A tram travels down New Regent Street in Christchurch, New Zealand

Where to Stay in Christchurch, New Zealand: 6 Best Areas & Hotels


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Looking for the best area to stay in Christchurch? You’ve found the right guide!

Having lived on the South Island, I’ve been lucky to visit Christchurch plenty of times, and one thing I’ve learned is that where you stay can really shape your trip. Maybe you want to be right in the middle of the action with restaurants and nightlife at your doorstep, relax in a leafy suburb, or even wake up to the sound of the ocean. 

The good news is Christchurch has options for every style and budget, from boutique city hotels to cozy seaside B&Bs. To help you narrow it down, I’ve rounded up the best neighborhoods and hotels so you can find your perfect base. Let’s check it out!

Quick Pick: My Top Choice

This is the hotel and area I loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!

My personal FAVORITE part of Christchurch to stay in is the CBD! This puts you close to the best attractions, dining, and shopping. It’s where I recommend first-time visitors stay!

I suggest staying at Hotel 115. It’s a stylish, boutique hotel with the historic Christchurch tram running right through it!

Where to stay in Christchurch Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Christchurch

Bailey stands on a rock overlooking Sumner Beach in Sumner, Christchurch
Sunmer Beach!
Bailey-drinks-a-cocktail-in-Christchurch New Zealand
Enjoy upscale? Check out Merivale!

From the buzz of the CBD to leafy hillside escapes or even the seaside, choosing where to stay in Christchurch can feel tricky. If you’re staying in the city center or nearby suburbs, getting around is easy on foot, by metro, or on the iconic Christchurch tram. Head a little further out, and a rental car will come in handy, especially if you’re planning to road trip across the South Island. 

Areas like Cashmere and Sumner lean more toward boutique B&Bs and vacation rentals, while the central neighborhoods offer a wider mix of hotels. The good news is that wherever you base yourself, you’ll never be far from the action—it’s really just about choosing the area that matches your travel style.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas and hotels to stay in Christchurch:

  • Christchurch City Center (CBD) – The lively heart of Christchurch, where heritage meets innovation, packed with top attractions, green spaces, and buzzing nightlife. Hotel 115 puts you right in the middle of it all, with boutique style and the city’s historic tram running straight through the property.
  • Riccarton – Youthful and energetic, this neighborhood is a hub for shopping, dining, and student life, just minutes from Hagley Park and the CBD. For convenience and comfort, Grand Riccarton Hotel delivers modern rooms, friendly service, and easy access to local highlights.
  • Merivale – Stylish and sophisticated, Merivale is known for boutique shopping, chic dining, and leafy residential streets just north of the city center. Blending 19th-century charm with modern comforts, Merivale Manor offers a boutique base in this polished neighborhood.
  • Near the Airport – A practical choice for road-trippers or those with late-night arrivals and early flights, with quick access to car rentals and the Antarctic Centre. Just steps from the terminal, Novotel Christchurch Airport combines unbeatable convenience with sleek, soundproofed rooms.
  • Cashmere – Leafy and elevated, this hillside suburb is the gateway to Port Hills trails and panoramic views stretching to the Southern Alps. Tucked into a historic homestead, Hackthorne Gardens Luxury Accommodation pairs heritage elegance with modern comforts in a tranquil setting.
  • Sumner – A relaxed seaside suburb with golden sands, coastal walks, and a laid-back small-town vibe just 20 minutes from the city. Perched above the water, 340 Degrees Alps & Sea provides boutique B&B charm with sweeping sea and mountain views.

Important Tip

Multiple Christchurch trips have taught me that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.

The sweet spot for booking Christchurch accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.

Where to Stay in Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch City Center (CBD)

Bailey looks at a display the the Christchurch Art Gallery in New Zealand
At the Christchurch Art Gallery
Bailey at the New Regent Street Precinct in Christchurch, New Zealand
Enjoying colorful New Regent Street

Christchurch City Center (CBD) is the beating heart of the city and the best place to be if you want everything right at your doorstep. This compact area is where modern innovation meets heritage charm, with sleek new developments rising alongside carefully restored architecture following the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. 

