Christchurch is a city that has transformed tragedy into triumph.
After the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, New Zealand’s second-largest city didn’t just rebuild. It reimagined itself as a vibrant, forward-thinking destination that honors its heritage while embracing innovation.
Today, visitors discover a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary creativity, where Victorian architecture sits alongside bold modern structures, and world-class gardens meet cutting-edge attractions.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, peaceful natural escapes, family-friendly activities, or romantic experiences, the things to do in Christchurch cater to every type of traveler.
This comprehensive guide explores the best things to do in Christchurch, from iconic attractions to hidden gems that locals love.
Experience Christchurch’s Iconic Heritage Tram
One of the most delightful ways to explore the city is aboard the historic Christchurch Tram. These beautifully restored Edwardian-era trams trundle through the central city, offering visitors a charming perspective on the best things to do in Christchurch.
The hop-on, hop-off service allows you to create your own itinerary, stopping at 18 key attractions throughout the day. The tram route passes through Cathedral Square, New Regent Street, the Arts Centre, and Riverside Market.
What makes this experience special is the live commentary from knowledgeable drivers who share fascinating stories about the city’s history, architecture, and earthquake recovery. The warm wooden interiors and original signage transport you back to a bygone era.
An all-day tram pass gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can start your morning at the Botanic Gardens, hop off for lunch at Riverside Market, and finish your afternoon shopping along New Regent Street’s colorful Spanish Mission-style buildings.
For visitors who want to maximize their time, the tram connects seamlessly with other major attractions, making it one of the most practical things to do in Christchurch for first-time visitors.
Glide Through the Botanic Gardens on a Punt
Punting on the Avon River is quintessentially Christchurch. This peaceful activity ranks among the best things to do in Christchurch for couples seeking romance and families wanting a relaxing experience.
Your punter, dressed in traditional Edwardian attire, expertly propels the flat-bottomed boat along the gentle waters using a long pole. You’ll glide past weeping willows, vibrant flora, and historic buildings while learning about the city’s heritage.
Two departure points offer different experiences. Punts from the historic Antigua Boat Sheds journey through the tranquil Christchurch Botanic Gardens, showcasing 30 hectares of native and exotic plantings.
The alternative Worcester Bridge location takes you through the central city, past Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, the Town Hall, and Victoria Square.
The standard 30-minute shared tours accommodate up to eight people and require advance booking. Blankets, umbrellas, and hot water bottles are provided during cooler weather, making this an all-season activity.
For a more intimate experience, private 45-minute tours are available for couples celebrating special occasions or families who prefer their own space.
Soar to New Heights on the Christchurch Gondola
The Christchurch Gondola delivers breathtaking 360-degree panoramas that showcase why this ranks among the fun things to do in Christchurch for visitors of all ages.
The cable car ascends Mount Cavendish in the Port Hills, rising to an elevation that reveals stunning views across the city, Lyttelton Harbour, the Canterbury Plains, and the Southern Alps on clear days.
At the summit complex, you’ll find multiple ways to spend your time. The Time Tunnel ride offers an engaging multimedia journey through the region’s geological and cultural history, from volcanic origins to Maori settlement and European colonization.
Several walking tracks of varying difficulty radiate from the summit. The Crater Rim Walkway provides spectacular views and takes approximately two hours to complete. For families with young children, shorter walks offer equally impressive vistas without the commitment.
The summit cafe serves coffee and meals with unbeatable views, while the gift shop stocks locally made crafts and souvenirs. Photography enthusiasts should time their visit for golden hour when the setting sun bathes the landscape in warm light.
A visit to the gondola typically requires two to three hours, including the 15-minute drive from central Christchurch. Public bus Route 8 provides convenient access for those without vehicles.
Explore the Magnificent Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens represent 160 years of horticultural excellence and provide one of the most peaceful things to do in Christchurch at night or during the day.
Established in 1863 with the planting of a single English oak to commemorate a royal wedding, these gardens have grown into a 30-hectare showcase of botanical diversity.
The gardens feature distinct themed sections, each offering unique experiences. The Rose Garden displays hundreds of varieties in stunning seasonal displays, while the New Zealand Native Plant Collection showcases the country’s unique flora.
The towering redwood trees create a cathedral-like atmosphere, and the Water Garden’s lily ponds and fountains provide tranquil spots for reflection. Don’t miss the conservatories, which house tropical plants and seasonal displays.
