Things To Do
in Christchurch
Christchurch, New Zealand, often referred to as the 'Garden City', is known for its stunning botanical gardens and vibrant culture. The city has undergone significant redevelopment following the devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, blending historical architecture with modern designs. With the Avon River flowing through its heart, Christchurch offers picturesque landscapes and a host of outdoor activities.
Visitors can enjoy a thriving arts scene, diverse dining options, and friendly locals who embody the spirit of New Zealand hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, followed by a visit to the Canterbury Museum to learn about the region's natural and cultural history.
Head to the Cardboard Cathedral, a unique architectural marvel, and then enjoy lunch at a local café. In the afternoon, explore the trendy Re:START Mall for shopping and local artisan products.
Conclude your day with dinner at a restaurant in the city and enjoy a show or live music at the Isaac Theatre Royal.
Take a morning drive to the Port Hills for breathtaking views over the city and the Canterbury Plains. Consider a short hike or bike ride in the area.
Visit Lyttelton, a charming port town, for lunch and explore local boutiques. After lunch, take a scenic ferry ride across Lyttelton Harbour.
Return to Christchurch for dinner at a local seafood restaurant, followed by a visit to the Christchurch Casino for some entertainment.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a restaurant | $20-$40 |
| ☕Coffee | $4-$6 |
| 🚍Public transport ticket | $3-$5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $80-$150 |
| 🍺Local beer | $8-$12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful gardens and parks.
- Rich cultural experiences and history.
- Access to stunning natural landscapes.
- Public transport may be limited outside the city center.
- Variable weather can affect outdoor plans.
- Some areas are still recovering from earthquake damage.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Tēnā koa" - Please
- "Ngā mihi" - Thank you
- "Aroha mai" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Ka pai" - Good/Well done
Places to Visit in Christchurch
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning area with diverse plant life, picturesque landscapes, and the tranquil Avon River, perfect for nature photography.
An iconic structure built from cardboard and other materials, offering a unique architectural perspective.
Provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, ideal for breathtaking sunset shots.
Food in Christchurch
Christchurch Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Māori dish cooked in an earth oven, featuring meats and root vegetables.
Must-Try!
A meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruits, a must-try New Zealand classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Saturday, this market features fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and live music.
A vibrant food hub with a variety of street food vendors offering international cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
New Zealanders value their natural environment, so be mindful of littering and follow the 'leave no trace' principle.
A friendly greeting and using 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated; Kiwis are known for their hospitality.
Be respectful towards Māori culture and customs, especially in traditional settings or ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Christchurch
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in New Zealand, but it is appreciated for good service, usually around 10-15%.
Most places accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are common; ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for garden visits and outdoor activities.
Warm temperatures and long days are perfect for hiking and beach outings, but be prepared for occasional heatwaves.
Enjoy cooler weather and beautiful foliage as the leaves change color, ideal for photography and outdoor exploration.
Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall in the surrounding hills; great for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.
Christchurch at Night
Hiking in Christchurch
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning coastal hike offering panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, suitable for all skill levels.
A scenic trail that follows the edge of the Port Hills, providing breathtaking vistas of the city and the Canterbury Plains.
Airports
How to reach Christchurch by plane.
Located approximately 10 km from the city center, this airport serves as the main gateway to the South Island, with flights to domestic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous Māori people play a significant role in the culture of Christchurch, contributing to local customs, language, and arts.
The majority of the population is of European descent, reflecting New Zealand's colonial history, with diverse cultural influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A major sport in New Zealand, rugby has a passionate following in Christchurch, with local teams and events throughout the year.
Cricket is also popular, with local clubs and international matches held at Hagley Oval during the summer season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Christchurch.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants provide gluten-free meals, with clear labeling on menus.
There is a growing number of eateries that cater specifically to vegetarian and vegan diets.