New Regent Street, Christchurch (2024) - Images, Timings

New Regent Street, Christchurch Overview

Go back in time by taking a short stroll down the pedestrian-only New Regent Street, Christchurch. This quaint old-timey street, lined with colourful shops and cafes, will take you back by at least a few decades. The Spanish Mission style of architecture, with tiled shop fronts, makes it an ideal place for an afternoon coffee or a few drinks in the evening. Adding to the charm of the street is the tram, which slowly trudges past the pastel-coloured stores. Unlike the fast-paced city, New Regent Street is the historical slice of Christchurch.

The absence of traffic makes it fun and safe for those travelling with families, especially kids, who are free to go around exploring without the danger of vehicles. It is prevalent in the variety of restaurants and eateries present there, and there’s nothing better than a Rollickin’ Gelato on a hot summer day!
After the devastating 2011 earthquake, a large part of the street was destroyed, but after post-restoration work, most shops are up and running. You can enjoy an afternoon coffee here, in the open plaza or drop by for a few drinks at various bars on the street!

History

The New Regent Street was opened on 1 April 1932 by the then Mayor D.G. Sullivan. It was constructed in the area that was the location of the Colosseum, a landmark in the city. It served as an ice skating rink, then a boot factory, and a taxi stand.

In 1930, Christchurch’s first movie theatre was set up at the same location after the demolition of the Colosseum. The architect hired to develop the movie theatre also undertook the development of the street and decided to go with the Spanish Mission style of architecture. The street was pedestrianized in 1994 in order to allow a path for the Christchurch heritage tram.

Large parts of the street were damaged in the 2011 earthquake, and it was scheduled to open in 2012, but was pushed to 2013. The tram started functioning again in 2016, and as of now the street is back to its previous liveliness.

Things to Do near Regent Street

Little High Eatery- It’s a conglomerate marketplace dotted with several street food joints offering you different national cuisines and fine wine. There is Thai noodles, Venezuelan barbecue, Asian banana leaf draped prawn, French cocktails. There is also a range of handicraft products by local artisans you can take back home as souvenirs.
Street Art- Christchurch have had a horrific earthquake in the past, memories of which still lingers in some of the worn down buildings standing hauntingly incomplete and empty. Many local artists have manifested the unfortunate incident very aesthetically through their vibrant street art and magnificent graffitis. The alleys are worth to be taken photographs of.
Christchurch Botanic Garden- The garden brings together some of the most exotic species of fauna under the same roof and gives its visitors a visual treat.
Christchurch Tramway- There is something unprecedentedly beautiful about long tram journeys. The Christchurch tramway with its rich historical significance will take you through the light laden lanes of New Regent Street in all its glory.
Twenty Seven Steps Cafe and Restaurant- It has a pleasant ambience and great food.
Visit the street lounge, The Last Word for some wine or whiskey. It stays open from 4pm to 11pm on Mondays to Thursdays, 4pm to 1pm on Fridays and Saturdays. It remains closed on Sundays.
Visit the jewelry shops like Young’s Jewellers or Polished Diamonds to shop to shop for your loved ones.

Heritage

The buildings in New Regent Street have been classified as Category 1 heritage items by Heritage New Zealand, and as Group 2 heritage buildings by the Christchurch District Plan. These row of shops have been standing despite several natural disasters, and one can feel the calm, historical aura radiating from the place.

It has been a landmark of the central part of the city for almost a century now, and now features on the to-go list of every person visiting Christchurch, or even New Zealand!

How To Reach New Regent Street

Bus - The best way to reach New Regent Street is by bus. The closest bus stops are:
- Gloucester St near Latimer Square, 3 minute walk
- Manchester ST Super Store, 3 minute walk
- Manchester St near Kilmore St, 4 minute walk
Car – There are multiple parking options available around the street, and they run on a metered basis.
Tram -You could also take the heritage Christchurch Tram to New Regent Street, which is Stop number 17.