The gardens serve as a living museum, with specimens collected from around the world. Educational signage helps visitors understand plant origins, growing conditions, and conservation efforts.
Entry is completely free, making this an excellent budget-friendly option. The gardens open daily from dawn until one hour before dusk, with varying seasonal hours.
For the best experience, visit in spring when cherry blossoms create clouds of pink petals, or autumn when deciduous trees paint the landscape in gold and crimson.
Discover Antarctica at the International Antarctic Centre
The International Antarctic Centre offers one of the most unique things to do in Christchurch, especially for families and anyone fascinated by the frozen continent.
Christchurch serves as one of five gateway cities to Antarctica, and this award-winning attraction brings Antarctic experiences to life without the journey south.
The Storm Dome simulates genuine Antarctic weather conditions, including bone-chilling temperatures and fierce winds that demonstrate the challenges faced by researchers and explorers. You’ll genuinely feel what negative temperatures do to exposed skin.
The Penguin Rescue Centre houses blue penguins that are being rehabilitated. Daily feeding sessions allow you to observe these charming creatures up close while learning about conservation efforts protecting their wild populations.
The Hagglund Ride provides a thrilling experience aboard an all-terrain Antarctic vehicle. These amphibious machines navigate rough terrain and water, demonstrating their versatility in polar conditions.
The 4D theatre experience combines stunning cinematography with sensory effects that immerse you in Antarctic landscapes. You’ll feel spray, wind, and movement as you journey across ice shelves and through penguin colonies.
A cuddle zone featuring fluffy huskies delights visitors of all ages. These dogs were historically essential for Antarctic exploration, pulling sleds across vast ice fields.
Plan to spend two to three hours exploring all attractions. The centre is located near Christchurch Airport, making it convenient for those with flights or beginning South Island road trips.
Learn Resilience at Quake City
Understanding the Canterbury earthquakes provides essential context for appreciating modern Christchurch. Quake City, now housed within Canterbury Museum, tells the powerful story of the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes that reshaped the city.
The February 22, 2011 earthquake measured 6.3 in magnitude but caused devastating damage due to its shallow depth and proximity to the central business district. The temblor claimed 185 lives and destroyed thousands of buildings, including many historic structures.
Interactive exhibits help visitors understand earthquake science, liquefaction, and the engineering challenges faced during rebuilding. You can feel the sensation of earthquake motion through simulators and view video footage captured during the actual events.
Personal stories from survivors, first responders, and community members add human dimension to the statistical data. These accounts highlight both the tragedy and the remarkable community spirit that emerged.
The exhibition displays artifacts from destroyed buildings, including pieces of the ChristChurch Cathedral spire and items recovered from collapsed structures. These tangible remnants make the earthquake’s impact viscerally real.
Children particularly engage with the interactive elements, including touchscreens, physical models, and hands-on demonstrations. The exhibition successfully educates without overwhelming younger visitors.
Admission is reasonable, and the experience typically takes 45 minutes to an hour. This is an essential context for understanding the city’s transformation and resilience.
Experience Wildlife at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve provides one of the best things to do in Christchurch for animal lovers and families seeking interactive experiences with New Zealand’s unique fauna.
The reserve showcases New Zealand’s Big Five: the kea (alpine parrot), kaka (forest parrot), tuatara (ancient reptile), kiwi, and takahe (flightless bird). Seeing all five in one location saves considerable travel time across the country.
The nocturnal kiwi house offers a 100% guarantee you’ll see these iconic birds. The darkened environment allows these nocturnal creatures to exhibit natural behaviors during daytime visits, providing rare viewing opportunities.
Beyond native species, the reserve houses exotic animals and farm animals that children can feed and interact with. Alpacas, goats, and deer eagerly approach visitors with food pellets available for purchase.
The Ko Tane Maori cultural experience, available in the evening, combines traditional performances with the wildlife reserve visit. You’ll learn about the deep connections between Maori culture and the natural environment.
Educational presentations throughout the day explain conservation challenges facing New Zealand’s endemic species and the efforts to protect them from introduced predators and habitat loss.
The reserve occupies a manageable size, making it perfect for families with young children who might struggle with larger facilities. Most visitors spend 90 minutes to two hours exploring.
Adventure at Christchurch Adventure Park
For adrenaline seekers wondering about fun things to do in Christchurch for young adults, the Christchurch Adventure Park delivers thrilling experiences against stunning Port Hills scenery.
