9 km
from city center 1 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Located at the heart of Christchurch and cementing its reputation as the ‘Garden City’, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens extends over 21 hectares. The Botanic Gardens has a wide array of plants endemic to New Zealand and exotic flora. In addition, the Botanic Gardens are home to many gardens, such as the Heritage Rose Garden and the Herb Garden, which contain specific species of flora.

2 km
from city center 2 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The TranzAlpine train is an inter-city rail service that runs across New Zealand from the East coast to the West coast. This passenger train is known to be one of the world's most scenic and iconic train journeys. The journey starts from Christchurch and ends at Greymouth, across the South Island in New Zealand. It is operated by the Great Journeys of New Zealand, a project under Kiwirail, and covers around 223 kilometres. The TranzAlpine train is one journey visitors should take if they have several places on their list and not enough time.

1 km
from city center 3 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Canterbury Museum is the go-to place for anybody who wants to experience the cultural, human and natural history of New Zealand. It is a striking Gothic Revival that opened in 1870 as a single-storeyed building. It now stands as a beautiful foundation after the various additions made to its architecture over the years. With its 2.3 million more artefacts, the museum offers not only historically fascinating exhibits but also multiple galleries, each with a unique timeline, place, and history to show.

8 km
from city center 4 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Located right outside central Christchurch, the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a conservation and wildlife park that hosts exotic animal species and animals endemic to New Zealand. The Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is known for its kiwi, New Zealand’s famous endangered national bird breeding program. It is also the only facility outside a government-operated conservatory to have a pair of the rare takahe bird on display.

8 km
from city center 5 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Opened in 1992, the Christchurch Gondola is a 15 minutes ride that starts at the base at Heathcote Valley and carries passengers to the summit of Mount Cavendish over a kilometre. The cable car allows passengers to take in the sweeping panoramic views of Christchurch, the Southern Alps, and the Canterbury Plains in the distance.

9 km
from city center 6 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Established in 1922, the International Antarctic Centre is one of the unique tourist attractions in New Zealand. Tucked away a quick 15-minute drive from central Christchurch, the International Antarctic Centre is located right across from Christchurch International Airport. The International Antarctic Centre is also vital for awareness and information regarding the Antarctic continent.

0 km
from city center 7 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Quake City is a museum in Christchurch, New Zealand, that tells stories of the Canterbury earthquakes through the medium of photography and videography. It primarily focuses on the events and aftermath of the September 2010 and February 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, emphasizing the combined efforts of the rescue teams, volunteers, emergency services and the Canterbury communities.

77 km
from city center 8 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial is located on Montreal Street, Christchurch. It is a tribute to the victims of the 2011 earthquakes that rocked the city. Even before the actual National Memorial was built, 185 empty white chairs were released as an unofficial memorial service by a local artist called Peter Majendie in February 2012, on the day of the earthquake’s first memorial.

1 km
from city center 9 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Nestled in the middle of Christchurch, Hagley Park is a perfect place for a relaxing afternoon stroll or a midday picnic with family and friends. It is a sprawling 165-hectare green space - the largest in the city - and is divided into two parts – north and south Hagley. It also houses the beautiful Rose Garden, the Christchurch Botanical gardens and the Lakes Victoria and Albert. Locals frequent this place to relax during the weekend or for sports activities such as walking, running and cycling.

1 km
from city center 10 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Cardboard Cathedral, also known as the transitional Cathedral, is located in Christchurch, New Zealand. It is one of the most famous cathedrals in New Zealand, known for its spectacular architecture. Cardboard Cathedral was designed by Shigeru Ban of Japan and was opened in 2013 as the replacement for Christchurch Cathedral after the 2011 earthquake.

7 km
from city center 11 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

What represents a country’s military aviation better than an Air Force Museum? The Air Force Museum of New Zealand, also known as The Royal New Zealand Air Force Museum (RNZAF), is the former curator of the national artefacts involved in the history of military aviation in New Zealand. It not only displays the collection of antiques but also treasures the different stories of men and women who try to shape the country’s aviation journey.

3 km
from city center 12 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Gently winding past the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park, the Avon River serves up beautiful views of Christchurch and is an iconic part of the city’s heritage before draining into the sea. Much of Christchurch’s early development occurred on the banks of the Avon, as were many of its first residential areas, and became synonymous with the Kiwi Dream. Unfortunately, the devastation of the earthquakes laid ruin to many of these buildings.

