11 BEST Things to do in Christchurch, New Zealand

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Looking for the best things to do in and around Christchurch? You’ve come to the right place!

As someone who’s lived on the South Island for quite a while now, I’ve been lucky enough to visit Christchurch more than a few times. As one of New Zealand’s largest cities, it is filled with impressive things to see and do. And better yet, there is an abundance of things to see outside the city as well!

To help you plan your trip here and make sure you don’t miss out, I have created this guide to the absolute best things to do while in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Best Things to do in Christchurch

1. Ride the Christchurch Gondola

The Christchurch Gondola may not be as famous as the Queenstown or Rotorua Gondola, but it’s one of my favorite sights in Christchurch. I’m sure you’ll be surprised by the views from the top, with Christchurch City, Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour, and even the Southern Alps, all to be seen from the top of the summit, which is 1460 meters (4790 feet) above sea level. 

The views on the journey up the gondola are pretty spectacular, as you’re awarded 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and Pegasus Bay. It’s a kilometer (0.62 mi) from the base station to the top of the summit, and the whole journey in the cable car should take 10 minutes. FYI – each gondola fits four people.

Once you hop off the gondola at the top, why not hop on the Time Tunnel Ride (a firm favorite with kids)? On this 7-minute ride, you can learn all about the history of the area. What’s great is that entry to the Time Tunnel is free with your Gondola ticket. There’s also the famous Red Rock Cafe and a Gift Shop located in the building.

The Christchurch Gondola is famous both for sightseeing and as a way to transport hikers up to one of the many walking tracks on Mount Cavendish. One of the most popular short walks at the summit is the Cavendish Bluff Lookout, which is a 1 hour and 20 minute (4.5 km/2.8 miles) return walk. 

The Crater Rim Walkway is another popular walking track that averages 4 hours in duration. This walk can be done in sections, for example, from Sign of the Takahe to Sign of the Kiwi, which is 3.2 km each way (2 miles). This track follows through native forest with great views over Lyttleton Harbour in the clearings. 

Book your ticket online in advance here to secure your spot!

2. Swim with wild dolphins

I bet you didn’t know that you can go swimming with wild dolphins in New Zealand! Well, on this full-day tour from Christchurch, you can!

This tour picks you up in Christchurch and takes to Kaikoura, which is a small coastal town famous for wildlife and stunning views where snow-capped mountains meet the beach. The drive itself is stunning and one of the best road trips in the country.

Once you arrive in Kaikoura you’ll jump on a boat where it’s time to start looking for dolphins!

When the dusky dolphins are sighted, you’ll get suited up in your wetsuit, flippers, and snorkel gear (provided free of charge) and jump in to swim safely with these magnificent, intelligent creatures. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of my favorite activities from my time in New Zealand.

You are also highly likely to spot fur seals and sperm whales on the cruise, so it’s a bit of a wildlife tour and dolphin diving experience all in one!

You can check out availability and book your spot on this tour online here.

3. Go on a Scenic Horseback Ride

If you aren’t someone who wants to hang out in the city too much during your time in Christchurch, a great way to escape is out in the high country on horseback!

The best way to do this is on this two-hour riverside horse trek that shows off views of Torlesse Basin en route to the Otarama lookout point, which looks out at the snow-fed Waimakariri Canyon, a very impressive sight to look at.

I loved that this tour operates with small groups of up to 6 people, so the entire experience feels very personalized. Whether you’re an experienced rider and want to go your own pace or just a beginner, the guides will make sure you feel comfortable and are taken care of. It’s also an activity that kids 12 and older can be a part of – making it a great activity for families with older children.

The price for this horseback ride is $150 NZD per person, and you can expect it to last 2 hours, making it a great tour to fit into a busy schedule. It only runs on select days though, so make sure you plan accordingly!

Check the schedule and reserve your spot in advance here!

4. See Penguins at the International Antarctic Centre

The International Antarctic Center near Christchurch Airport is a unique and must-do activity for my fellow animal lovers while you’re in Christchurch! The center offers a fun and educational glimpse into life in Antarctica. It is one of the most popular attractions in Christchurch, especially with families.