The park specializes in mountain biking, with trails ranging from beginner-friendly paths to expert-level technical descents. The chairlift carries you and your bike to the summit, eliminating the grueling climb and maximizing your downhill riding time.
Mountain bike rentals and protective equipment are available on-site, making the park accessible even for visitors without their own gear. Instructors offer lessons for those new to the sport or wanting to improve specific skills.
The zipline course provides an alternative adventure for those less interested in biking. Multiple lines of varying lengths and heights create an aerial journey through the forest canopy, with spectacular views as a bonus.
Walking trails accommodate visitors who prefer exploring on foot. The fairy door trail near the base particularly delights younger children, who can search for tiny doors hidden among tree roots and rocks.
The summit features viewing platforms, picnic areas, and photo opportunities. Even riding the chairlift up and walking down provides a satisfying experience for those wanting to enjoy the scenery without intense physical activity.
The park cafe serves coffee, light meals, and snacks, with outdoor seating overlooking the valley below. This makes an excellent lunch stop during a day of adventure.
Indulge at Riverside Market
Foodies exploring things to do in Christchurch inevitably discover Riverside Market, a food hall that showcases the region’s culinary excellence under one stylish roof.
Forty carefully curated vendors occupy this beautifully designed space, offering everything from organic produce to artisan chocolates, freshly baked goods to specialty coffee, and international cuisines to local delicacies.
The market emphasizes quality ingredients and sustainable practices. Many vendors source directly from Canterbury farms, ensuring freshness while supporting local agriculture.
Must-try items include sheep’s milk gelato that rivals anything found in Italy, Argentinian-style slow-cooked beef that melts on your tongue, and the legendary cookie pie that defies description beyond pure indulgence.
The seafood vendor displays daily catches from local waters, while the butcher offers premium New Zealand lamb and beef. Cheesemakers provide samples of locally produced cheeses ranging from mild to intensely flavored varieties.
Coffee roasters prepare espresso drinks using beans roasted on-site, and bakeries display croissants, sourdough loaves, and pastries that disappear quickly each morning.
The market’s riverside location makes it perfect for grabbing provisions for a picnic in the nearby Botanic Gardens. Seating areas accommodate those wanting to dine on-site while people-watching through large windows.
Weekend visits tend to be busiest, while weekday mornings offer a more relaxed shopping experience. The market opens daily, making it accessible whenever hunger strikes.
Discover Street Art and Culture
Christchurch’s earthquake recovery sparked a creative renaissance that transformed blank walls into outdoor galleries. Exploring the street art trail represents one of the most culturally enriching things to do in Christchurch for free.
The city actively encourages street art as part of its identity. International and local artists have created stunning murals across the central city, particularly around High Street, Manchester Street, and surrounding laneways.
Themes range from abstract geometric designs to portraits of cultural icons, from environmental messages to celebrations of New Zealand’s unique character. Each artwork tells a story about the city’s past, present, or aspirations.
The Riverside Market area features particularly impressive pieces, with entire building facades transformed into colorful masterpieces. Photography enthusiasts will find endless subjects, especially during golden hour when angled sunlight enhances colors and creates dramatic shadows.
New Regent Street offers a different aesthetic with its Spanish Mission architecture painted in pastel pinks, blues, and yellows. This pedestrian-friendly street houses boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants beneath heritage arcades.
Self-guided street art tours allow you to explore at your own pace, while guided tours provide context about artists, techniques, and the stories behind specific pieces. Many tour companies offer these experiences as part of broader city explorations.
The ever-changing nature of street art means returning visitors always discover new pieces, making this an experience that rewards repeated visits.
Explore Banks Peninsula and Akaroa
A day trip to Akaroa on Banks Peninsula ranks among the best things to do in Christchurch when you have time to venture beyond the city limits.
The scenic 90-minute drive winds through farmland before ascending into the hills, revealing dramatic coastal vistas. The peninsula’s volcanic origins create a landscape of deep bays, steep hillsides, and rugged coastline.
Akaroa retains its French heritage from the 1840s settlement attempt, with street names, architecture, and cafe offerings reflecting this unique history. The picturesque village invites leisurely strolling past historic cottages, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants.
The main attraction is encountering Hector’s dolphins, the world’s smallest dolphin species found only in New Zealand waters. Multiple operators offer tours that combine harbor cruising with swimming opportunities alongside these playful marine mammals.
Black Cat Cruises provides wildlife viewing from the boat, perfect for those preferring to stay dry while still experiencing close dolphin encounters. Seals, penguins, and seabirds frequently appear during these cruises.
