Christchurch is the largest South Island city in NewZealand and it sits in the heart of the ruggedly beautiful region of Canterbury. Famous for its traditional English architecture and a vibrant, innovative culture with a variety of street art and buzzing cafes - there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Take a stroll through the Christchurch Botanical Gardens, located in the heart of the city. Here you’re free to explore the 30 hectares of rare and beautiful plants and breathtaking landscapes. Don’t forget to stop off at the iconic Canterbury Museum that is full of rich cultural and natural heritage - from dinosaurs and historical photography to monthly curated exhibitions, this museum brings history to life.
Here for the adventure? Christchurch offers no shortage of thrills with skiing, snowboarding, skydiving, bungee jumping and white-water rafting – all available to the brave at heart. Surfing is a way of life off the coast of Christchurch. If you’re a beginner, try taking your board to Sumner Beach to learn the ropes. If you’re more advanced, try the swell at Taylors Mistake. If you’re somewhere in between, no worries – North Beach and New Brighton Pier are there for various water sport activities.
For a hiking excursion, embark on the Godley Head Coastal Walk (7km and 3 hours round trip) for views that will make your Instagram followers jealous. For a more difficult route, Bridle Path (3km, 2 hours) is more challenging – a great workout for stunning views work the hike. A third hike to try is Victoria Park to Harry Ell (4km, 2 hours). This walk boasts stunning views across the city and the Southern Alps.
Looking for something a little less action-packed? Christchurch is also home to the renowned wine region, Waipara. Waipara boasts international award-winning Pinot Noirs, Rieslings and Chardonnays, making it the perfect location for a wine tour with friends or family. If you drive to one of the wineries, it’s easy to stay the night and indulge in a regional wine tour during the day (where you’ll need your own driver).
Looking to explore the South Island’s famous scenery? Jump in a Hertz rental car and drive a short way from Christchurch to find breathtaking mountains, glaciers, lakes and hot springs ready to be discovered. Just over an hour’s drive away, Akaroa is a must-see destination with its beautiful bays and volcanic harbours where you can swim with New Zealand’s playful Hector’s dolphin.
For the young at heart, Christchurch’s wildlife parks offer the opportunity to get close to New Zealand’s wildlife at the Open Range Zoo in Orana; a lucky few may even spot the eponymous Kiwi when visiting Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Lord of the Rings fans will also find much delight in the scenery here, with guided tours through the region’s iconic film locations.
If you’re up for the challenge, check out Aoraki Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand. The journey from Christchurch is around 4 hours, but worth the trip, as it provides striking panoramic views – it’s difficult for photos to encapsulate the beauty. You’ll discover the lengthiest glaciers and permanent snowfields. If you spend the night, enjoy the clear star-studded skies.
Whatever your interest, Christchurch is the pinnacle of magnificence within New Zealand’s South Island. Christchurch is a 6-hour drive from the well-known city of Queenstown and under a 5-hour drive from the coastal city of Dunedin; both are stunning road trip destinations after you’ve explored this awe-inspiring city.
