Nature & Outdoor Attractions
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Description
A 21-hectare haven featuring diverse plant collections, conservatories, and serene walking paths along the Avon River.
Explore the Gardens
Hagley Park
Description
Christchurch’s largest urban park, offering expansive green spaces, walking trails, and proximity to the Botanic Gardens and Canterbury Museum.
Visit Hagley Park
Christchurch Gondola
Description
A scenic cable car ride to the summit of Mount Cavendish, providing panoramic views of the city, Canterbury Plains, and Lyttelton Harbour.
Ride the Gondola
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Description
A sanctuary dedicated to New Zealand’s native wildlife, including kiwi, tuatara, and the endangered takahē.
Discover Willowbank
Taylor’s Mistake
Description
A scenic coastal bay between Sumner and Godley Head, known for surf-friendly waves, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful walking tracks.
Explore Taylor’s Mistake
Lyttelton Harbour
Description
A historic port town nestled in a volcanic crater, offering harbourside cafés, boutique shops, and stunning views. Gateway to scenic cruises and marine wildlife.
Discover Lyttelton Harbour
New Brighton
Description
A revitalised seaside suburb featuring a long sandy beach, the iconic New Brighton Pier, and a modern beachside hot pools complex.
Visit New Brighton
Sumner Beach
Description
A charming seaside village 20 minutes from central Christchurch, featuring a sandy beach perfect for swimming and surfing.
Explore Sumner Beach
Akaroa
Description
A picturesque French-influenced harbour town known for its historic charm, dolphin-watching cruises, and coastal landscapes.
Discover Akaroa
Hanmer Springs
Description
A scenic alpine village famous for natural hot pools, forest walks, jet boating, and mountain biking.
Visit Hanmer Springs
Porters Ski Area
Description
The closest ski resort to Christchurch, offering slopes for all levels, terrain parks, and beautiful alpine views.
Visit Porters Alpine Resort
Culture & History
Canterbury Museum
Description
Offers exhibits on Māori heritage, early European settlers, and Antarctic exploration, including the “Quake City” exhibit on the 2010/2011 earthquakes.
Learn More
Quake City
Description
An interactive exhibition about the 2010–2011 Christchurch earthquakes. Features personal stories, artifacts, and the science behind the quakes.
Visit Quake City
Bridge of Remembrance
Description
A war memorial dedicated to New Zealand's fallen soldiers, located at the head of City Mall, symbolizing sacrifice and remembrance.
Visit the Bridge
New Regent Street
Description
A pastel-hued Spanish Mission-style shopping street with boutique shops, cafés, and the historic Christchurch Tram passing through.
Visit New Regent Street
Ōtākaro Avon River Red Zone
Description
A vast green corridor reclaimed after the earthquakes, now featuring walking and cycling paths, ecological restoration, and community gardens.
Explore the Red Zone
Family & Fun
Christchurch Tram
Description
A hop-on-hop-off heritage tram ride through the city, passing landmarks like Cathedral Square and the Margaret Mahy Family Playground.
Ride the Tram
International Antarctic Centre
Description
An interactive experience showcasing life in Antarctica, complete with snowstorm simulations and encounters with huskies and penguins.
Experience the Centre
Riccarton House & Bush
Description
A historic homestead set within native bush, offering insights into early European settlement and opportunities for bush walks.
Visit Riccarton House
Nightlife & Bars
Smash Palace
Description
A quirky courtyard bar built around a retro bus, offering cold pints, hot burgers, and a lively atmosphere. Don’t miss Thursday night motorbike meetups and weekend vinyl DJ sets.
Visit Smash Palace
Austin Club
Description
Christchurch’s stylish 1950s-inspired speakeasy cocktail bar, known for its creative drinks and intimate vibe. Located on High Street, entry requires a monthly-changing password, adding to its exclusive charm. The venue also hosts live jazz, comedy, and other events, making it a top spot for nightlife in the city.
Visit austinclub.co.nz for details and to get the password.
The Dirty Land
Description
A stylish cocktail bar on Victoria Street featuring a broody aesthetic, an extensive drinks menu, and a selection of luxury spirits. Perfect for a sophisticated night out.
Visit The Dirty Land
The Last Word
Description
Located on New Regent Street, this whisky and cocktail lounge boasts over 600 whiskies and a curated cocktail list. Enjoy a classic drink in an intimate setting.
Visit The Last Word
Little High Eatery
Description
A vibrant food and drink hub on St Asaph Street, offering over 200 beers and wines from around the world, alongside nine diverse food vendors. Ideal for groups and casual hangouts.
Visit Little High Eatery
Riverside Market
Description
A vibrant indoor food market featuring over 60 local vendors offering fresh produce, international cuisines, and artisanal treats. Located by the Avon River, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy great food, shopping, and a lively atmosphere every day of the week.
Visit Riverside Market
Waipara Valley Wineries (approx. 1 hour north of Christchurch)
Greystone Wines
Description
Renowned for its cool-climate Pinot Noir and Riesling. Greystone is a family-owned boutique winery focusing on terroir-driven wines.
greystonewines.co.nz
Pegasus Bay Winery
Description
One of the largest family-owned wineries in the region, famous for Bordeaux-style blends, Chardonnay, and Riesling with strong regional character.
pegasusbay.com
Terrace Edge Vineyard
Description
A boutique vineyard known for its hand-crafted Pinot Noir and other varietals, offering a personal tasting experience.
terraceedge.com
Black Estate
Description
Award-winning family-run winery specializing in Pinot Noir and other Burgundian varieties, noted for their elegance and finesse.
blackestate.co.nz
Mud House
Description
Well-known for a wide range of varietals, including Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. They also have a great cellar door and café experience.
mudhouse.co.nz
Waipara Springs
Description
Family-run vineyard producing aromatic Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir, with a strong focus on sustainable practices.
waiparasprings.co.nz