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Nestled within the coronary heart of the South Island, Christchurch, referred to as the ‘Backyard Metropolis’ is a scorching spot for adventurers and cultural aficionados alike. From punting down the serene Avon River to exploring the panoramic vistas of the Port Hills, this information unveisl the highest issues to do in Christchurch. Whether or not you’re a thrill-seeker, a historical past buff, or a nature lover, get able to embark on a rare journey by way of one in all New Zealand’s most picturesque and dynamic cities.
The Greatest Issues to do in Christchurch, NZ
This information was initially written by Melissa Grossi, an ex-pat who has made Christchurch her residence since 2015, and it has been up to date for 2024 by The Planet D. So sit again and revel in as we discover all the brand new issues and actions in Christchurch and revisit among the previous favorites.
1. Punting on the Avon River
Probably the most common actions in Christchurch is to go punting on the Avon River. Fingers to coronary heart, Punting on the Avon River Tour is a fairly unique technique to go sightseeing and is an iconic place to go to in Christchurch!
What’s punting on the Avon River? It’s a gondola journey on a ship referred to as a punt. Wearing Edwardian apparel, a talented punter takes you slowly by way of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Guests love to take a seat again and loosen up on their punts as they go for a gondola journey whereas watching the wildlife and surroundings alongside the Avon River.
Excursions depart from 2 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central, day-after-day from 9 am to six pm. It prices $30 NZD for adults and $ 15 NZD for youths.
2. Journey the Christchurch Gondola
If you’re on the lookout for among the finest views of town and the Canterbury Plains the Christchurch Gondola is a must-do. This scenic journey takes you to the summit of the Port Hills, providing a 360-degree panorama that features the Southern Alps and Lyttelton Harbour. Get your gondola tickets upfront right here.
On the high, discover the Time Tunnel exhibit, detailing the realm’s volcanic and human historical past, or get pleasure from a chew on the café with its beautiful vistas. Superb for households, {couples}, or solo vacationers the Christchurch Gondola gives a singular perspective of the area’s various landscapes, making it a standout attraction in any Christchurch journey itinerary.
3. Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are an all-time basic and undoubtedly one of many high points of interest in Christchurch! They’re linked to Hagley Park, town’s predominant –and largest– park. Discover the Rose Backyard, New Zealand’s native bush sections and loosen up by one of many many secret benches surrounding the lakes.
The doorway is free. Over the winter months, the gate’s closing time is 6.30 pm. In any other case, it’s 8.30 pm or 9 pm. Commit a minimum of one hour to discover the numerous areas and gardens of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
4. Journey the Christchurch Tram
Using the Christchurch Tram affords a singular and fulfilling technique to discover town’s key points of interest. This historic tramway, with its fantastically restored trams, takes you on a loop round Christchurch, passing landmarks like Cathedral Sq., the Avon River, and the Arts Centre. The hop-on, hop-off characteristic means that you can discover websites at your personal tempo, making it a perfect selection for first-time guests and people eager to revisit Christchurch’s highlights.
A day cross usually prices round NZD 35 for adults, (children are free!) providing limitless rides, making it an inexpensive and handy technique to sightsee. The tram drivers usually double as guides, offering informative commentary concerning the metropolis’s historical past and factors of curiosity. The Christchurch Tram expertise is not only a mode of transportation however an attraction in itself, completely mixing historic appeal with sensible metropolis touring.
5. New Regent Road
In the event you’ve ever seen images of Christchurch, for positive about this cute little pedestrian passage only one avenue off Cathedral Sq.! Vacationers and locals alike love New Regent Road! Guests love to take a seat and watch the tramway cross by whereas having a drink outdoors one of many many cafés and wine bars that line New Regent Road.
New Regent Road in Christchurch is a good vacation spot for vacationers on the lookout for a mixture of purchasing and eating. This pedestrian-only avenue is understood for its Spanish Mission-style structure providing a variety of boutique retailers and native eateries.
