places to visit
Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
New Brighton Beach
Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.
Sumner Beach
The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.
Hagley Park
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.
Mona Vale
Stroll around idyllic riverside gardens filled with roses, irises and other plantings and take a break on the lush green lawns at this public park.
Cathedral Square
You can learn about the history of Christchurch when you stop by Cathedral Square. Visit the cathedral in this walkable area, or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do
5-Day Great Southern Circle Tour from Christchurch
3-Day Great Southern Circle Tour from Christchurch
V8 Trike Private Tour of Christchurch
Beautiful Scottish city, Dunedin private tour 3D2N
Akaroa Cruise Excursion - Christchurch Sightseeing & Jetboating
Christchurch: Godley Head & Lyttelton Guided Walking Tour
Reviews of Christchurch
5/5 - Excellent
Christchurch is a beautiful, diverse and resilient community.
3/5 - Okay
Under the circumstances difficult to make many comments but from driving around it looked a pleasant place.
5/5 - Excellent
A beautiful city that is incredibly resilient.
4/5 - Good
We weren't there nearly long enough. We enjoyed riding the trolley, the Botanical Gardens, and the Earthquake Museum. It's a lovely city for strolling.
5/5 - Excellent
Great!
4/5 - Good
Downtown Christchurch, while still recovering from earthquake damage, is clean and filled with great restaurants and boutique shopping.
Other places like Christchurch
- Lyttelton Harbour
- Sumner Beach
- New Brighton Beach
- Christchurch Public Hospital
- Hagley Park
- Te Pae Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Christchurch Casino
- Westfield Riccarton Mall
- Cathedral Square
- Christchurch Gondola
- Mona Vale
- International Antarctic Centre
- St George's Hostpital
- Canterbury Museum
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens
- New Regent Street
- Papanui Road
- Orana Wildlife Park
- Bealey Avenue
- Riverside Market
- Christchurch Art Gallery
- Air Force Museum of New Zealand
- Ferrymead Heritage Park