Christchurch is an energetic city in a land that is famous for its wilderness. Located on the east coast of New Zealand, Christchurch is famous for its coffee culture, food scene, amazing street art, and breathtaking landscape. Check out this helpful travel guide and discover many things to do in Christchurch!
Located just across the international airport, International Antarctic Centre is one of the major tourist attractions in Christchurch. Established in 1990, the center is home to Kiwi, American, and Italian antarctic programs and offices. Aside from attracting thousands of tourists each year, the center is also at the heart of penguin conservation efforts in the Antarctic.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens is one of the best places in the city to witness the diverse ecosystem of New Zealand. The botanical garden has well-suited tours that allow solo and group travelers to discover different plant species. One of the most visited attractions in the Botanic Gardens is its visitors center. Opened in April 2014, the center has a cafe, gift shop, and an interactive exhibition that features the history of plants and gardening in the country.
Established in 1867, Canterbury Museum has a vast collection of moa bones and bird skins. The museum was designed by Benjamin Mountfort and was constructed in a Gothic Revival style. Notable exhibits include the Victoria Cross, the Triple Crown Special Bike, and East Polynesian styled ornaments and tools. Canterbury Museum is open from 09:00 to 17:30 and its busiest days are Saturday and Sunday.
Located in the heart of Christchurch, Hagley Park is a large green space characterized by lush trees and broad open spaces. Reconnecting with Mother Nature is a breeze as tourists can do a wide range of activities such as jogging and cycling. Nonetheless, a leisurely walk along the pathways to each end of the park can offer a relaxing refuge from the noise of the city.
Opened to the public in 1974, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a wildlife park and nature reserve that has public displays of various animal species. Willowbank is home to 95 species that are divided into three sections: exotics, heritage farmyard, and New Zealand natives. The wildlife park also carries out conservation efforts for native species such as tuatara, kiwi, brown teal, and Duvaucel's gecko.
Established in 1976, Orana Wildlife Park is an open-range zoo that houses 400 animals across 70 species. Nestled within an 80-acre land, the zoo is at the center of conservation efforts of endangered native and exotic animals in the country. Over the years, Orana successfully conducted zoo-based breeding programs for cheetah, scimitar-horned oryx, white rhinoceros, and giraffe. Each year the zoo inspires thousands of visitors on the importance of environmental and wildlife protection.
Christchurch Gondola is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New Zealand. Enjoy the fresh air of New Zealand on a cable car ride that will take you to the Port Hills. Witness the panoramic views of Christchurch, Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps as the gondola traverses the slopes of Mount Cavendish. Take amazing pictures of these sites as you relax aboard a modern cable car.
Punting on the Avon River is one of the must-do activities in Christchurch. Discover the stunning sceneries along the winding river on a classic punt boat. Cruise along Avon and pass by panoramic views of Christchurch’s most picturesque botanical gardens and landmarks. Admire the history and cultural importance of punting and Antigua boatsheds as you explore the area.
Christchurch Transitional Cathedral is a temporary cathedral that hosts civic events on behalf of the earthquake-damaged Christchurch Cathedral. Opened to the public in 2013, the structure was erected while repairs are done at the Christchurch Cathedral. The Transitional Catherdal or locally known as Cardboard Catherdral is popular for its triangular pieces of stained glass and modern interior design.
Tucked in the middle of Christchurch, Cathedral Square or simply known as the Square is a popular meet-up spot in the city visited for its historical statues and buildings. The square is an ideal place for people taking a break from work and casual gatherings, aside from the usual relaxing stroll. At night, the square transforms into a stage for seasonal events. Cathedral Square is accessible via several modes of public transport within the city.
Over the years, Christchurch has quickly become a vibrant and creative city. Admired for its architecture and beautiful natural wonders, the city has a thriving art scene and many exciting things to see and do. For years, Christchurch has attracted millions of visitors from across the globe. Some of its most popular destinations include Orana Wildlife Park, Canterbury Museum, and the cathedral.
The best time to visit Christchurch is between December and March—during the summer season. However, it is also the busiest time of year for both local holidaymakers and foreign tourists. As a result, prices tend to be slightly higher.
Accommodation in Christchurch comes in wide variations, from the cozy bed and breakfasts on the outskirts of the city to the grand 5-star hotels near the central business district. Whether it be an overnight stay, a short break, or a longer holiday, it’s easy to find the perfect place to stay in the city.