This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Most people don’t travel to New Zealand to hang around in urban areas, so if you’re wondering whether or not Christchurch is worth visiting, then I can’t say I blame you. And to help you find the answer, I’ve written this in-depth guide!
I live in New Zealand, so I have plenty of time to explore the country, and I know Christchurch well by this point. So, I’ll share the pros and cons of visiting Christchurch, as well as the best things to do, and where you could go afterwards. Let’s get into it!
What I love about Christchurch
It’s a really pretty city
Christchurch is a very picturesque city. It boasts street art, lush gardens, and colorful colonial-style buildings. Even the public transport here is quaint and cute, as there’s a heritage tramway in the city center (grab tram tickets here in advance!).
It’s a really vibrant city, and it’s also surrounded by a lot of natural beauty.
Great outdoor adventures at your fingertips
Christchurch may be a big city (well, by New Zealand standards, anyway!), but it’s the perfect base for outdoor adventures. There are tons of fantastic hikes close to the city, such as the Godley Head Loop Track, as well as plenty of wildlife – in fact, you can even head down the coast and go whale watching.
A convenient start point for your trip
Christchurch is a great place to begin a South Island road trip. There’s an international airport, so many people fly into Christchurch, and there are tons of car, campervan, and motorhome rental companies based in the city.
Since it’s a major city, there are tons of amenities here, so you can get yourself organized. It’s easy to stock up on all the things that you need for your trip, and you’ll usually be able to get them for a cheaper price here than out in more remote areas.
Related Read: Not sure what route to take? I have four favorite South Island road trips outlined here including options leaving from Christchurch!
5 Best Activities in Christchurch
Hike the Godley Head Trail
Godley Head is the perfect place to escape the city and explore nature. It’s absolutely stunning, and one of the best hikes on the South Island is located here.
The Godley Head Loop Track is a 9.3 km (5.8 mi) moderate walking track that should take 3 hours. The track boasts views of Christchurch, the Kaikoura Ranges, the Banks Peninsula, and many WWII historical sites. The track starts at Taylors Mistake Car Park, and near the beginning of the trail, you’ll see the remains of old cave houses built into the cliffs.
Gun platforms, observation posts, and the Godley Head coastal defense battery are the highlights of this track. Keep going and you’ll come to a viewpoint above Breeze Bay – look for dolphins and seals here!
The track is well signposted and is very popular during the summer. You can even stay overnight at the Godley Head Campsite, which has 25 tent sites (that you can drive to). Advance booking is required for $15 NZD per adult per night.
Ride the Christchurch Gondola
The Christchurch Gondola is one of my favorite ways to see the area. I’m sure you’ll be blown away by the views too, with Christchurch, Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour, and even the Southern Alps, all visible from the top.
The views on the way up are pretty spectacular with 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and Pegasus Bay. The whole journey in the cable car should take 10 minutes and each gondola fits four people.
Once you hop off the gondola at the top, 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 and it’s free with your gondola ticket.
If you’re a hiker, there are a couple of nice walking tracks on Mount Cavendish. One of the most popular is the Cavendish Bluff Lookout, which is a 1 hour and 20-minute moderate hike with great forest views. The Crater Rim Walkway is a bit longer at 4 hours and has spectacular views over Lyttleton Harbour along with unique hills formed from this area’s volcanic past.
A gondola ticket costs $42 NZD and I recommend booking your ticket in advance to save time.
Book Christchurch Gondola tickets online here and you can pay later!
International Antarctic Centre
The International Antarctic Center near Christchurch Airport is a 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 from 9 am to 5:30 pm. Ticket prices start from $64 NZD.
Book tickets to the Antarctic Center here and you’ll get FREE cancellation!
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are a great place for a walk on a nice day. The gardens are set up so that there’s always something in bloom. Grab a seasonal map as you go in to see what the highlights are when you go. The roses were spectacular the last time I visited!
You can also explore one of the many conservatories on-site to escape from the cold during the winter and in the summer, there’s a great playground and paddling pool for kids.
The Botanic Gardens Visitor Center is at the entrance to the gardens where you can grab a map or explore the cafe and gift shop. Entrance is free and the gardens are open from 7 am until late – closing time depends on the season.
Christchurch Adventure Park
This one is for the adrenaline junkies! Christchurch Adventure Park is actually one of the top places to zipline in New Zealand since it has multiple high-speed ziplines with views of the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean. That is, if you can see the views – you do go pretty fast on the zipline!
