Overview

Christchurch, the Garden City of Aotearoa, blends urban charm with stunning natural scenery. Rebuilt with creativity and resilience, it offers leafy parks, revamped cultural precincts and a network of bike trails. Visitors can savour café culture, wander riverside gardens and embrace adventure, all within easy reach of the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps.

Food & Drink

  • Riverside cafés and bars: Explore Ōtākaro Avon River precinct spots like Riverside Market and The Terrace for artisan coffee, craft beer and local produce.
  • Christchurch Farmers’ Market: Held every Saturday at Riccarton House, offering seasonal fruits, organic goodies and gourmet treats.
  • Winery day trip: Head to Waipara Valley (45 min north) for boutique vineyards and cellar-door experiences amidst rolling vines.
  • Food tours: Join a guided tour exploring the city’s multicultural eateries in Sydenham and Merivale.

Adventure & Wilderness

  • Cycle the Ōtākaro Avon River trail or explore the Port Hills’ mountain biking tracks with panoramic views over Christchurch and the Southern Alps.
  • Kayak or punt along the Avon River through city parks and leafy suburbs.
  • Day hike in the Port Hills: try the Bridle Path or Crater Rim Walkway for striking vistas.
  • Take a jet-boat tour on the Waimakariri River for thrills through braided river canyons.

Highlights for All

  • Christchurch Botanic Gardens: Stroll through themed gardens, heritage trees and riverside walks.
  • Canterbury Museum & Quake City: Learn about regional history and the resilience following the 2010–11 earthquakes.
  • Christchurch Gondola: Ride high above Lyttelton Harbour for incredible views and optional walks.
  • International Antarctic Centre: Experience polar storms, meet huskies and learn about Antarctic science.

Shopping

  • Re:START Mall & Riverside Market: Quirky shipping-container shops, local art and street food by the Avon River.
  • Christchurch Artisan Market: Pop-up events showcasing NZ-made crafts, jewellery and homewares.
  • Merivale enclave: Browse boutique fashion, home décor and specialty food stores.

Photography

  • Avon River & Botanic Gardens: Reflections, heritage bridges and lush plantings.
  • Urban street art: Around New Regent Street and the Container Mall, showcasing Christchurch’s creative vibe.
  • Lyttelton Harbour views from Gondola summit: Golden-hour shots over sea and hills.
  • Port Hills sunsets: Capture panoramic twilight scenes over the city.

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Perfect for river cruises, picnics and outdoor dining.
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Cooler temps, autumnal foliage in Botanic Gardens and Port Hills.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Quieter city, cosy cafés, and nearby snowy adventures in the Southern Alps.
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Gardens burst into bloom, farmers’ markets return and temperate hiking weather.

Explore Nearby

  • Akaroa: Coastal village with French heritage, wildlife cruises and harbour kayaking (short drive via State Highway 75).
  • Waipara Valley: Boutique wineries just 45 minutes north, ideal for a relaxed tasting day.
  • Arthur’s Pass: Alpine gateway offering hiking, waterfalls and native forest, ~2 hours west by car.