Guests can get pleasure from looking distinctive shops, grabbing a espresso at a comfy café, or eating at one of many avenue’s eating places. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed stroll, providing a nice break from the extra bustling components of town. Whether or not you’re searching for souvenirs or simply wish to soak within the native ambiance, New Regent Road is a must-visit in Christchurch.
6. Go to the Worldwide Antarctic Centre
The Worldwide Antarctic Centre is a high attraction for these within the wonders of the Antarctic. This interactive heart brings the icy continent to life with experiences just like the Antarctic Storm simulation, an encounter with stay penguins, and the Hägglund journey, simulating Antarctic journey.
Positioned close to the airport, this is likely one of the finest issues to do in Christchurch for households. Stroll into the storm dome and really feel the nippiness of Antarctica and revel in its 4D cinema. And finish with a go to to work together with huskies. You’ll have the chance to snuggle and pet the fluffy Huskies that explorers traditionally used to tug their Antarctic dogsleds.
The Worldwide Antarctic Middle is not only an exhibit; it’s a hands-on journey into the center of the Antarctic, providing academic insights and enjoyable for all ages. Superb for households or anybody inquisitive about polar exploration, the Worldwide Antarctic Centre is a must-see in Christchurch. Whether or not you’re braving the indoor storm or studying about Antarctic wildlife, it’s an unforgettable addition to your Christchurch itinerary. You should buy your tickets upfront right here.
7. Victoria Park and the Port Hills
In the event you nonetheless have a little bit of time and power left after a busy day, you’ll be able to head to Victoria Park, up within the Port Hills. It’s among the finest actions in Christchurch for sundown. Only a quarter-hour’ drive from Central Christchurch separates this beautiful sundown spot and mountain climbing space!
Providing a community of trails for mountain climbing, mountain biking, and scenic walks, the Port Hills present beautiful views of town, the Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps. The world, wealthy in each Maori and European historical past, is definitely accessible from town heart, making it an ideal day journey for these in search of a pure escape.
Well-liked spots just like the Bridle Path and the Summit Highway provide various levels of issue for all health ranges. Whether or not you’re after a leisurely stroll or a difficult bike journey, the Port Hills cater to each sort of adventurer. This pure playground not solely affords bodily actions but in addition serves as a unbelievable spot for pictures, picnics, and easily having fun with the panoramic vistas of Christchurch and its environment.
8. Christchurch Journey Park
The Christchurch Journey Park is a thrill-seeker’s paradise, providing a variety of thrilling actions set towards the backdrop of the Port Hills. Famend for its mountain biking trails, the park caters to all talent ranges, from learners to consultants.
Apart from biking, it boasts New Zealand’s longest zipline, offering an exhilarating journey with beautiful views. The park additionally incorporates a café and bar the place you’ll be able to loosen up after your adventures. E book a zipline Tour for sweeping views of the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean.
Costs fluctuate primarily based on actions, with bike passes and zipline excursions out there for buy. Simply accessible from town heart, it’s an ideal time out for households, teams, or solo adventurers wanting so as to add some adrenaline to their Christchurch go to. Whether or not you’re hitting the paths or hovering over treetops, the Christchurch Journey Park guarantees a memorable and action-packed expertise. You may additionally like: The place to Go Bungy Leaping in New Zealand
9. Canterbury Museum
One other basic of the Christchurch points of interest is the museum was one of many few spots folks may go to, a minimum of partially, after the earthquakes. It totally reopened in 2013.
Entrance is free, although donations are inspired! The Museum opens day-after-day from 9 am to five or 5.30 pm.
10. Arts Centre of Christchurch
Now guests can take part in lots of free occasions, e book artful workshops, get a tattoo, hearken to a live performance, have a espresso, or simply stroll across the revolutionary retailers.
The Arts Centre in Christchurch is ideal for these in search of a mix of historical past, artwork, and creativity. This Gothic Revival complicated was fantastically restored after the earthquakes and homes a variety of galleries, studios, cinemas, and efficiency areas.