Experience the Storm Dome, which gives a real feel of the cold weather in Antarctica. There’s also a Penguin Rescue Center where you can see blue penguins up close, as well as a 4D Cinema, and the opportunity to ride a Hagglund (an amphibious Antarctic vehicle).

One of my favorite features of the International Antarctic Center was the aptly named ‘cuddle zone’. Here, you can cuddle fluffy huskies (what’s not to like?). Huskies are an essential part of life in Antarctica, as they are used to pull the dog sleds – a vital mode of transport there.

The National Antarctic Center is open every day of the year from 9 am to 4:30 pm. I recommend allowing between 2 and 5 hours here, so make sure you go early enough before closing!

Don’t miss out on the fun, purchase your tickets in advance here!

5. Go Sightseeing on a Historic Tram

Have you ever ridden a historic tram? It’s such a cool and unique way to explore a city! When you think of trams, you may think of cities like San Francisco or New Orleans, but you can explore the city on board a tram right here in Christchurch. 

This full-day tram sightseeing experience is similar to the hop-on-hop-off bus tours because you can simply hop off along the route at one of the 17 stops and hop back on again once you’re ready. Stops along the way include the Canterbury Museum, Botanic Gardens, Avon River, and New Regent Street – many of the best things to do in Christchurch!

The knowledgeable tram driver will tell you all about the city’s historical sites, as well as the general history of the city. For example, would you believe the tram line in Christchurch was built back in 1880? At just $40 NZD, it’s a fun and cheap way to spend the day!

For a unique way to see the city, reserve your seat online here!

6. Ride the TranzAlpine Train to Arthur’s Pass

The TranzAlpine train journey is known as “New Zealand’s most scenic rail journey.” On this day trip from Christchurch, you will get to take in the incredible scenery of the Canterbury Plains, Waimakariri Gorge, and the Southern Alps from the comfort of your carriage on your way to explore Arthur’s Pass.

There are open-air viewing areas on the train, so you can take some great photos, but the windows by your seat are large, so you can still take some great shots from there. There’s a café on board too – ideal for snacks and refreshments on the long journey.

Once you arrive at Arthur’s Pass, it’s time to get off the train and explore! We loved that this tour took us on some guided bushwalks along the river. We also got to visit the Craggy Cliffs and Castle Hill before driving back to Christchurch, which was icing on the cake for a wonderful day!

Tickets for this TranzAlpine train journey and Arthur’s Pass tour cost $695 NZD which includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, the one-way train ride, lunch and refreshments, guided walks, and your return vehicle transportation back to Christchurch.

Check availability for New Zealand’s most scenic train trip here!

Related Read: If you’re looking for an epic road trip, be sure to drive from Christchurch to Franz Josef via Arthur’s Pass – it’s stunning!

7. Go on a Wine Tour

Just an hour’s drive from Christchurch is the Waipara Wine Region, one of the most iconic wine regions in New Zealand. The climate here is perfect for wine growing because it has the highest summer temperatures and lowest rainfall of any of the country’s wine regions. 

Some of my favorite New Zealand wines are from Waipara – with the best varieties grown here being Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling. The Waipara is considered to be the country’s “fastest-growing wine region.” Would you believe the first vines here were only planted in 1975, and today there are over 1,300 hectares (3,212 acres) of vines! 

If you want to taste the delicious wines, why not join a guided winery tour (so you don’t have to drive)?

This particular tour is one of the best wine tours you can do from Christchurch. It is a boutique tour that takes you to 3 beautiful wineries in the stunning Waipara region.

You will taste over 15 different types of wine throughout this 5.5-hour tour. It also includes lunch, and all wine tastings are included in the price, all for just $135 NZD per person! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply fancy-tasting the region’s best wines, this is a great way to spend an afternoon.

If you’re ready to try some delicious wine, book this amazing tour here!

Related Read: The Waipara wine region is located en route when driving from Picton to Christchurch, a fun road trip on the South Island.

8. Day Trip to Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo

Let’s be honest, you can’t visit the South Island without seeing New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mount Cook! This stunning mountain is 12,218 feet (3,724 meters) tall and is surrounded by some seriously beautiful scenery.

On this full-day trip to Mount Cook, you will get to see all of the best highlights of the area including Lake Tekapo and the Tasman Glacier. Lake Tekapo is one of my favorite lakes in New Zealand and is famous for its bright blue water that sits in stark contrast to the purple flowers surrounding it in the summer. It makes for some truly amazing photos – just look at the one above!