8 km
from city center 13 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Port Hills are a superb range of Hills located somewhere in Canterbury, New Zealand. These hills originated from the eroded remnant of the Lyttelton Volcano, which erupted millions of years ago. It is one of the most popular attractions of New Zealand, which not only serves you with scenic beauty but also offers thrilling experiences for trekking and riding through the trails of the Hills. It provides incredible panoramic views while riding and a wonderful path for short walks and little adventures. Port Hills is a splendid natural establishment that runs through Godly Head and ends up dividing the city from the harbour.

49 km
from city center 14 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Orana Wildlife Park is New Zealand's only open-range zoo spanning 80 hectares of land. It is located on the outskirts of Christchurch. It opened in 1976 and is owned and operated by the Orana Wildlife Trust, a registered charity. The Trust aims to provide quality recreational opportunities for local people and visitors to Christchurch, conserve endangered native and exotic wildlife, educate visitors (especially children) about environmental and conservation issues, and support research on endangered animals.

54 km
from city center 15 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Pegasus winery is a pleasing family-owned and operated Vineyard located in Waipara, New Zealand. It is one of the largest wineries in Canterbury that uniquely practices viticulture. The Vineyard was established in 1985 by the Donaldson family, pioneers of the Canterbury wine industry. It is one of the best places in Canterbury to have boutique winery experiences and indulge in the beauty of nature.

3 km
from city center 16 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Riccarton House is an elegant homestead built back in the Victorian days, surrounded by lush greenery with well-kept lawns and bushes and the River Avon flowing nearby. It also has a restaurant styled in the same manner as the rest of the house for the visitors and those who book the place for various events. A picturesque abode, the Riccarton House is furnished with objects and showpieces from the long-gone era of the nineteenth century, giving the visitors a highly authentic experience to take back home.

15 km
from city center 17 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Christchurch has always been careful of its environment and history, and the Godley Head campsite is something borne out of that concern. This area was built in 1939 to be used as a fort during World War Two. Although once boasting a staff of over 400, the Godley Head coastal defence battery closed as a military site in 1963. Many buildings have been removed, but three gun emplacements and several military buildings remain, though the emplacements are waiting on earthquake repairs.

3 km
from city center 18 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Mona Vale is a public park located in Fendalton, New Zealand. Fendalton lies on the outskirts of Christchurch. Therefore, Mona Vale is often visited by people of Christchurch who want a quick getaway. The park expands over an area of 4 hectares and, along with its homestead, was once recognized as Karewa. At present, the place is perfect for those who want to get closer to nature. So, those looking for a great place to go on a picnic with the family, on a date, or just to catch up with friends away from the city buzz can head to Mona Vale.

0 km
from city center 19 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

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.

0 km
from city center 20 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetu, also called Christchurch Art Gallery, is a public art gallery located in Christchurch. It boasts a vast art collection of local and international artwork. In the language of the Maoris, Te Puna refers to Waipuna, a spring beneath the gallery. Waiwhetu refers to the tiny tributaries that flow in the area to join the Avon River. Waiwhetu also means water in which stars are reflected.

51 km
from city center 21 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Adrenalin forest, located in the Canterbury region, offers one the chance to experience over 100 fun yet challenging tasks suitable for all ages. It includes a series of rope bridges, barrels, swings, and flying foxes from platforms in the tree canopy. The participants are first made to wear safety harnesses, followed by a visual demo and instructions from a well-informed guide. Then, the participants perform these tasks under the supervision of the directions. As a result, all participants have ensured safety and are detailed about the course.

3 km
from city center 22 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Avon River in Christchurch, New Zealand, is known for punting and is one of the city’s major tourist attractions. It allows one to appreciate and admire the glorious beauty of the garden city of New Zealand. The park branch is the main departure point at the Antigua Boat-sheds and passes through the colourful flowers in the Botanic gardens. In contrast, the city rides pass through the heart of the city centre and offer a view of the city from a different perspective.

23 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Tamaki Drive is a coastal road in Auckland, New Zealand, which follows the contours of Waitemata Harbour. The road links the suburbs of Orakei, Mission Bay, and Kohimarama ending in Saint Heliers, providing easy access to the local beaches.

