Christchurch

New Zealand, Oceania

Christchurch, known as the "Garden City," is famous for its stunning botanical gardens, innovative street art, and the picturesque Avon River that winds through its center. Visitors can explore the vibrant cityscape blending history and modernity, have a drink at the unique container mall, or venture to the nearby Southern Alps for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. Its mix of culture, nature, and remarkable architecture makes it a perfect gateway to the wonders of New Zealand.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Christchurch

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Christchurch

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Botanic Gardens

Stroll through stunning gardens with diverse plant species.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Canterbury Museum

Discover the natural and cultural history of New Zealand.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a punt on the Avon River

Enjoy a relaxing ride on the picturesque Avon River.

Booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Street Art Trail

Discover vibrant murals and urban art around the city.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Christchurch Art Gallery

Admire contemporary art in a stunning modern gallery.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Antarctic Centre

Learn about Antarctica and its wildlife with interactive displays.

No booking required
7

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a day trip to Akaroa

Enjoy French-inspired culture and stunning coastal views.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral

See the unique cardboard cathedral, a symbol of resilience.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy the New Regent Street

Shop and dine in beautifully restored 1930s architecture.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk through the Christchurch Earthquake Memorial

Reflect on the impact of the 2011 earthquake.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the International Antarctic Centre

Experience life in Antarctica through interactive exhibits.

No booking required
12

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Take a Wine Tour in Waipara

Sample award-winning wines in picturesque vineyards.

Booking required
13

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Christchurch Gondola

Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and mountains.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kiwi Pie

Savory pie with meat and vegetables. (National dish)

Hāngi

Traditional Māori dish cooked in earth oven.

Pavlova

V

Meringue dessert topped with fruit and cream.

Fish and Chips

Battered fish served with fries.

Lamingtons

V

Sponge cake coated in chocolate and coconut.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)