Another highlight of this tour for me was the hike along Tasman Glacier. It is the longest glacier in New Zealand and the hike takes around 60 minutes to complete. The walk doesn’t have much elevation but does require a moderate level of fitness to complete.

This day trip costs $220 NZD per person, which I think is a pretty good deal considering it includes hotel pick-up/drop-off, all transportation, bottled water, and guided walks throughout the day. The tour only runs on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays and tends to book up quickly, so make sure you book in advance!

Don’t miss out, reserve your spot here and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before you go!

9. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight

The best way to see any city, I think, is from the sky, and that’s where this 20-minute scenic helicopter flight comes in! On this tour, you’ll see the rebuilding of the city from a bird’s-eye view after the earthquake and some of the ruins still to be rebuilt. 

See the famed ruins of Christchurch Cathedral from a unique angle – high above, and other famous city sights like the massive new sports stadium currently under construction at Madras. You will also fly over pretty Sumner Beach and Lyttleton Harbor.

In my opinion, this is one of the best things a couple can do in Christchurch because it’s both exhilarating and romantic. Be sure to bring a good camera on the helicopter tour because you’ll get some epic shots being that high up in the sky.

Tickets for this tour cost $330 NZD per person, and it’s safe to say that this will be one of the most memorable experiences of your trip!

Check availability and book your space on the tour online here!

10. Go on a Lord Of The Rings Tour

What truly put New Zealand on the world tourism map was the release of the Lord of the Rings movies, which showcases the best of New Zealand’s scenery. 

Most of the scenes from the films were shot on the South Island, and on this full-day tour from Christchurch, you will get to explore Edoras (from the Lord of the Rings Two Towers movie). It was the capital city of the Rohan people in the movie, and these sprawling plains, with the dramatic mountain peaks in the distance, really are a sight to see.

Edoras is actually the top of Mount Sunday in Hakatere Conservation Park, there’s a narrow gravel road up to the summit (aka Edoras) that starts from the small town of Mount Somers. It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Christchurch CBD. 

Your guide will show you exclusive photos of how they transformed this rural mountaintop into Edoras – the before and after photos will leave you saying, “Woah, how did they do that!”. 

Pick up and drop off at your hotel in Christchurch is included, as well as a picnic lunch with wine all for just $299 NZD per person.

Select your dates and book your spot on this tour online here!

11. Bungy Jumping

Bungy jumping is a classic New Zealand experience popular all over the country, so naturally, it’s also one of the best things to do in Christchurch!

The only bungy jump in the Christchurch region is this 35-meter jump (115 feet) over the Waiau River. Here, you’ll jump from the historic Waiau Ferry Bridge towards the blue, ice-cold water below. Of course, you won’t get wet unless you want to, but if you do, the bungy master can make it so that your hair or head will touch the water.

Because the jump is not as high as other bungy jumps in New Zealand, it’s great for beginners. You can ease yourself into the world of bungy jumping here in Christchurch! It is worth noting that children can enjoy this experience, but they must be over 10 years of age. 

At the end of your jump, you will get a certificate, and you can pay extra for a video or photos of your bungy jumping. Allow 30 minutes for this experience. 

This bungy experience in Christchurch is actually located in Hanmer Springs, a 1.5-hour drive from Christchurch CBD. A single-person jump is $220 NZD, which we think is well worth it for the thrill!

Check availability for your dates and book your jump online here.

Fun Fact – In New Zealand, we spell it “bungy”, not “bungee” like elsewhere in the world.

Where to Stay in Christchurch

Although not a large city by international standards, Christchurch is big for New Zealand. As with any large city, picking the right place to stay is really important.

There are lots of different areas to choose from when deciding where to stay in Christchurch. To help you narrow it down, I’ve included my top choices near the airport, in the city center, and just outside the city.

By the airport

One of the best places by the airport is the Lylo Christchurch. It’s actually within walking distance of the airport! It’s also 2 minutes from a retail center and the International Antarctic Center. They have luggage storage, laundry, and a communal area with a kitchen. There are a variety of rooms with prices starting at $117 NZD. You can book this super convenient hotel through Booking.com.

