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 which includes 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 Cathedral Square while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Christchurch City Centre
International Antarctic Centre which includes 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 Harewood Golf Club.

Christchurch Airport
Mona Vale which includes a garden

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
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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
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Fendalton

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

Fendalton
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Addington

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

Addington
Novotel Christchurch Airport

Novotel Christchurch Airport

4.5 out of 5
30 Durey Road, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch, NZ
The price is P7,597 per night from Aug 3 to Aug 4
P7,597
P8,737 total
Aug 3 - Aug 4
includes taxes & fees
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! (1,001 reviews)
"Friendly helpful staff, clean"

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Novotel Christchurch Airport
Rydges Latimer Christchurch

Rydges Latimer Christchurch

4.5 out of 5
30 Latimer Square, Christchurch, Canterbury
The price is P4,895 per night from Aug 10 to Aug 11
P4,895
P5,630 total
Aug 10 - Aug 11
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Christchurch. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,002 reviews)
"Excellent facilities including the great gym. As always, the Rydges breakfast still holds the top spot against all of the hotels we have stated in."

Reviewed on Jul 14, 2025

Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Fable Christchurch

Fable Christchurch

4.5 out of 5
166 Gloucester Street, Christchurch
The price is P5,308 per night from Aug 6 to Aug 7
P5,308
P6,104 total
Aug 6 - Aug 7
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Christchurch. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,008 reviews)
"Fabulous stay as usual. Fabulous food, fabulous room, fabulous wine."

Reviewed on Jul 29, 2025

Fable 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! (1,986 reviews)
"Staff were great and the room was nice+ comfortable bed"

Reviewed on Jul 18, 2025

Southwark Hotel & Apartments
Quest on Cambridge

Quest on Cambridge

3 out of 5
79 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch, Canterbury
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Christchurch. Enjoy parking (surcharge), daily housekeeping, and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the helpful staff and ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (222 reviews)
"Very smooth system for late checking in. Staff are all polite and helpful. Very close to CBD, walking distances from all the attractions and so close to market and restaurants. Highly recommend"

Reviewed on Jul 21, 2025

Quest on Cambridge
Quest Cathedral Junction Serviced Apartments

Quest Cathedral Junction Serviced Apartments

4 out of 5
113 Worcester Street, Christchurch
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified aparthotel in Christchurch. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,066 reviews)
"Great location"

Reviewed on Jun 7, 2025

Quest Cathedral Junction Serviced 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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