Walking around, you’ll notice how the city has reinvented itself—open green spaces, contemporary art installations, and creative hubs make the CBD feel fresh and vibrant. It’s an excellent base for travelers who want to balance city life with easy access to outdoor adventures. Within the center, you’ll find top attractions like the Christchurch Art Gallery, Canterbury Museum, New Regent Street, and the Riverside Market, which is a favorite spot for sampling local food.

The Avon River winds through the CBD, and taking a punt ride along its banks is one of the most iconic Christchurch experiences. Evenings here are lively, with an array of restaurants, bars, and craft brew pubs to choose from.

The CBD is well-suited for first-time visitors, couples who enjoy dining and nightlife, and anyone who prefers to stay close to the action before heading out on day trips.

Pros

  • Central location with easy access to top attractions
  • Lively dining, nightlife, and shopping scene
  • Walkable area with excellent public transport connections

Cons

  • Can feel busy, especially around weekends
  • Accommodation prices are higher than in the outer suburbs
  • Limited sense of ā€œquiet retreatā€ compared to coastal or hillside areas

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch – $$$

The Observatory Hotel in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: The Observatory Hotel

The Observatory Hotel Christchurch is a five-star gem right in the heart of the city, blending history, culture, and modern comfort. Just steps from Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Art Gallery, and the tranquil Avon River, the location couldn’t be better for exploring the CBD on foot. 

Inside, the rooms are elegant and thoughtfully designed, featuring plush bedding, air-conditioning, minibars, and luxurious touches like bathrobes and executive lounge access. Guests also rave about the warm service, 24-hour front desk, and the convenience of private parking. With a fitness center on-site and beautiful gardens to enjoy, it’s the kind of hotel where you’ll actually want to spend time between adventures. 

Couples especially love it here, often rating the location near-perfect for a city getaway. Rooms typically range from $230 to $1,700+ NZD per night, depending on the suite and season.

Hotel 115 – $$

Hotel 115 in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Hotel 115

Hotel 115 is a stylish boutique property in the heart of Christchurch, offering a modern stay with a unique twist—the historic tram literally runs through the hotel! Just steps from Cathedral Square, Te Pae Convention Centre, and the colorful New Regent Street, the location is ideal for exploring the CBD on foot. 

The 37 rooms vary in style and layout, from cozy standards to suites with balconies or interconnecting options for families. Each is fitted with thoughtful touches like flat-screen TVs, unlimited Wi-Fi, and sleek private bathrooms. Guests also enjoy access to a partner gym, pool, and spa, which is a real perk for a mid-range property. 

With its contemporary design and unbeatable location, it’s a fantastic choice for couples or travelers who want city convenience without splurging on luxury. Expect to pay between $180 and $660 NZD per night, depending on the room type and season.

Southwark Hotel & Apartments – $

Southwark Hotel & Apartments in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Southwark Hotel & Apartments

Southwark Hotel & Apartments offer a modern and affordable base right in the center of Christchurch, making it a favorite for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to compromise on comfort. The property features a range of studios and apartments, each with kitchenettes, Netflix, and unlimited free Wi-Fi—ideal for longer stays or anyone who likes to cook their own meals. 

Guests can also use a large communal kitchen, plus the on-site laundry facilities add to the convenience. The location is another big win: just a short stroll from Hagley Park, Cashel Street’s shops, and plenty of restaurants and cafes. 

With a 24-hour reception and private parking available, it’s a practical choice for couples, solo travelers, and families alike. Nightly rates for a one-bedroom stay generally start around $110 NZD and go up to about $375 NZD, depending on the size of the studio or apartment.

Riccarton

The Hagley Park seen in Christchurch New Zealand
Hagley Park

Riccarton is one of Christchurch’s liveliest neighborhoods, offering a more modern and youthful vibe compared to the historic charm of the CBD. It’s a popular base for students and young professionals, largely thanks to its proximity to the University of Canterbury and the shopping and dining hub that surrounds Riccarton Road. 

The area feels energetic yet relaxed, with a mix of trendy cafĆ©s, international restaurants, and bustling bars. It’s the kind of place where you can grab brunch at a cozy cafĆ© in the morning and be sipping drinks with friends by night.