3 km
from city center 24 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

New Zealand is known for the markets that open primarily on weekends for locals and tourists who frequently shop at these events. Most of these are farmers’ markets or produce markets where growers and farmers sell their fresh produce to the customers. These markets are widely popular for the quality of fruits, vegetables, dairy, etc., that are found. Apart from the items sold, the needs usually have stalls serving breakfast and freshly brewed coffee.

1 km
from city center 25 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Christchurch tramway is one of the oldest trams that run across the urban streets of Christchurch, touring the city. Also known as the Heritage Tram, this is one of the few tours that combine history with sightseeing. For visitors, it provides a comfortable journey across Christchurch along with a set of combos and meals.

101 km
from city center 26 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Tucked away at the Southern Alps' foothills, halfway between Christchurch and the Mackenzie Basin on the Inland Scenic Route 72, Mount Somers is an idyllic countryside town in Canterbury, New Zealand. Boasting utter tranquility, open sub-alpine tussock lands, historic coal mines, impressive volcanic formations, deep canyons and gorges, the town is home to just 3000 people.

17 km
from city center 27 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Waimakariri currently flows through Christchurch and Lake Ellesmere/Te Waihora. Mountains on either side of it sandwich the Waimakariri River. The Waimakariri is a braided river; flowing into channels like a rope braid. The Waimakariri River is loaded with sediments that fall on the river bed as the flowing water slows down. With time these sediments build up, and the dry parts of the river bed become lower. Then the water flows naturally to the lowest point, and the bed shifts. Like this, the Waimakariri keeps moving across the riverbed.

113 km
from city center 28 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Hanmer Springs is a small town in Canterbury, New Zealand which is famous for its hot pools complex and the range of outdoor activities offered to the tourists and the locals who often visit the town for a weekend off or during holidays. Activities like skiing and snowboarding are most popular during the winter season. The Alpine village is very scenic, and the natural beauty of the town can be observed and enjoyed via the airline services offered for the very same purpose.

1 km
from city center 29 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Christchurch Arts Centre or The Arts Centre Te Matariki Toi Ora is a national landmark of New Zealand, which has been undergoing restoration since the devastating Christchurch earthquake in 2011. The centre has various famous museums within its boundaries, like the Rutherford’s Den and the Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities; apart from those, it also has many eateries, boutique art galleries, offices, retailers, etc.

0 km
from city center 30 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Isaac Theatre Royal is in the heart of Canterbury’s art history. It is one of New Zealand’s most famous theatrical venues and is an iconic part of Canterbury’s heritage. It is a vast hall with a seating capacity of approximately 1300 people and is divided into three levels. The theatre is a masterpiece of two great architects- Sidney and Alfred Luttrell, who designed this glorious platform.

11 km
from city center 31 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

A visit to the city of Christchurch would be incomplete without soaking up a little sun and working on that beautiful tan at the gorgeous Sumner Beach, away from the hustle and bustle of Christchurch city. It is the perfect getaway for both – the solo traveller and the family on vacation. It offers a brilliant view of the area and is only 12 kilometres away from central Christchurch. An ideal day trip from the city – one can spend the day having a few drinks with friends and relaxing next to the ocean. Sports enthusiasts can also rent a bicycle and ride along the coast to the beach.

28 km
from city center 32 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Black Cat Cruises offer the enchanting experience of swimming with dolphins and harbour cruises from Akaroa to Island Adventures to Lyttelton. In addition, only Black Cat Cruises offers fully sheltered swim vessels with onboard toilets and other significant facilities.

59 km
from city center 33 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Cathedral Square is located in the centre of Christchurch in New Zealand. Locally recognized as “The Square”, the attraction is famous for Christchurch Cathedral, an Anglican cathedral. Two main streets of the city, Worcester Street and Colombo Street, theoretically go through the centre of the square. But, in reality, detours have been constructed so that the streets run around the yard. Some parts of these roads have also been blocked, but foot traffic is very much welcome.

1 km
from city center 34 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Terrace is the perfect place in Christchurch to forget all your worries at work and home and unwind with a selection of craft beers and fine wine, accompanied by great live music and dance. Broad steps lead right down to The Terrace, situated on the banks of the River Avon, where visitors can grab food and relax on a sunny afternoon. As the night progresses, The Terrace gets livelier and more crowded as people go to the riverside restaurants and bars to groove to the music.