On this ziplining tour, you’ll get to experience the four ziplines at the park that are up to 150 meters (492 feet) in the air and reach speeds over 100 kph (62 mph)! The entire experience lasts 2.5 hours and costs $145 NZD. It’s a must if you’re all about trying fun (and a little scary) new activities!
Whilst you’re here, you can also try out the longest chairlift in New Zealand. It takes you to the start of the ziplining area, but you can choose to book this on its own as a sightseeing experience if ziplining isn’t for you.
Mountain biking is also extremely popular at Christchurch Adventure Park, with 46 different mountain bike trails, ranging from beginner-friendly trails to fast-paced technical trails. If you don’t have your own bike and gear, you can rent it here.
Book the epic ziplining experience at Christchurch Adventure Park here!
Best Day Trips from Christchurch
Whale watching in Kaikoura
Kaikoura is an amazing place to see whales, including orcas and magnificent sperm whales! Christchurch is a great base to visit from and the drive between Kaikoura and Christchurch is about 2.5 hours, which can be done in a day.
However, a tour makes it even easier since you won’t need to worry about transport. This full-day whale watching tour from Christchurch is easily one of the best options because you get to go on a whale-watching cruise and wine-tasting in one go!
Sperm whales can actually be seen year-round in Kaikoura. You’ll also have the chance to spot dusky dolphins, humpback whales, and southern right whales, depending on the time of year.
After the cruise, the tour heads to a local restaurant with mountain views, and then visits a New Zealand fur seal colony. When I went, I saw so many of them sunbathing and playing on the rocks! Last but not least, the tour ends with a wine tasting in a North Canterbury vineyard. The Pinot Noirs from this region are super light and fruity!
Tours include roundtrip transportation and cost $365 NZD or $400 NZD if you include lunch (otherwise, you can purchase off the menu).
Reserve your spot on this full-day tour to Kaikoura here!
Wine tasting in Waipara
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.
Not only is it absolutely beautiful, but it’s also home to some of the best wine I’ve ever had. The best way to check out many of these wineries (without having to drive) is on this half-day tour from Christchurch.
The tour takes you to 3-4 boutique vineyards to taste at least 15 different wines. You’ll learn all about how wine is grown in the scenic Waipara Valley and what makes it taste so good! Waipara is actually the fastest-growing wine valley in New Zealand, so a visit here really is a must for wine lovers.
I particularly enjoyed the Waipara Springs Winery. The setting was just so beautiful, and they even happened to have live musicians when I went. Overall, it was the perfect ambiance to sip on their refreshing Pinot Gris. The other wineries had delicious Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, and Reisling wines.
You can either depart at 12 pm and have lunch at one of the wineries for $170 NZD or you can skip the lunch and leave at 1 pm for $135 NZD. Both options include round-trip transport, and all wine tastings.
If you love wine, you can check availability and book this wine tour online here!
Akaroa
Akaroa is one of the most scenic towns on the South Island and is famed for its French heritage. The town is known for its beautiful harbor and Hector’s dolphins, but it’s also surrounded by natural attractions.
This full-day tour of Akaroa from Christchurch shows you some of the gorgeous spots around Akaroa including Governor’s Bay, Lake Ellesmere, and Lake Forsyth. You also get to head up the Banks Peninsula Volcano – don’t worry, it’s extinct! You’ll have views for days up here and see the amazing volcanic craters.
In the afternoon, you’ll take a 2-hour catamaran cruise of the Akaroa Harbor. For me, this is the highlight of this trip because you’ll have the chance to spot Hector’s dolphins! These are the smallest and rarest type of dolphins in the world, so this really is an amazing opportunity.
After the cruise, your group will enjoy a cheese tasting and then have free time to explore Akaroa. This tour includes transport and costs $260 NZD without lunch or you can include lunch for an extra $40 NZD.
Book one of my favorite day trips from Christchurch to Akaroa here!
Tips for Visiting Christchurch
When is the best time of year to visit Christchurch?
Summer in New Zealand is from December to February, and this is when Christchurch gets the best weather. With that being said, spring and fall are also great times of year to visit if you’d prefer to avoid the crowds and peak summer prices!
How many days do I need in Christchurch?
To be honest, you only really need a day or two in Christchurch. That’s enough time to get a feel for the city and enjoy its top attractions, especially if you’re going to be traveling to other places nearby.
Christchurch may be one of New Zealand’s biggest cities, but it’s actually quite small by international standards, so it doesn’t take that long to explore. I’ve even got a 1-day Christchurch itinerary that will help you hit all the highlights!
What’s the best way to get around the city?