One of Riccarton’s main draws is Westfield Riccarton, the city’s largest mall, which makes it a shopper’s paradise. But it’s not all about retail therapy—nature lovers can enjoy Riccarton Bush, a beautiful protected forest that’s home to native kahikatea trees, and the nearby Saturday farmers’ market, which is a favorite for fresh produce and artisanal goods. 

Plus, Hagley Park and the CBD are just a short drive or bus ride away, so you won’t miss out on central attractions either. Riccarton is best suited to younger travelers, couples, or families who want modern amenities and a lively atmosphere while still being close to the city center.

Pros

  • Trendy neighborhood with lots of cafĆ©s, restaurants, and shops
  • Easy access to Riccarton Bush and a popular farmers’ market
  • Convenient transport links to both the CBD and the airport

Cons

  • Can be busy and traffic-heavy along Riccarton Road
  • Less historic charm compared to the CBD
  • Nightlife can create some noise in certain areas

Chateau On The Park – $$$

Chateau On The Park in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Chateau On The Park

Set among five acres of peaceful gardens, Chateau On The Park – Christchurch, A DoubleTree By Hilton, offers a resort-style escape just minutes from Riccarton Road. Guests are welcomed with the brand’s signature warm chocolate chip cookie, a small touch that sets the tone for a stay filled with thoughtful hospitality. 

Rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with plush beds, air-conditioning, organic toiletries, and modern conveniences like free Wi-Fi. On-site, you’ll find a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and the Garden Court Brasserie, which serves meals overlooking the landscaped grounds. The cozy Little Red Fox bar is perfect for a nightcap by the fire. 

A complimentary shuttle runs to the CBD, though you’re also within walking distance of Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens. Rates typically range from $170 to $1,000 NZD per night, depending on room type and meal packages.

Grand Riccarton Hotel – $$

Grand Riccarton Hotel in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Grand Riccarton Hotel

Grand Riccarton Hotel delivers solid 4-star comfort in one of Christchurch’s most convenient locations. The rooms are simple yet modern, each with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, work desks, and free Wi-Fi, making them a practical choice for both short and extended stays. Guests particularly appreciate the friendly service, sun terrace, and free on-site parking. 

Breakfast is another highlight, with a continental buffet that includes warm dishes, fresh fruit, and juices to start the day off right. From here, you’re just a short walk to Christchurch Railway Station, close to Hagley Park, and within easy reach of Canterbury Museum and central attractions. 

Couples rate the location highly for its convenience and value. Expect rates to fall between $140 and $600 NZD per night, depending on room type and season.

Golden Hotel – $

Golden Hotel in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Golden Hotel

For a stay that balances affordability with modern comforts, Golden Hotel is a great option in Riccarton. Rooms are clean and contemporary, offering air-conditioning, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and soundproofing to ensure a restful night’s sleep. 

The on-site restaurant is a highlight, serving a mix of American, Vietnamese, and European dishes with vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Guests can also enjoy brunch, high tea, or a casual coffee in the garden seating area. Free parking and an EV charging station add convenience, especially if you’re planning road trips around the South Island.

With the University of Canterbury just a 12-minute walk away and Hagley Park and the CBD close by, the location is both practical and well-connected. Room rates usually start around $100 NZD per night and go up to $380 NZD, depending on room size and season.

Related Read: Need help planning your days? My 2-day Christchurch itinerary hits all the highlights from the best sights to restaurant recommendations, and more!

Merivale

Part of Hagley Park in Christchurch New Zealand
Part of Hagley Park
Bailey-enjoys-a-cocktail-while-out-in-Christchurch New Zealand
We love the classy bars here

Merivale is one of Christchurch’s most stylish neighborhoods, known for its leafy streets, boutique shopping, and upscale dining scene. Just a short distance north of the CBD, it offers the perfect blend of convenience and sophistication, making it a favorite among travelers who want a more refined base without being right in the midst of the city’s buzz.

The heart of the neighborhood is Merivale Mall, a boutique shopping center filled with fashion stores, gourmet food outlets, and cafĆ©s where you can linger over a coffee. The surrounding streets are home to fine-dining restaurants, chic bars, and luxury hotels, giving the area a distinctly polished feel. 

Despite its cosmopolitan edge, Merivale maintains a relaxed, residential charm that makes it easy to unwind. It’s the kind of neighborhood where locals mix with visitors, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels both exclusive and approachable.

