Christchurch is New Zealand’s oldest and second-largest city (Auckland is the largest). Though severely damaged by a series of earthquakes in 2010-2012, Christchurch has made a comeback. It’s a brand new city filled with funky bars, markets, new restaurants, shops, and art exhibits.
The locals have worked hard to rebuild and there is a community spirit here that really shines. I always love visiting as there’s a lot to see and do here. It’s a really wonderful place that also makes for a good base to see the surrounding region too.
While there’s not a lot “to do” per se, the vibe here is really relaxed and it’s worth not rushing through this city if you aren’t short on time.
Things to Do / Places to See:
1. Check out Canterbury Museum
This museum first opened in 1867 and highlights Christchurch’s past. It has over 2.3 million items in its collection, and among its permanent exhibits, you’ll find an awesome replica of the city during the Victorian era. It has entire shops and storefronts that create an immersive experience. There’s a fascinating World War I exhibit, an exhibit dedicated to the moa (an extinct flightless bird native to the area), and rotating temporary art exhibits as well. Admission is free, though donations are encouraged.
2. Ride the Christchurch Gondola
This gondola ride up Mount Vaendish is just 10 minutes but it offers the best views of the city. There is a restaurant at the top if you want to grab a bite to eat while you enjoy the scenery too. Most people walk back down (you can also walk up; it takes around 45 minutes). There are also walking trails up at the top if you want to spend some time on the mountain. Tickets are 35 NZD round trip.
3. Cycle through Hagley Park
Created in 1855 and spanning over 162 hectares (400 acres), this is the city’s version of New York’s Central Park. Since it’s so big, it’s the perfect place to cycle around so you can cover more ground. It’s home to playgrounds, a cricket ground, golf course, netball courts, and lots of green space for relaxing. The city’s Botanic Gardens (which are free to enter and also have daily free guided tours) and the tranquil Avon River are also here.
4. Hike in Port Hills
This range of hills is located south of Christchurch. The peaks, which reach heights of 200-500 meters (650-1,640 feet), are the remnants of an extinct volcano. They offer tons of hiking trails for travelers looking to stretch their legs. The Crater Rim track is a moderate trail that takes the better part of a day to complete but offers stunning views of the entire region (you can do smaller sections of it in just 1-2 hours). For an easier hike, try the Godley Head Coastal Walk.
5. Experience the foodie scene
Christchurch is home to a growing food and drink scene that has turned the city into one of the best foodie destinations in the country. Check out Dux Central for craft beer and the food trucks in Cathedral Square (on Fridays) for a wide variety of delicious eats. Don’t miss Little High Eatery, a food court/marketplace with 9 different eateries that offer a bit of everything, from a ramen bar to wood-fired pizza.
Other Things to See and Do in Christchurch
1. Visit the International Antarctic Centre
Founded in 1990, the AIC is home to the New Zealand, United States, and Italian Antarctic programs. It’s also home to The Antarctic Attraction, a massive Antarctic exhibit and cafe. Here you’ll find a lot of information on the environment and wildlife of Antarctica as well as a simulated Antarctic environment where you can pose for photos and learn about the climate. The exhibit is targeted toward kids but even adults find it fun.
2. Check out the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
This wildlife park and nature reserve has over 95 species of animals, from exotic birds to heritage domestic animals to animals native to New Zealand (including kiwis!). You can feed wild eels and lemurs, get up close to local livestock breeds, and there are even pony rides for small children. Like the Antarctic Center, this is a good place to visit with kids as they’ll not only learn about the animals but about the important conservation work the park is doing.
3. Explore Cathedral Square
Known as the Square, this is the main hub of the city. For over 150 years, the Square has been the primary gathering point for events and festivals and is a popular spot to relax and people-watch in the summer. The Christchurch Cathedral is located here, as is the 18-meter-high (59-foot) metal sculpture Chalice, designed by Neil Dawson to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the city.
4. Attend a festival
Christchurch is the main city for festivals in New Zealand. There is typically something going on every month, such as the South Island Wine and Food Festival in December, the Christchurch Lantern Festival in February, and the Great Kiwi Beer Fest in January. Other noteworthy festivals are the World Busker’s Festival in January, which includes dozens of performers and lasts several weeks, and Christchurch’s Holi Festival (held every February).
5. Visit the Centre of Contemporary Art
If contemporary art is your thing, don’t miss Christchurch’s CoCA. This non-profit gallery is home to rotating exhibitions that change each quarter so there is always something new to be seen (you can check their website for up-to-date exhibitions). While contemporary art isn’t my cup of tea, there are some pretty ambitious and unique exhibitions here from both local and international artists. Admission is free.
6. Shop at Lyttelton Farmers Market
Whether you are looking to stock up on some groceries or just want to check out an authentic local market, make time for a visit here. The market is full of seasonal produce, bread, cheese, honey, eggs, relishes, and much more. There is always great people-watching and occasionally live music. The market is just 12 kilometers (7 miles) outside of town, accessible by both car and bus. It’s open on Saturdays from 10am-1pm. Arrive early to beat the crowds.
7. Visit the Christchurch Art Gallery
Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu (commonly called the Christchurch Art Gallery) is the largest museum on the South Island and home to some of New Zealand’s best artwork. You’ll find a lot of landscapes, portraits, and modern art here. The exhibitions are always changing, so check their website to see what’s on during your visit. Admission to the museum is free and there are also free guided tours daily at 11am and 2pm (which last around an hour). Expect to spend a few hours if you really want to see everything.
8. Tour Christ’s College
Christ’s College is a private school for boys that was founded in 1850. If history and architecture are your thing, it’s worth taking their tour. The school is home to a number of heritage buildings and you can learn a lot about the city and its past through the historic lens of the school. For anyone looking to really examine the nitty-gritty historical details of the region, don’t miss a tour here (if you’re not a history buff, I’d skip this.)
9. Visit Quake City
Created and operated by the Canterbury Museum, this unique museum and its interactive exhibits were created to recount personal stories from the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes. There were 185 deaths and almost 2,000 injuries between the two. There’s extensive information about the area’s quake-prone past and personal accounts from the disasters, as well as the heroic rescue efforts by the emergency response teams.
10. Enjoy Sumner and Scarborough Beach
Located just outside the city, this is a popular summer spot for locals looking to soak up some sun and relax on the beach. There is a small village nearby with lots of charming cafes and restaurants and you can also take surfing lessons here as well. There’s a beach promenade that stretches along the coast, making both beaches easily accessible (they are just 1km from each other). You can reach the area via public bus too so it’s an easy and affordable way to get out of the city for a few hours.
11. Take a scenic train journey
New Zealand’s first railway started in Christchurch, and today there are not one but two scenic trains that you can take from the city. The TranzAlpine train goes from between Christchurch and Greymouth on the South Island’s West Coast, passing through alpine villages and lush forests on the way. The train takes 5 hours and costs 179-219 NZD one-way, depending on the season. The Pacific Coastal train hugs the coast from Christchurch to Picton, takes almost 5.5 hours