Guests can get pleasure from a various array of reveals, artisan retailers, and weekend markets. Positioned within the coronary heart of town, the Arts Centre is a vibrant group hub, perfect for artwork lovers and curious vacationers alike. Whether or not you’re involved in up to date artwork, native crafts, or stay performances, the Arts Centre gives a wealthy, immersive expertise in Christchurch’s dynamic arts scene.
Free entry. Open day-after-day of the week from 10 am to five pm. Be certain to set 1 hour apart to your go to!
11. Christchurch Artwork Gallery
For nearly 5 years, the Christchurch Artwork Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhet was closed to the general public. Till its grand reopening in 2015 after intensive constructing repairs, it was serving as emergency headquarters and momentary lodging for the Christchurch Metropolis Council Workers.
It appears laborious to think about the early days now as one wanders the spacious halls full of up to date reveals in such a peaceable setting.
Free guided 45-60 minutes excursions depart from the entrance desk on the bottom ground each day at 11 am and a pair of pm.
The gallery opens from 10 am to five pm each day and hosts weekly occasions.
12. Go to the Air Pressure Museum of New Zealand
A go to to the Air Pressure Museum of New Zealand in Christchurch is a journey by way of aviation historical past, good for fans and households alike. This museum affords a formidable assortment of plane, from World Warfare I fighters to fashionable jets, every with its personal story.
Interactive reveals, together with flight simulators, present a hands-on expertise, permitting you to step into the footwear of a pilot. The museum additionally pays homage to New Zealand’s Air Pressure heritage, providing insights into the nation’s army aviation historical past. With free entry, it’s a budget-friendly and academic outing, perfect for these involved in plane and army historical past. The Air Pressure Museum presents a singular alternative to stand up shut with aviation legends, making it a notable addition to your Christchurch itinerary.
13. Canterbury Earthquake Nationwide Memorial
On February 2017, the Canterbury Earthquake Nationwide Memorial opened to the general public as a part of the Sixth-anniversary commemoration occasions.
The memorial remembers the 185 individuals who misplaced their lives and the survivors of the devastating earthquakes that shook town to its core.
14. Quake Metropolis
Quake Metropolis affords a compelling and academic expertise, offering insights into the impactful earthquake of 2011. Thiscurated exhibition takes guests by way of the occasions, aftermath, and rebuilding efforts with interactive shows, private tales, and recovered artifacts. It’s a poignant reminder of town’s resilience.
Positioned centrally, Quake Metropolis is accessible and interesting for all ages, with an entry payment of round NZD 20 for adults. The exhibition not solely educates about seismic exercise but in addition celebrates the power and innovation of Christchurch within the face of adversity. A go to right here is crucial for understanding town’s latest historical past and the indomitable spirit of its folks, making it a big and shifting addition to any Christchurch itinerary.
15. Turanga Metropolis Library
The most recent and most revolutionary growth in Christchurch’s CBD is Turanga, the brand new metropolis library. Since its opening in 2018, the Turanga Library has turn out to be one of many absolute should go to Christchurch points of interest for folks round city. Cease by for a cuppa, climb the ‘Harry Potter Stairs’, get pleasure from panoramic metropolis views, loosen up with a e book, and take part in most of the workshops!
Turanga is open from 9 am to eight pm Monday to Friday and 10 am to five pm Saturdays and Sundays. Free 45 minutes guided excursions are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am.
16. Bridge of Remembrance
Constructed throughout 1923 to commemorate the New Zealand troopers who fought abroad throughout WWI, the bridge was reopened after the earthquake repairs in April 2016. This is likely one of the most well-known picture spots on the town!
Simply meters from the Canterbury Earthquake Nationwide Memorial, it marks the start of the model new promenade stroll. Relaxation assured you gained’t miss it!