It’s also practical—Hagley Park is close by, and the CBD is just a quick bus ride or short drive away. For those planning to head north to explore destinations like Kaikōura or Hanmer Springs, Merivale provides easy road access.

Merivale is best suited for couples, business travelers, and visitors who appreciate stylish surroundings, excellent dining, and a quieter alternative to staying in downtown areas.

Pros

  • Upscale neighborhood with fine dining and boutique shopping
  • Close to the CBD but quieter and more relaxed
  • Great selection of luxury hotels and accommodations

Cons

  • Less budget-friendly, with higher accommodation and dining costs
  • Limited nightlife compared to the CBD or Riccarton
  • Smaller area with fewer ā€œbig-ticketā€ attractions nearby

Pavilions Hotel – $$$

Pavilions Hotel in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Pavilions Hotel

Family-owned for over 25 years, Pavilions Hotel is a Merivale favorite that combines warm hospitality with modern amenities. The property offers a variety of accommodations, from stylish studios and newly renovated rooms with kitchenettes to spacious apartments and even standalone cottages—perfect for longer stays or families.

Guests can relax at the outdoor heated pool and spa, workout in the fitness center, or unwind in the leafy courtyard. Dining is another highlight: the hotel’s restaurant serves a full Ć  la carte menu seven days a week, while the cozy bar is a great spot for a casual drink. 

Room service is available 24 hours, and the attentive staff are known for going the extra mile to make stays memorable. Rates generally range from $140 to $480+ NZD per night, depending on the room type.

Merivale Manor – $$

Merivale Manor in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Merivale Manor

For a boutique stay with character, Merivale Manor delivers charm and comfort in equal measure. Housed in a beautifully restored 1880s residence, this property offers studios and apartments that blend period elegance with modern conveniences. 

Each unit includes air-conditioning, a private bathroom, and a kitchenette with a dishwasher, microwave, and refrigerator—perfect for travelers who appreciate the flexibility to make their own meals. Guests enjoy thoughtful extras like free access to laundry facilities, a small guest library, and unlimited Wi-Fi.

The bus stop right outside makes it easy to get downtown, while the CBD and Hagley Park are just a few minutes’ drive away. Couples especially rate the location highly for its balance of convenience and quiet charm. Rooms and small studios typically start around $180 NZD, with apartments and suites also available at higher rates.

Scenic Hotel Cotswold – $

Scenic Hotel Cotswold in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Scenic Hotel Cotswold

For an affordable yet comfortable base in Merivale, Scenic Hotel Cotswold is a standout. Surrounded by English-style gardens, the hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and tea and coffee facilities. While the dƩcor leans traditional, the generous room sizes and thoughtful touches make it a reliable and cozy choice.

Guests can take advantage of the outdoor pool, sauna, and fitness room, or enjoy classic New Zealand fare at the on-site restaurant, which is open for breakfast and dinner. There’s also a welcoming bar for winding down after a day of exploring.

The location is excellent—just a short stroll to Merivale Mall, Hagley Park, and plenty of local dining options, with the CBD only minutes away. Basic rooms generally range from about $120 to $200 NZD per night, with one and two-bedroom suites also available at higher rates.

Let me HELP you plan your road trip!

Ebook example image

I’ve created this FREE e-book that is your COMPLETE GUIDE to planning a road trip in NZ! In the guide, you’ll find many different road trip itinerary ideas, so you can easily choose one that works for you!

The guide includes the best stops, attractions, road trip routes, and how much time you need!

Near the airport

If you’re flying into Christchurch and planning to hit the road quickly, staying near the airport is a practical and stress-free choice. Located about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the CBD, this area is all about convenience, especially for travelers arriving late at night or catching an early morning flight.

The airport precinct has a good selection of modern hotels, many with free shuttles to and from the terminal. You’ll also find plenty of rental car agencies nearby, making it easy to pick up your vehicle and start your South Island road trip without having to detour into the city.

For those staying a night or two, attractions like the International Antarctic Centre and Canterbury Agricultural Park are close by, and you can still reach Hagley Park or the city center within 20 minutes. It’s also a great option if you’re traveling with kids or lots of luggage, since you can settle in quickly without the hassle of navigating downtown traffic.