Honestly, I think that the tram is the best way to get around Christchurch! It covers all of the city’s main tourist attractions and is a super easy and efficient way to see the city, especially if you’re only here for a day or two. You can buy tram tickets online in advance!
It’s also a very walkable city, and it’s bike-friendly, too. There’s a reliable bus network, and I find that driving here is pretty straightforward, although to be honest the public transport is so good that you don’t need to.
Why you shouldn’t visit Christchurch
Christchurch is a cool city, and I enjoy spending time here, but if you only have a short time in New Zealand then there are definitely better places to explore!
It makes a great starting point for a South Island road trip, but New Zealand is home to so many unique and breathtaking locations that I think spending too long in a city would be a waste of time. Don’t miss out on somewhere like Milford Sound or Franz Josef in favor of Christchurch!
Related Read: If Milford Sound is on your to-do list (and it should be!), I have guides on getting from Christchurch to Milford Sound and the best Milford Sound cruises!
Is Christchurch Worth Visiting?
Yes, it’s worth spending a couple of days here. There are still some unique things to see and as I say, it is a lovely city. If you don’t have much time, my 1-day Christchurch itinerary hits all the highlights!
It’s a great starting (or finishing) point for exploring the South Island, and it can also be a good base for day trips to places like the Waipara and Kaikoura!
Where to Go After Christchurch
Mount Cook National Park
Mount Cook National Park is easily one of my favorite destinations in New Zealand because there are just so many adventures here. Many of the country’s most stunning hikes are here in Mount Cook, but it also offers glacier kayaking, skydiving, and heli-skiing!
It takes about 4 hours to drive to Mount Cook National Park from Christchurch, but I would actually advise you to set aside an entire day for the journey because it’s a truly epic road trip. There are tons of incredible stops on the way, including Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, and NZ Alpine Lavender. And make sure to stop and snap the famous Mount Cook road photo on your way into the park!
If you’d rather take a day trip, this tour from Christchurch to Mount Cook is my pick. It, of course, goes to Mount Cook, but along the way, there are so many scenic stops at lakes, mountains, and lavender fields, your camera roll will be full!
The day starts with pickup at your Christchurch hotel before transporting you to some of the region’s most stunning landscapes in Geraldine, Lake Pukaki, Blue Lakes, and Tasman Glacier. You’ll also have the option to enjoy a delicious lunch at the Hermitage Hotel in Mount Cook National Park. This is a highly-rated tour with hundreds of 5-star reviews starting at only $249 NZD. Book it here!
Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is pretty much right in the middle of the South Island, so it’s a convenient stop on most road trips … and more than that, it’s also home to gorgeous scenery and lots of fun things to do!
This stargazing tour is a real must-do while you’re here, as Lake Tekapo is within a dark sky reserve, and I also recommend a trip to the hot springs.
There are two ways to get to Lake Tekapo from Christchurch: the direct route or the scenic route. The direct route takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes, while the scenic route adds an 25 extra minutes. I recommend the latter because there are more interesting stops! See both routes and the stops I like in my road trip guide for Christchurch to Lake Tekapo.
Queenstown
Of course, my beloved Queenstown is a must-visit while you’re on the South Island! It’s 6 hours from Christchurch, so you can drive directly between the two, but since Queenstown also has an international airport, it’s also possible to use these two destinations as start and end points when planning a road trip.
There is SO much to do in Queenstown – hence why I moved here! From cruising across Lake Wakatipu, riding the gondola up to Bob’s Peak, and jet boating through Shotover Canyon, there are so many exciting ways to take in the gorgeous scenery here. I also love the food and nightlife, and as if that weren’t enough, there are plenty of fantastic day trips to enjoy.
The Catlins
The Catlins is a wild and rugged area on the southeast corner of the South Island. It takes about 6.5 hours to drive here from Christchurch, but trust me, the drive is so worth it for those who like to get off the beaten track and explore remote areas.
There are lots of pretty waterfalls here, as well as plenty of lookout points and exciting hiking trails. I spent a few days camping here in a motorhome, but it’s also possible to explore with a rental car.
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.
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!
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!
I hope my blog helped you decide if Christchurch is worth visiting on your trip to New Zealand! I think it’s worth spending a day or two – especially if you’re flying into Christchurch. Then it’s a great spot to start a road trip or explore some of the amazing destinations nearby.
If you’re planning to visit, check out all my blogs on Christchurch or the entire South Island section! New Zealand has a piece of my heart and I’m sure you will love it here.
27 Free and Cheap Things to do in Christchurch, New Zealand
North Island VS South Island of New Zealand – Which is Better?