Things to do in Christchurch

Activities, attractions and tours

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

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Most popular experiences in Christchurch

Tours & day trips

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Mount Cook Day Tour from Queenstown

Mount Cook Day Tour from Queenstown

Activity duration is 12 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is P 6,701 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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From Christchurch: Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara

From Christchurch: Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara

Activity duration is 5 hours and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is P 6,701 per adult*
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Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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Mt Cook Experience

Mt Cook Experience

Activity duration is 4 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is P 222,799 per adult*
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Cruises & boat tours

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Arthur's Pass Full-Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train

Arthur's Pass Full-Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train

Activity duration is 10 hours
8.8 out of 10 with 19 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 18,762 per adult
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Wildlife & nature

See all 7 activities
From Christchurch: Akaroa Day Tour with Optional Cruise

From Christchurch: Akaroa Day Tour with Optional Cruise

Free cancellation available
Price is P 6,366 per adult
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What to do in Christchurch

Popular places to visit

Lyttelton Harbour showing a marina, a bay or harbor and mountains

Lyttelton Harbour

Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.

Lyttelton Harbour
Christchurch Botanic Gardens as well as a large group of people

Hagley Park

Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.

Hagley Park
Sumner Beach featuring rugged coastline

Sumner Beach

The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.

Sumner Beach
New Brighton Beach showing surfing, surf and a sandy beach

New Brighton Beach

Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.

New Brighton Beach
Christchurch featuring street scenes

Cathedral Square

You can learn about the history of Christchurch when you stop by Cathedral Square. Visit the cathedral in this walkable area, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Cathedral Square
Riccarton Road

Riccarton Road

During your visit to Christchurch, you can do some window-shopping at Riccarton Road. While in this walkable area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Riccarton Road
Christchurch Botanic Gardens featuring heritage elements as well as a large group of people

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

With miles of open lawns and vibrant flower beds, this serene area of parkland ensures Christchurch’s reputation as a garden city.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Christchurch Gondola featuring mountains and a gondola

Christchurch Gondola

Cruise past shimmering blue lakes and snow-capped mountains on your way to the top of Mount Cavendish.

Christchurch Gondola
International Antarctic Centre which includes interior views

International Antarctic Centre

Take a trip to Antarctica to see the animals that live there and hear tales of the intrepid travellers who risked their lives to explore it.

International Antarctic Centre

Areas of Christchurch

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

Christchurch City Centre

Explore the picturesque and vibrant heart of the city that is getting back to normal after a series of devastating earthquakes.

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

Frequently asked questions

Is Christchurch worth visiting?
Offering a blend of adventure sports and nature, there are many things to do in Christchurch. While you're here, head to New Regent Street, a top attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Christchurch?
New Regent Street and Bealey Avenue are two excellent places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Christchurch while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Christchurch?
Don't leave without visiting New Regent Street, ranked the top tourist attraction in Christchurch.
Is three days enough to stay in Christchurch?
Three days in Christchurch is plenty of time to enjoy the city's key attractions. Many travelers stay for two days on average. New Regent Street, Isaac Theatre Royal and Bealey Avenue are among the top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Christchurch Airport.
Is Christchurch a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city center, Christchurch is a great place to explore on foot. Wander between New Regent Street and Isaac Theatre Royal. Then take a stroll through Christchurch City Centre, located 0.16 kilometers from the center, and Riccarton, which is about 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Christchurch with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, a schedule filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Christchurch with kids.

What to do in Christchurch for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or adventure seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in Christchurch for adults including Omarino Wine Park and High Street.
Are there free things to do in Christchurch?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Christchurch is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighborhoods, parks and other major attractions you can experience without taking your wallet out. New Regent Street is one spot that doesn't charge an admission fee.