Dining options are more limited compared to central neighborhoods, but many hotels feature on-site restaurants, and there are a few casual eateries within short driving distance. This area suits families, road trippers, or anyone who values efficiency over nightlife.

Pros

  • Extremely convenient for flights and rental car pickups
  • Hotels often include free airport shuttles
  • Quick access to highways for road trips

Cons

  • Limited dining and entertainment options
  • Less character than central or seaside neighborhoods
  • Further from major city attractions

Commodore Airport Hotel Christchurch – $$$

Commodore Airport Hotel Christchurch in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Commodore Airport Hotel Christchurch

Commodore Airport Hotel Christchurch is a longtime favorite, offering resort-style comfort just five minutes from the airport. With a free 24-hour shuttle, it’s a stress-free choice for late arrivals or early flights, while the peaceful native gardens give the property a surprisingly tranquil feel.

Rooms are spacious and light-filled, many with balconies or direct garden access, and come equipped with large work desks, Wi-Fi, and modern bathrooms. On-site amenities are impressive, including an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and fitness center. 

Patterson’s Restaurant serves creative seasonal dishes, while The Bar is perfect for casual drinks or catching a game on the big screen. Guests also appreciate the friendly service, free parking, and quick 15-minute trip into the CBD. Rates typically range from $280 to $560 NZD per night, depending on the room type.

Novotel Christchurch Airport – $$

Novotel Christchurch Airport in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Novotel Christchurch Airport

Novotel Christchurch Airport is the ultimate in convenience—located just steps from the terminal, you can walk off your flight and into your room in minutes. Rooms are modern and well-soundproofed, ensuring a quiet night despite the location, and come with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, desks, and tea and coffee facilities.

Guests can unwind at the fitness center or enjoy a meal at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves a mix of international and Kiwi dishes alongside vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. The bar is another highlight, offering creative drinks in a relaxed setting. 

Families will appreciate the indoor play area, while business travelers benefit from private check-in, concierge service, and an on-site business hub. Nightly rates generally fall between $250 and $500 NZD, depending on room type and season.

Airport Gateway Hotel – $

Airport Gateway Hotel in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Airport Gateway Hotel

Airport Gateway Hotel is a practical and budget-friendly choice just minutes from Christchurch Airport. With a free 24-hour shuttle and round-the-clock reception, it’s ideal for travelers arriving late or heading out early.

Guests can choose between spacious economy apartments with full kitchens or newer business studios with heat pumps, large TVs, and modern bathrooms. All units come with free unlimited Wi-Fi and Chromecast streaming, making it easy to stay connected. The on-site restaurant and bar serve meals from early morning through late evening, and 24-hour room service is also available.

Extra conveniences like free parking, long-term car storage (for a fee), and conference facilities add to its appeal. Rates typically range from $150 to $430 NZD per night, depending on the unit size.

Cashmere

Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps seen from Cashmere New Zealand
Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps

Just 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) southwest of the city center, Cashmere is a leafy hillside suburb that feels like an escape from urban life while still within easy reach of the CBD. Known for its elevated position, the area offers stunning views over Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, and even out to the Southern Alps on a clear day.

Cashmere is a fantastic base for outdoor enthusiasts. The suburb sits at the gateway to the Port Hills, where you’ll find some of the city’s best walking and biking trails, including the popular Crater Rim Track and Victoria Park. 

It’s also close to the Christchurch Adventure Park, perfect for mountain biking or ziplining. Despite its outdoorsy vibe, Cashmere has a refined side too, with a handful of well-regarded restaurants, bars, and cozy cafĆ©s dotted throughout the neighborhood. Many locals head here on weekends to enjoy the trails, grab brunch, or simply take in the views.

While it’s quieter than the central suburbs, the city center is only a 10–15 minute drive away, making it easy to combine nature and culture during your stay. Cashmere is best suited to couples, families, and anyone who wants a scenic, relaxed base for exploring Christchurch’s natural beauty.