17. Discover the Metropolis’s Road Artwork
Attempting to find world-class avenue artwork in Christchurch has turn out to be one of many coolest actions when strolling round city. After the earthquakes, totally different initiatives gathered artists from New Zealand and abroad to convey town again to life by way of funky avenue artwork!
Christchurch is now amongst the 39 Road Artwork Capitals of the world on the choice curated by the Lonely Planet. Guests may also use a free interactive map to information the hunt of avenue artwork round city.
18. Central Christchurch’s Avon Riverside Promenade
Beginning on Oxford’s Terrace, the brand new riverside Promenade extends alongside 2 km following the Avon River all the way in which as much as the Margaret Mahy Playground.
Grassy areas, walkways, bridges, artwork, eateries, pubs and cycle lanes make up this challenge that took 5 years to construct and was formally opened in November 2018. This space is shortly changing into a energetic hub for night-owls looking for dancing, stay music, craft beers, and writer cocktails.
19. New Malls and Galleries
Cashel St. has turn out to be the purchasing coronary heart of Central Christchurch. New markets, malls, and worldwide clothes shops are opening each few months.
The BNZ Centre and The Crossing are the latest and brightest spots for grabbing lunch, having a espresso with associates and purchasing.
Although these new developments didn’t come controversy-free! Individuals nonetheless miss the well-known Re: Begin Container Mall that was torn aside not that way back.
20. The O.G.B. at The Heritage Lodge
In the event you fancy a drink and a platter after a protracted day scouring town, you’ll be able to head to The Heritage Lodge, residence of the O.G.B. Bar Lounge.
Acknowledged as one of many high bars on the town, the constructing is value a go to by itself. It has nice ambiance, 1930’s décor fashion, and stay music. It’s my private favourite!
21. Isaac Royal Theatre
Opened in February 1908, this French Renaissance-style constructing has been internet hosting main exhibits for over 100 years!
It’s normally closed in the course of the day, however contemplating it’s simply meters from Cathedral Sq., it’s value to swing by and take a second to understand its façade!
22. Nightlife on Victoria Road
Wonderful and fashionable eating, a secret cocktail bar, the On line casino and a Clock Tower. That’s Victoria Road briefly! The chosen spot for these fancying a giant evening out!
23. Little Excessive Eatery
Opened in Might 2017, Little Excessive Eatery has turn out to be the hippest munching spot on the town with an array of worldwide avenue meals. From South American barbeque to tailored-made burgers and Thai meals, head there in case you’d prefer to expertise one of many native’s high spots!
The place itself is value a go to as its set in an space of the CBD that also has numerous rebuilding works forward! For my part, that makes it much more fascinating. Throughout lunch and dinner peak hours you’ll be able to anticipate to be ready in line from 5 to twenty minutes
Little Excessive is situated on 255 St Asaph Road, 4 blocks from Cathedral Sq.. Open from 8 am to 11 pm over weekends (10 pm on weekdays). It’s an excellent choice in case you are operating late for dinner. Most locations on the town name it quits round 9ish!
Central Christchurch nonetheless has many streets and areas that haven’t been rebuilt. Removed from being intimidated or annoyed by it, totally different initiatives on the town are targeted on sharing these areas with the group. The Christchurch Slackline crew and GapFiller set to create the brand new and first devoted Slacklining Park within the South Island
Many fascinating issues are occurring because of the work of inventive social enterprises like GapFiller. Visiting any of those spots gives you a good thought of the inventive breeze spreading out throughout city!
25. Signal of the Bellbird
Mountain climbing to the Signal of the Bellbird a should go to for panoramic views of the Canterbury Plains, Ohinetahi Reserve, and Lyttelton Harbour. This iconic path winds by way of lush landscapes, main you to an awe-inspiring vantage level the place the vastness of the Canterbury Plains unfolds earlier than your eyes
It’s an accessible journey for all ranges of hikers as you climb the two.5 mile (4 km) path resulting in a panoramic spot that showcases the expansive fantastic thing about the plains., Lyttelton Peninsula, the Southern Alps and the Banks Peninsula.
