Christchurch

Travel Guide

Christchurch
New Regent Street which includes railway items and outdoor eating as well as a small group of people
Christchurch showing a church or cathedral
Christchurch
Christchurch
Known for its green spaces, New Zealand’s “Garden City” also offers plenty of restaurants, bars, boutiques and outdoor adventure sports.

One of New Zealand’s largest cities and the gateway to the South Island, Christchurch is known as the “Garden City” for good reason. Its parks and gardens, including the expansive Hagley Park and Mona Vale on the banks of the River Avon, are a point of pride for locals.

The city has transformed itself following the 2011 earthquake, when much of the center and its classical neo-Gothic architecture was destroyed. Old buildings are being rebuilt and repaired and new complexes are cropping up. Visitors will find an ever-changing city with an innovative edge as residents make the most of the opportunities presented following the disaster. Look out for plenty of new restaurants, cafés and boutiques to explore.

It’s easy to get around Christchurch by tram, ferry and bicycle, or on foot. Cycle along the riverbank, enjoy an array of shopping and dining options and take a stroll around lively markets. Christchurch Farmers' Market is on each Saturday and offers local produce and great coffee. In summer, cool off at the beautiful New Brighton beach nearby or take a trip to scenic Lyttelton Harbour.

The city comes alive with color twice a year when it hosts two popular festivals. The annual Festival of Flowers is held in February and the Ellerslie International Flower Show is every March.

Christchurch is popular with adventure seekers looking to explore the surrounding countryside. It’s one of a few cities in the world where just 15 minutes from downtown you can hike up mountain trails or surf a wave at the beach. Other activities offered close to Christchurch include hot air ballooning, mountain biking, rafting and whale watching. There are several internationally acclaimed wineries nearby, as well as a world-class ski resort. Book tours and rent a car and equipment in town, then grab a map and hit the highway.

Where to stay in Christchurch

New Regent Street featuring railway items and outdoor eating as well as a small group of people

Christchurch City Centre

Christchurch City Centre is a destination visitors seek out for is abundant dining options, interesting museums, and colorful gardens. You might want to check out attractions like Christchurch Art Gallery or Bridge of Remembrance while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Christchurch City Centre
International Antarctic Centre showing interior views

Christchurch Airport

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Christchurch Airport and surrounding area, you can visit International Antarctic Centre and Russley Golf Club.

Christchurch Airport
Mona Vale which includes a park

Riccarton

A noteworthy feature of Riccarton is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.

Riccarton
Great place to stay in Christchurch. It's a 20 minute walk to the center of town, but there's a dairy, some take aways and bars nearby. It's clean and comfy. I had a great stay!

Addington

Unique features of Addington include the theaters and live music. Make a stop by Orangetheory Stadium or Addington Raceway while you're exploring the area.

Addington
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Merivale

Merivale is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Merivale Mall or Papanui Road.

Merivale
Visiting this farmers market in Riccarton Bush, just outside of the center of Christchurch is a wonderful way to sample the areas foods and mix with locals.

Fendalton

Travelers like the historic sites in Fendalton, and Riccarton House is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Fendalton
Novotel Christchurch Airport
Novotel Christchurch Airport
4.5 out of 5
30 Durey Road, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch, NZ
The price is P7,176 per night from 21 May to 22 May
P7,176
P8,253 total
includes taxes & fees
May 21 - May 22
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Christchurch. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (981 reviews)
"Definitely stay there again"

Reviewed on Apr 14, 2025

Novotel Christchurch Airport
Sudima Christchurch Airport
Sudima Christchurch Airport
4.5 out of 5
550 Memorial Avenue, Christchurch
The price is P6,828 per night from 18 May to 19 May
P6,828
P7,852 total
includes taxes & fees
May 18 - May 19
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Christchurch. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,002 reviews)
Great transit option
"Great option for transit / passing through"

Reviewed on Apr 17, 2025

Sudima Christchurch Airport
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
3.5 out of 5
165 Cashel Street, Christchurch
The price is P2,873 per night from 2 May to 3 May
P2,873
P3,304 total
includes taxes & fees
May 2 - May 3
Stay at this 3.5-star eco-certified hotel in Christchurch. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"On my first evening, I noticed an issue with the toilet - it constantly made a dripping sound that was quite maddening when trying to sleep. I told the front desk, in hopes that they could send maintenance to fix it, but as it was the start of the weekend, I was told that might be a while, so instead ..."

Reviewed on Apr 14, 2025

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Southwark Hotel & Apartments
Southwark Hotel & Apartments
4 out of 5
25 Southwark Street, Christchurch
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Christchurch. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,951 reviews)
"Close to everything, clean and affordable"

Reviewed on Apr 13, 2025

Southwark Hotel & Apartments
Quest on Manchester
Quest on Manchester
4.5 out of 5
54 Manchester Street, Christchurch
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Christchurch. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Hagley Park and New ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (348 reviews)
"Really nice place to stay. The room was a great size, the bed was really comfortable, it had a great kitchen. Overall it had everything i needed and the service at reception was great. There is a supermarket and other shops close by also, all easy walking distance"

Reviewed on Apr 17, 2025

Quest on Manchester
Terra Vive Luxury Suites & Apartments
Terra Vive Luxury Suites & Apartments
4 out of 5
175 Bealey Avenue, Christchurch
Stay at this 4-star luxury aparthotel in Christchurch. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (704 reviews)
"Spent a great week at the Terre Vive. Lovely apartment. Friendly host, easily able to walk to the city. Would highly recommend."

Reviewed on Apr 15, 2025

Terra Vive Luxury Suites & Apartments
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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