Pros

  • Scenic hillside location with panoramic views
  • Excellent access to hiking and biking trails in the Port Hills
  • Peaceful, residential feel, but still close to the city

Cons

  • Limited accommodation options compared to the CBD or Riccarton
  • Requires a car for convenience, with fewer public transport links
  • Nightlife and shopping are minimal locally

Dyers House – $$$

Dyers House in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Dyers House

Dyers House is an elegant five-star bed and breakfast set in the peaceful hills of Cashmere, offering boutique charm with sweeping garden and mountain views. Each of the three individually designed rooms feels luxurious yet welcoming, with plush linens, heated bathrooms, rain showers, and thoughtful extras like bathrobes and premium toiletries.

Guests love the quiet, intimate atmosphere, whether relaxing on the sun terrace, wandering through the gardens, or enjoying a drink in the lounge. Breakfast is included, featuring fresh, locally inspired dishes to start the day on the right note. 

The property also provides free parking, laundry service, and family-friendly amenities, all with the warm hospitality of attentive hosts who go above and beyond. Rooms generally start around $400 NZD per night, making this a special stay for couples or travelers seeking comfort in a serene hillside setting.

Hackthorne Gardens Luxury Accommodation – $$

Hackthorne Gardens Luxury Accommodation in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Hackthorne Gardens Luxury Accommodation

Hackthorne Gardens Luxury Accommodation blends historic charm with modern comforts in the peaceful hills of Cashmere. Set in a nearly 100-year-old homestead surrounded by manicured gardens, the property offers an elegant retreat with sweeping views across Christchurch and the Southern Alps.

Rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with air-conditioning, kitchenettes, and luxury touches like bathrobes, underfloor-heated bathrooms, and streaming services. Guests also enjoy access to shared lounge spaces, a fitness center, and leafy outdoor seating areas—ideal for soaking up the quiet hillside setting.

The location combines tranquility with convenience: you’re only a 10-minute drive from the city center and close to trails in the Port Hills or attractions like the Christchurch Gondola. Nightly rates typically start from $160 NZD for a deluxe room and can reach $400+ NZD for larger suites.

Sumner

Sumner Beach, Christchurch
The stunning Sumner Beach!

Tucked along the coast about 20 minutes east of central Christchurch, Sumner is a seaside suburb that feels worlds apart from the bustle of the city. With its laid-back, small-town atmosphere, golden sand beach, and lively promenade, it’s a favorite weekend escape for both locals and visitors.

The beach is the main draw, offering safe swimming, surfing, and long walks along the shoreline. A cluster of cafƩs, ice cream shops, and relaxed restaurants line the esplanade, making it easy to spend an afternoon by the water without needing to head back into the city. The famous Cave Rock, a volcanic formation jutting into the sand, is a local landmark and a great spot to explore at low tide.

Sumner is also a handy base for exploring the nearby coastal tracks, such as the walk to Taylor’s Mistake or the Godley Head trail, both of which provide sweeping ocean views. While it’s not as connected to the CBD as other suburbs, the 20-minute drive makes it feasible for those who want a balance of city and sea.

Sumner is best for families, couples, and anyone who’d like a quieter, beachside stay with a distinctly Kiwi vibe.

Pros

  • Beachside location with small-town charm
  • Great for surfing, swimming, and coastal walks
  • Relaxed dining and family-friendly vibe

Cons

  • 20-minute drive from the CBD
  • Limited nightlife and shopping options
  • Fewer hotel choices compared to the central areas

340 Degrees Alps & Sea – $$

340 deg Alps & Sea in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: 340 Degrees Alps & Sea

For a boutique coastal escape, 340 Degrees Alps & Sea is a top choice in Sumner. This adults-only bed and breakfast sits high above the water, offering panoramic sea and mountain views that are hard to beat. Each suite features air-conditioning, a private balcony, and modern comforts like Wi-Fi and thoughtful amenities.

Mornings here start with a continental buffet breakfast, complete with fresh pastries, fruit, and juice, best enjoyed on the sun terrace or in the garden. Guests also appreciate extras like free private parking, room service, and cozy shared spaces, including an outdoor fireplace and lounge.

The location is ideal for couples, with the beach and Sumner’s cafĆ©s nearby, plus easy access to the Christchurch Gondola and coastal walking trails. Rates typically start around $250 NZD per night for a sea-view suite.