1 km
from city center 35 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Christchurch Adventure Park is situated in Port Hills, Christchurch. It was built by a Canadian Company, Select Evolution and opened its doors to the public on December 21, 2016, by the Mayor of Christchurch, Lianne Dalziel. This park is the largest adventure park in the Southern Hemisphere.

9 km
from city center 36 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Unofficially known as New Zealand's beach-going capital, the Bay of Plenty is abundant in beautiful beaches and vast waters which line the glorious coastline of the island. This coastline is a hundred-kilometre stretch from Waihi Beach in the north end to the southernmost point of the region.

10 km
from city center 37 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Clearwater Golf Club is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious golf courses in New Zealand. Established in 1908, the golf course was given a makeover by renowned golf course architect Graham Marsh and its 18 holes have played host to Christchurch’s biggest and most famous championships. It has been the venue for the New Zealand Open and has offered the chance for pros and amateurs alike and is a firm favourite amongst the Kiwi public. The clubhouse is regularly touted as being among the best golf courses in New Zealand. The Clearwater Golf Club is also notable for being one of the premier venues to host functions like weddings, anniversary parties, and other social gatherings.

8 km
from city center 38 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Russley Golf Club is among the premier golf courses in New Zealand and is a firm favourite to play a few holes among the public in the city. It is notable for being the only golf course in New Zealand that was designed by the world-famous golf course architect Dr Alister Mackenzie. Designed in 1927, the course prides itself on how each hole offers golfers a vastly different golfing experience than the one that precedes it, making for a truly memorable afternoon out. It is regularly voted as being the top golf course in Christchurch and it is no wonder that since 1927, Kiwis and visitors from across the world come here to enjoy the stunning greens of Russley Golf Club.

4 km
from city center 39 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Christchurch Golf Club is among the most beautiful golf courses in New Zealand. A 15-hole course that offers golfers some of the best views one could ever hope for on a golf course, with 6 of those holes directly overlooking the Pacific ocean, this is a truly remarkable golfing experience. Ranked 37th amongst the best golf courses in the world, it is no wonder that the Christchurch Golf Club is one of the favourite weekend getaway destinations for Kiwis.

11 km
from city center 40 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Located in Harewood Christchurch is one of the best golf courses in New Zealand and is one of the country’s best-kept golfing secrets. The Harewood Golf Club was ranked 6th on Golf Digest’s top 100 golf courses in the world and it comes as no surprise for those in the know. The Harewood Golf Club is a relatively new golf course and was established in 2015 and membership is kept private and members are hand-selected by the club. The rugged mountains in the backdrop serve to be one of the most stunning places anybody could hope to tee off from. The Harewood Golf Club is notable for being decidedly low-key and disavows the uptight rules that golf clubs around the world have become known for.

6 km
from city center 41 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

One of the most exclusive golf courses in New Zealand, the Ferrymead Golf Club is located in Ferrymead Park Drive. Sprawling over 500 acres of pristine greens the Hills Golf Club evolved from a modest 3-hole course into a majestic world-class championship course. Overlooking a glacial valley and set amidst the dramatic scenery that the region is known for, the Ferrymead Golf Club is surely one of the finest golf courses in New Zealand. It hosted the New Zealand Open in 2007 and is a favourite amongst pros but is a hugely enjoyable experience for those that are just testing the waters and want to enjoy a few casual rounds with their mates too! Undulating greens and the challenging elevation changes also entice even the most ardent golfers and a day out in the greens here is sure to be a thoroughly challenging yet rewarding day for seasoned vets too!

25 km
from city center 42 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Notable for being one of the few public 18-hole golf courses in New Zealand, the Pegasus Golf & Sports Club aims to make golf a sport more accessible to the general public. Located on Mapleham Drive Street, Pegasus, on the edges of the city centre of Christchurch, the Pegasus Golf & Sports Club is among the most accessible golf courses in New Zealand. Its very affordable green fees and equally affordable golf clubs rental fees ensure that the sport does not remain in the lofty echelons that golf has come to signify.