Pohatu Penguins offers sea kayaking adventures in remote bays where Little Blue Penguins nest. These guided tours combine adventure with conservation education, supporting ongoing protection efforts.
The village offers numerous lunch options, from fish and chips on the wharf to fine dining featuring local seafood and Canterbury wines. Many restaurants provide outdoor seating with harbor views.
Allow a full day for this excursion, departing Christchurch by mid-morning and returning in late afternoon. The journey itself provides memorable scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Relax at He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools
After days of exploration, He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools in New Brighton offers one of the most rejuvenating things to do in Christchurch at night or following outdoor adventures.
These coastal hot pools provide a uniquely New Zealand experience, combining thermal bathing with ocean views. Five pools maintain different temperatures, ranging from warm to genuinely hot, allowing you to find your perfect comfort level.
The aqua therapy pool features jets designed to massage tired muscles, while the hexagonal pools accommodate families and groups. Rock pools create a more naturalistic setting, and the plunge pool offers brave souls a cold-water contrast.
Children enjoy the warmth after playing in the adjacent playground or exploring New Brighton Beach. Parents appreciate the separate temperature zones that keep everyone happy.
Advance booking is essential, particularly during peak times and weekends. Sessions are time-limited to ensure all visitors get access during busy periods.
Christchurch residents receive discounted rates, but visitor pricing remains reasonable considering the quality of the facility and the experience offered.
The pools operate year-round, with winter visits providing the most dramatic temperature contrast between hot water and cool air. Summer evenings offer the pleasure of watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean while soaking.
New Brighton’s beachside location makes this easily combined with seaside dining or a walk along the pier. Several good restaurants and cafes operate nearby.
Take the TranzAlpine Scenic Train Journey
While technically a day trip, the TranzAlpine train journey stands as one of the most spectacular things to do in Christchurch blog posts consistently recommending.
This world-renowned rail journey traverses Arthur’s Pass National Park, connecting Christchurch with the West Coast town of Greymouth. The route showcases New Zealand’s dramatic landscape transitions from farmland to alpine peaks to temperate rainforest.
The journey takes approximately four and a half hours each way, with the option to return the same day or continue exploring the West Coast. Large windows and open-air viewing carriages ensure you don’t miss any spectacular vistas.
Highlights include the Canterbury Plains’ patchwork farmland, the dramatic gorges carved by the Waimakariri River, snow-capped Southern Alps peaks, and the descent through lush native forest toward the coast.
The train crosses numerous viaducts and passes through tunnels carved through solid rock. Engineering achievements blend with natural beauty, creating a journey that appeals to both technology enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Commentary provides context about the landscape, history, and points of interest. The cafe car serves snacks, meals, and beverages, though many travelers bring picnic provisions from Riverside Market.
Booking several weeks in advance ensures seat availability, particularly during summer months when this ranks among the most popular activities. Window seats on the right side heading west offer slightly better views of most dramatic scenery.
The trip requires commitment of a full day, but provides an unforgettable experience and bragging rights for completing one of the world’s great train journeys.
Enjoy Family Fun at Margaret Mahy Playground
Families seeking things to do in Christchurch as a family invariably end up at Margaret Mahy Playground, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest inner-city playground.
Named after the beloved New Zealand children’s author, this expansive playground occupies riverside land in the central city. Its design incorporates Christchurch’s earthquake recovery story while providing countless hours of entertainment.
The playground features distinct zones catering to different age groups. Toddlers enjoy age-appropriate equipment in safely enclosed areas, while older children challenge themselves on climbing structures, flying foxes, and adventure elements.
The water play area operates during warmer months, with jets, fountains, and water channels allowing children to splash and cool off. Parents appreciate the splash pad’s design, which allows supervision without getting wet themselves.
Swings accommodate everyone from babies to adults, and the musical instruments allow creative play and noise-making that parents tolerate better outdoors. Covered areas provide shade and shelter, making the playground usable in various weather conditions.
Multiple entrances and the sprawling layout mean the playground rarely feels crowded despite its popularity. Families easily spend two to three hours here, especially when combined with a riverside walk or picnic.
The playground’s central location makes it easily accessible by tram, with nearby parking for those driving. Riverside Market sits close enough for quick lunch or snack runs without young children needing to walk far.
Free entry removes financial barriers, making this an excellent budget-friendly option for families traveling with children who need to burn energy.