Cave Rock Guest House- $

Cave Rock Guest House in Christchurch New Zealand
Photo credit: Cave Rock Guest House

Cave Rock Guest House is all about location—set right on the beach in Sumner, it’s perfect for travelers who want to wake up to the sound of the waves. The property offers a mix of simple, comfortable rooms and apartments, many with sea views, air-conditioning, and handy extras like kitchenettes, tea and coffee makers, and TVs.

Guests can make the most of the outdoors with a sun terrace, picnic area, and barbecue facilities, or take a short stroll to the cafĆ©s and shops along Sumner Beach. Families appreciate the larger apartment options, while couples love the direct beachfront access and relaxed atmosphere. 

Free parking and Wi-Fi make it easy to settle in, and the Christchurch Gondola and city attractions are just a short drive away. Rates generally start around $140 NZD per night, making this a great budget-friendly seaside option.

Top Activities to do in Christchurch

The famous Christchurch Tram in New Zealand seen on a tour
The famous Christchurch Tram
The scenery at Arthur’s Pass is incredible!

Now that you’ve figured out where to stay, it’s time to plan what to do once you’re here! Below, I’ve picked out some of the best activities Christchurch has to offer! From scenic day trips to city highlights, these are my top recommendations to make the most of your time.

  • Christchurch Gondola – This really is a must-do! Riding the Christchurch Gondola is known for both the views and as transport to popular hikes on Mount Cavendish. If you don’t want to hike, stop at the cafe at the top and just enjoy the scenery!
  • Ride the TranzAlpine train – One of my favorite day trips, this scenic TranzAlpine train journey takes you to Arthur’s Pass. The scenery is incredible, and the train even has open-air viewing areas! Plus, there are guided walks and lot of time to explore.
  • Visit the International Antarctic Center – Take a glimpse into life in Antarctica! With this ticket, you’ll get to snuggle with Huskies, see blue penguins in the Penguin Rescue Center, and step inside the Storm Dome for a feel of the extreme cold!
  • Take the famous Tram – Create your own sightseeing route with this hop-on hop-off tram tour! You get to visit all Christchurch’s highlights with 18 stops and live commentary.
  • Go on a Lord of the Rings Tour – Most of the famous movie scenes were filmed on the South Island, and this full-day LOTR tour takes you to the area of Edoras! You’ll travel by 4×4 to the peak of Mt Sunday, get a picnic lunch, and pose with replica props.

Related Read: For even more ideas, check out my full list of the best things to do in Christchurch!

Renting a Car, Campervan, or Motorhome in New Zealand

Bailey stands and smiles with a JUCY Campervan New Zealand
Bailey sits in a Star RV campervan in New Zealand with mountain in the background-2

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 icon

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 icon

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 icon

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 organized a special discount code that will get you 5% off 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! This promotion is available for the entire year, except for travel dates from December 16, 2024 to January 19, 2025.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, I currently use and recommend SafetyWing. I’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had my back when I needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.

SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference I’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. I’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum and you get a refund for unused time.

SafetyWing has helped me out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given me peace of mind. Read my full review on if you should get travel insurance in NZ for more info!

Thanks for reading!

Bailey at the Christchurch Botanical Garden, in Christchurch, New Zealand
Thanks for reading!

No matter how long you’re staying in Christchurch, this guide will help you find a great base for your trip. I’ve stayed in different parts of Christchurch since moving to New Zealand, and each has its perks! Hopefully, my guide has helped you narrow it down to find the right one for you.

If you need help planning the rest of your trip, check out all of my South Island blogs! Whether you’re getting ready for an epic road trip, wondering where to find the best activities, or looking for tips on exploring New Zealand, I have blogs on it all! Here are a few you might be interested in:

17 Things to KNOW About Renting a Car in Christchurch

25 BEST Places to Visit on the South Island of New Zealand

Auckland to Christchurch Road Trip – Best Stops to Plan Your Itinerary

Let me HELP you plan your road trip!

Ebook example image

I’ve created this FREE e-book that is your COMPLETE GUIDE to planning a road trip in NZ! In the guide, you’ll find many different road trip itinerary ideas, so you can easily choose one that works for you!

The guide includes the best stops, attractions, road trip routes, and how much time you need!

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