109 km
from city center 43 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The township of Arthur’s Pass is located a two hour drive from Christchurch. Situated on the west coast of the South Island, the roads leading to the township from Canterbury are nothing short of an engineering marvel and provide great views of the landscape. Arthur’s Pass National Park, one of the townships major tourist attractions, can be considered as two halves divided by a historic railway and highway. Along the eastern half of the divide lies sprawling expanses of beech forests and riverbeds while the western half comprises rivers flowing through deep canyons and gorges, flanked by imposing forested mountains. One of the best ways to take in the pure and natural scenery is through the renowned TranzAlpine Service railroad that carves through the region. One of the most popular activities among travellers in the region is mountaineering and hiking into the national park. Skiers and snowboarders can head to the Temple Basin Ski Area and ride some of the freshest snow in the country. The area is also known for being the native habitat of the famous flightless kea bird, one of the only species of alpine parrots.

40 km
from city center 44 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Akaroa, a town in South Island, New Zealand, is one of the most historic and bi-cultural places to visit. This town is located on the peninsula's banks and is Southeast of Christchurch. The primary employer industry in Akaroa is tourism, with tourists from across the world working here seasonally, giving this town an exotic vibe.

8 km
from city center 45 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Kaikoura, which lies on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand, is the perfect place for a weekend getaway from the cities of Picton or Christchurch. It boasts of having the most successful whale and dolphin spotting tours, with an almost hundred per cent spotting rate. One can see various kinds of whales, including sperm, orcas, humpback, and even the mighty blue whale! You could also book a tour to swim in the ocean with these gentle, harmless giants. Multiple whales and dolphin spotting tours operate here, both on boats and on choppers!

5 km
from city center 46 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Located just 60 kilometres north of the city of Christchurch, the small valley town of Waipara boasts of having the most flavourful and well-made wines in this part of the country. With vineyards that stretch into the distance, surrounded by gentle hills, Waipara is great for a weekend trip, away from the hustle and bustle of Christchurch.

47 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

The Margaret Mahy Family Playground is part of the Christchurch Rebuild Anchor Project in Christchurch, New Zealand. The playground is suitable for all ages and abilities, can be used for outdoor events, and can hold up to 1000 people. The key features include a playground, water play area, a covered picnic area and free electrical BBQs on site. The playground also features a Whariki welcome mat which has paved designs to appear like welcome mats.

48 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Banks Island is a volcanic peninsula located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is a generally hilly area and one of New Zealand’s most unique landforms. The peninsula was formed by two giant volcanic eruptions about eight million years ago. The unusual cogwheel shape is due to the harbours and bays that spread out of the peninsula’s center. The historic town of Akaroa is one of the main highlights and is an 80km drive from Christchurch and drive along Summit Road, one of the original craters is beautiful.

49 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Summer Beach is a quaint spot popular among city dwellers and visitors for a day in the sun and is located in Christchurch, New Zealand. The quirky sea side architecture gives the beach character. You can stroll along the promenade starting at Cave Rock and end at Scarborough Park. The walk takes 20 minutes and is accessible for wheelchairs and buggies. You can also explore Cave Rock which is a chunk of lava and practice rock climbing at low tide. Scarborough Park is a great place that sits under cliffs where children can have fun.

8 km
from city center 50 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

New Brighton Beach in Christchurch, New Zealand is a great coastal retreat for people visiting Christchurch. The beach boasts 11 miles of golden sand that stretches from the Waimakariri River to South Spit. You can cool off here in the summer or enjoy surfing on the rolling waves. The New Brighton Pier is great for a stroll and sweeping views of the coastline. The South Spit which is the southernmost point is a reserve and is great for wildlife spotting. You can look out for gulls, pied stilts, dotterels and godwits.

13 km
from city center 51 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Diamond Harbour is a beautiful attraction in Canterbury, New Zealand and is a small settlement on the Banks Peninsula. The harbour got its name due to sunlight shining on the water and giving the effect of diamonds sparkling. You can visit their local treasure, Orton Bradley Park which is a private farm for one of the best picnic spots. There are giant trees, creeks, barbecue areas, relics and heritage buildings for visitors to enjoy. Many walking tracks pass through native bush and rhododendron gardens.

11 km
from city center 52 out of 53
Things To Do in Christchurch

Quail Island which translates to Otamahua in Maori is an inner harbour island and is Canterbury’s largest island. It was named after the now extinct native quail by Captain William Smith and was originally used as a quarantine station by early European settlers. The island is a short 15-minute ferry ride away from Lyttleton and you can enjoy stunning cliffs, shipwrecks, quarry remnants, and easy walking trails. You can even kayak to the island.