Experience the best of what Christchurch/Ōtautahi has to offer by turning your work trip into a relaxing getaway in this iconic New Zealand/Aotearoa city. Located on the east coast of the South Island/Te Waipounamu, Christchurch offers the perfect combination of pleasure and business.
Whether you’re visiting overnight or you’re indulging in an extra few days in this eccentric city, there are plenty of activities and delights awaiting you across Christchurch—all of which you can discover in yourHertz rental car. Once the work is done and you’ve clocked off the grind, it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy the thrum of the South Island’s largest city.
Journey Through the City Streets
Christchurch’s unique English heritage can be seen everywhere you go. Colloquially called an ‘English city’ due to the comparisons between Christchurch’s architecture and those of cities in England, the uniqueness of the face of this city can be explored in a variety of ways. One of the most exciting ways to adventure around the city is by parking your rental car and jumping on the historic tram. This scenic journey will whisk you through the city streets on a restored heritage tram, taking you past all the must-see attractions from the comfort of a carriage. You’ll be taken past the Botanic Gardens, The Terrace and Riverside Market, New Regent Street and much more. A day ticket allows you the ability to hop on and hop off at your leisure, so you can explore the best parts of Christchurch easily.
Indulge in the Flavours of Christchurch
There are many stories, people, cultures and cuisines that can be found all over Christchurch, and the best way to get a taste of all of these is through its incredible food scene. One of the top dining experiences is a visit to The Terrace. A hub of restaurants, bars and eateries, The Terrace offers a wide variety of places to expand your palette. Try Zodiac for a modern twist on Asian favorites, Botanic for local food with a classy edge, or Monarch for incredible cocktails and even better music—nothing shakes off a day of work faster than an Old Fashioned and some great tunes, but remember to have a designated driver any time you consume alcohol. If you’re looking for somewhere more laid back to chill out during the day, whether it’s a coffee or a bagel that you’re after, make sure to check out Dainty in central Christchurch or Grizzly Baked Goods on Cashel Street in the heart of the city.
Escape to a Seaside Village
Take your getaway to the ultimate level with an adventure that takes you to the heart of the South Island coast. About an hour and a half away from the centre of Christchurch sits a beloved town that is famous the country over for its French cuisine, sweeping seaside views and friendly dolphins. Akaroa is a coastal village straight out of a postcard and is sure to stun any visitors who make the journey. Nestled into the Banks Peninsula, Akaroa has a unique history as a former French settlement. Remnants of French culture can be tasted the town over through the exquisite cuisine left behind by the French settlers. If you’re looking to try your taste buds at French cooking and be transported from New Zealand to France, make sure to check out The Little Bistro across from the French Cemetery or Ma Maison’s fusion of French food with local tastes. Besides exploring Akaroa’s gorgeous sun-swept harbours, another way to make the most of this coastal paradise is embarking on a Luxury Dolphin Tour. This is a tour of a lifetime that will bring you up close to the world’s smallest and rarest dolphins as they swim beside your boat as you cruise the waves.
Immerse Yourself in Christchurch’s Arts and Culture
There’s no better way to really get amongst the rich culture of Christchurch than to experience it firsthand. This vibrant city is host to a variety of ways to explore the arts and culture on offer.Christchurch Art Gallery is a great place to start. Here, you’ll discover a plethora of works from New Zealand and beyond and is a great way to get out of the weather and into the world of art. The Centre of Contemporary Art is another hotspot for art lovers. Discover new work, international work and maybe even your new favorite work. If you’d prefer to experience your art live and loud, make sure to check out The Court Theatre for a range of plays and performances throughout the year.
From the calming coast to the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Christchurch is the perfect city to turn a work trip into an incredible getaway with your Hertz rental car.
