The Terrace, Christchurch Overview

The Terrace in Christchurch, located along the Avon River in the city center, is a vibrant dining and entertainment precinct. Known for its modern architecture and scenic riverside views, it features a variety of bars, restaurants, and cafes catering to diverse tastes. Opened in 2018 as part of the city’s post-earthquake redevelopment, it has become a popular spot for socializing, dining, and enjoying live music in a lively urban setting.

The area was earlier known as The Strip, famous for its bars and pubs, but was destroyed in the 2011 earthquake. The Terrace came up as a replacement for the same – housing pubs and bars alongside the Avon River. You can indulge yourself with truffle fries at Kong Bar or relish different types of meats at the Terrace Tavern.
A selection of craft beers at The Craft Embassy, followed by some time spent at Fat Eddie’s – the jazz bar, will make for a perfect evening. Many outdoor events are also often hosted at the amphitheatre-like stairs that lead to the Avon River at The Terrace.

What to Eat

There are a wide selection of bars and restaurants to choose from, depending on what you’re in the mood for.

Kong Bar claims to have the best cocktails in the city – they serve every drink with sophistication, whether it is an Old fashioned or a fancy Martini.
Terrace Tavern specializes in different types and cuts of meat, ranging from pork and beef to freshly shucked oysters!
The jazz club of The Terrace is Fat Eddie’s, which also hosts frequent music gigs, and provides its customers with the classic pub food of buffalo wings, pizza and fries. It’s difficult to get seats here later in the night, so make sure you come in early!
The Craft Embassy is known for its selection of craft beers and wines.
Botanic is inspired by an escape from the general pub atmosphere of the area and provides one with fresh, healthy and light options.
Original Sin is a high-end dining experience in itself, and serves carefully made and thought-out dishes.

Ambience

The Terrace lies right next to the picturesque Avon river and has a very casual, laid-back ambience with live music and an active nightlife. It houses multiple bars and restaurants, and gets quite busy later in the night, when the party crowd comes in.

It is a popular place for socializing, owing to the presence of a large variety of bars and restaurants. During the day, you can grab lunch from the many restaurants around, and sit by the wide steps and watch the river and the punts go by.

The Terrace is an ideal place to get mellow with a few drinks, and enjoy the beautiful music.

Average Cost of Dining

The bars and restaurants are priced on the slightly higher side. The average cost of a meal would be around NZD 40 - NZD 50. You could also choose to drop by for a few snacks and enjoy the riverside view, and choose not to spend on a lavish meal.

How To Reach The Terrace

The cheapest way to get there is by local bus. The closest bus stop is Madeley Road near Major Hornbrook Rd, which is an 8 minute walk from The Terrace.
If you plan on taking your own car, be aware that no parking is allowed on the adjacent street – the closest parking spots are at least a 15-minute walk away, and are paid.
You can also take a cab to The Terrace, with services such as Uber being popular and easily available throughout the city.