Christchurch is an incredible city of contrasts. Explore the booming hospitality scene, amazing street art, and state-of-the-art architecture that has shaped this new city; or take in the historic sights and beautiful English gardens of a city surrounded by nature.
Christchurch is well known for its southern hospitality, from spectacular alfresco riverfront locales to cosy restaurants and pubs, our food scene has the offering and sophistication of a global city, combined with Christchurch’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Try a local drop or two at the Terrace Tavern, set in the popular hospitality strip overlooking the Avon River. Hit the local favourite, Little High, a market place with shared seating, enjoy some of the best burgers in town at OGB or a gelato in the Spanish Mission architectural styled New Regent Street.
Keen for some post-show revelry? The central city is home to an exciting mix of brand new bars and good ol’ favourites.
Head to The Terrace, Christchurch’s newest hospitality area, a great mix of chilled craft beer bars, intimate cocktail lounges, and nightclubs.
Once you’ve eaten and drank your fill, make the most of the huge range of activities Christchurch has on offer while you’re in town.
Make sure you spend the day exploring the central city’s retail precinct and the wide range of boutiques and contemporary retail spaces, from local shops to global chain stores. You'll find high end fashion mixed with well-loved favourites; everything from homewares to cosmetics, local fashion and top international brands to beautifully handcrafted jewellery.
For a night of excitement visit the Casino or one of the many others bars and restaurants along Victoria Street.
Take a step back in time and relax with that someone special on a punt down the river or the Christchurch Tram.
Walk through the Botanic Gardens and dine alfresco along the Avon River or take a walking tour of the brand-new city and check out the ever-changing street art scene.
Head to the famous Christchurch Adventure Park and hit one of the many mountain biking tracks, or take in the epic city views from the longest zipline in New Zealand.
Hit the surf at Sumner Beach and take it all in with a cold one along the waterfront. Or for stunning 360° views from 500 metres above sea level visit the Gondola where you can gaze across the sparkling cityscape of Christchurch, over the Canterbury Plains to the high peaks of the Southern Alps.
The Canterbury region has the most diverse range of experiences in New Zealand. All only a short distance from Christchurch – these are the perfect ways to spend that extra day:
Kaikoura is a nature-lovers’ paradise. Encounter whales, dolphins, fur seals and giant albatross by boat, helicopter or plane. This is also the best place to enjoy seafood in New Zealand!
Wine tasting and thermal pools sound like a bit of you? Hanmer Springs and the Waipara Valley are a great place to relax. Need more adrenalin? You can also bungy jump or satisfy your need for speed with Alpine Jet Thrills jet boat. Pay homage to the kings of speed in the birthplace of the jetboat!
Travel to New Zealand’s beautiful French village, Akaroa. This picturesque seaside town is only a short drive away over the epic Banks Peninsula.