Another cool hotel close by is the Commodore Airport Hotel Christchurch. Although a short drive away, it has a free shuttle, free parking, and amazing reviews. Rooms come with a balcony or garden access to get that fresh air before a flight. They also have a restaurant, bar, and indoor pool. You can expect to pay between $250-$350 NZD per night. For luxury right by the airport, reserve a room at the Commodore Hotel online.

City center

In the city center, the Crown Plaza Christchurch is perfect for a luxury stay. It’s a large hotel with amazing views of the city. You can grab a coffee at the on-site cafe or cozy up by the bar’s fireplace with a cocktail. It has a gym, restaurant, and spacious rooms. You can snag prices as low as $209 NZD when you book in advance online.

For budget travelers, the social but comfortable Urbanz is a good option. Although cheap, it’s located in the heart of the city and only a couple of minutes from Hagley Park and New Regent Street, which is full of bars and restaurants. It’s a trendy, modern space with a pool table, kitchen, laundry, and on-site bar. Dorm rooms cost about $41 NZD, and private rooms are $109 NZD. You can book this budget-friendly hotel on Booking.com or through Hostelworld.com.

Just outside the city

If you don’t mind staying a few minutes outside of the city center, I recently stayed at Tasman Holiday Parks Christchurch and loved it! It’s a holiday park, so perfect for those with a campervan or motorhome, but they also have newly renovated rooms and apartments available for a great price! There are plenty of facilities, including kitchens, BBQs, and a pool. Stays start at $114 NZD and can be booked online here.

Related Read: Check out the BEST beaches in all of New Zealand!

Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in New Zealand

Let’s face it, you’re going to need wheels to get around New Zealand. Although a small country, buses between destinations are infrequent and expensive. Plus, some of the best experiences you can have in NZ are on road trips!

You have three options when it comes to getting wheels in New Zealand; a car, a campervan, or a motorhome. Here’s what you need to know about each and where to get them:

• Car – A normal car is the cheapest rental vehicle you can get in New Zealand. It’ll get you around to all of the best destinations with ease. The only downside to a car is that you will need to stay in hotels or Airbnbs during your travels (no camping.) The easiest place to rent a car in New Zealand is on Discover Cars where you can compare cars, companies, prices, features, and more very easily.

• Campervan – A Campervan is a large van that has a bed and a small kitchen in the back. It’s what most budget travelers use for traveling around New Zealand since it allows you to camp comfortably and for free (most) nights. Campervans are best for couples or solo travelers who are happy to live in a small space. You should also love the outdoors and camping…and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime! My favorite campervan rental company is JUCY because they have a huge selection of campervans to choose from, plus multiple pick-up/drop-off locations. You can browse JUCY’s campervan selection online here. Alternatively, you can easily compare all campervans available in NZ on Motorhome Republic here.

• Motorhome – A motorhome is larger and more comfortable than a campervan. Many motorhomes will comfortably sleep 6 or more people – perfect for a family visiting New Zealand. Motorhomes are the most expensive option, but with one you won’t ever need to stay in a hotel and you’ll save money that way. My top choice for a motorhome company is Star RV because they have beautiful motorhomes at affordable prices. You can check prices and availability for Star RV motorhomes online here. Alternatively, you can use Motorhome Republic to search all motorhomes in NZ. For more detailed info, read my complete guide to renting a motorhome in New Zealand!

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT CODE: I’ve managed to snag a discount code for 5% off for my readers if you book your campervan or motorhome through JUCY or Star RV! Simply click here to select your JUCY campervan, or click here to select your Star RV motorhome, and then use the code DTRAVEL25 at checkout to get 5% off – it’s that easy!

Thanks for reading!

You may think Christchurch is “just another big city” but after reading this list, I’m sure that opinion has changed. Christchurch is worth visiting as this gorgeous city is filled with amazing things to see and do!

Thanks so much for taking the time to read my blog! I really hope you found this guide to Christchurch helpful. If you did, then don’t run away just yet. Plan more of your upcoming trip by browsing My Queenstown Diary or checking out these blogs:

15 Best Stops on the Drive from Queenstown to Christchurch

8 BEST Shore Excursions from Lyttelton, New Zealand

20 Things to do in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

50 BEST Hikes in New Zealand