26. Cathedral Sq.
The Christchurch cathedral has lengthy been one of many high points of interest in Christchurch. Sadly it was destroyed within the earthquake. I don’t imply to disappoint you, however the Cathedral nonetheless stands in ruins. It’s now scheduled to be rebuilt by 2027.
It’s nonetheless value visiting to be taught concerning the New Zealand earthquakes and in addition, it’s not like you’ll be able to skip it as that is the center of Central Christchurch! Learn: 14 Cool and Enjoyable Info About New Zealand
27. Margaret Mahy Playground
Opened in December 2015, that is the most important playground within the Southern Hemisphere. Only a 10 minutes’ stroll from Cathedral Sq., it’s a fantastic place to benefit from the nice outdoor. One of the best half is you don’t have to have the youngsters in tow to get pleasure from it! Everyone seems to be welcome right here!
28. Riccarton Bush Saturday Farmer’s Market
The Saturday Farmers Market is a basic weekend plan for folks dwelling and visiting Christchurch. Each Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm, of us on the town kick-start the weekend with a compulsory go to to the farmers’ market.
If you’re not round city in the course of the weekend, head to the Riccarton Bush, the place the market takes place. Go to the Victorian Riccarton Home, the Rose Backyard, and Deans Cottage. Although this isn’t in Central Christchurch, it’s simply 3 km away!
29. Day Journey to Akaroa
Christchurch is a good place to make a base for locating the South Island of New Zealand. There are a lot of issues to do from Christchurch and listed here are our high concepts.
A day journey to Akaroa is a should when visiting Christchurch. Only a scenic 90-minute drive away, this charming French and British settlement is nestled within the coronary heart of an historical volcano. Akaroa affords a mix of historical past, pure magnificence, and culinary delights.
Wander by way of its colonial structure, get pleasure from a harbor cruise to identify the uncommon Hector’s dolphins, or relish native delicacies in a waterfront café. Whether or not you’re exploring its boutique retailers or soaking within the beautiful bay views, Akaroa gives a pleasant escape from town, showcasing a singular slice of New Zealand’s heritage and pure splendor. This picturesque village is a perfect getaway for these trying to expertise the varied choices of the Canterbury area.
When to go to Christchurch
Christchurch is an all-year-round vacation spot for these visiting New Zealand. Beware although that we have now ‘island climate’ right here, which means that you may expertise many various kinds of climate throughout the identical day. Carry layers of clothes to your go to, whatever the season!
Getting round Christchurch
Many of the locations I’ve shared on this information are reachable inside strolling distance. That stated, I’d prefer to level out the two favourite methods to get round Central Christchurch!
The Christchurch Tramway – The well-known heritage tramway prices $ 35 NZD for adults and stops in a lot of the metropolis’s predominant points of interest. Using the tramway is likely one of the should do actions in Christchurch in its personal proper.
Get a Lime Scooter! – Reasonably priced and quick, all you want it to obtain the app, put your info and scan the QR code! For the reason that Lime Scooters have been launched into town simply over 6 months in the past, they turned the subsequent massive factor. Now you’ll be able to see folks using –and falling!- on the streets each minute. They’re in every single place!
The place to Keep in Christchurch
The central metropolis affords quite a lot of lodging choices, from Airbnb residences to completely serviced motel residences and hostels. You may also discover good lodging within the areas surrounding Hagley Park.
My private favourite place to remain in Christchurch is Riccarton, the neighborhood you attain when heading west from Central Christchurch. Search resorts on this Christchurch neighborhood.
The Mayfair is likely one of the most extremely rated resorts in Christchurch. See charges and availability on Reserving.com
This text was originall written by Martina Grossi, an Argentinian journey and ex-pat blogger primarily based in Christchurch, New Zealand. Her weblog, The International Curious, evokes folks to go on their first abroad journey wholeheartedly and fuelled by curiosity!
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