Experience Christchurch’s Vibrant Nightlife
When exploring things to do in Christchurch at night for couples and young adults, the city offers diverse options from sophisticated to casual.
The Terrace along Oxford Terrace and nearby streets features numerous bars and restaurants. Kong serves creative cocktails in stylish surroundings, while Mr. Brightside provides rooftop views perfect for sundowners.
Fat Eddies hosts live jazz performances that create an intimate atmosphere for music lovers. The venue attracts quality musicians and draws crowds who appreciate skillful performances.
For those wanting something different, escape rooms throughout the central city challenge couples and groups to solve puzzles while racing against time. Codebreakers incorporate virtual and augmented reality elements into their experiences.
The Isaac Theatre Royal and The Piano host theatrical performances, concerts, and other cultural events. Checking their schedules reveals opportunities to catch local and international acts.
Alice Cinema offers an alternative to mainstream movie theaters, screening art house films, documentaries, and independent productions in an intimate setting within the historic Old Post Office building.
Galaxy Arcade attracts competitive couples with classic arcade games including Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and pinball machines. The retro atmosphere adds nostalgic charm to date nights.
The Christchurch Art Gallery remains open until 9pm on Wednesdays, allowing culture enthusiasts to combine gallery browsing with dinner at The Thirsty Peacock restaurant inside.
For quieter evenings, late-night punting during summer months offers romantic river journeys under the stars. The peaceful water, historic buildings illuminated at night, and intimate atmosphere create memorable experiences.
Visit the Canterbury Museum
History enthusiasts discovering best things to do in Christchurch city shouldn’t miss the Canterbury Museum, which houses extensive collections spanning natural history, cultural heritage, and Antarctic exploration.
The Maori galleries showcase taonga (treasures) including intricately carved wharenui (meeting houses), weapons, tools, and personal ornaments that reveal traditional life and artistry. These collections honor the tangata whenua (people of the land) and their deep connections to the region.
The Antarctic gallery explores Christchurch’s role as a gateway to the frozen continent, featuring equipment from historic expeditions, wildlife specimens, and multimedia presentations about modern scientific research.
The Discovery Centre engages children with hands-on exhibits about natural history, geology, and cultural artifacts. Interactive elements encourage learning through play, making this museum particularly family-friendly.
The Victorian Street recreates 19th-century Christchurch life with shop fronts, domestic interiors, and street scenes that transport visitors to the colonial era. Period furnishings and artifacts create an immersive historical experience.
Natural history galleries display specimens of New Zealand’s unique fauna, including moa skeletons, which show the scale of these extinct giant birds. Geological displays explain the region’s formation and ongoing earthquake activity.
The museum operates on a koha (donation) basis, making it accessible to all visitors regardless of budget. Most people contribute what they consider appropriate, typically similar to standard admission fees elsewhere.
Christchurch offers an extraordinary variety of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests and budget. The city’s remarkable recovery from devastating earthquakes has created a destination that honors its heritage while embracing innovation and creativity.
From gliding along the Avon River in an Edwardian punt to racing down mountain bike trails, from exploring world-class gardens to learning about Antarctic expeditions, the things to do in Christchurch provide depth and diversity that rewards extended stays.
Conclusion
Christchurch is a city that beautifully combines history, nature, and creativity. From peaceful gardens and fun family attractions to unique adventures, there’s something for everyone here. You’ll find the perfect balance between relaxation and exploration.
After rising stronger from its past, Christchurch welcomes visitors with warmth and pride. Every corner tells a story whether it’s the laughter from Riverside Market, the calm of the Avon River, or the colors of street art around the city.
No matter how long you stay, Christchurch leaves a lasting impression. It’s more than a destination, it’s an experience full of heart, beauty, and inspiration that you’ll want to return to again.
FAQs
1. What is Christchurch famous for?
Christchurch is known as New Zealand’s “Garden City,” famous for its Botanic Gardens, Avon River punting, and creative urban design.
2. What is the best time to visit Christchurch?
Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) offer mild weather, colorful scenery, and fewer crowds.
3. How many days do you need in Christchurch?
Spend at least 2–3 days to explore the main attractions, and add a day for a trip to Akaroa or the TranzAlpine train.
4. Is Christchurch family-friendly?
Yes, it’s perfect for families with playgrounds, wildlife parks, gondola rides, and fun markets for all ages.
5. Can you get around Christchurch without a car?
Absolutely. The city is walkable, and you can use trams, buses, or guided tours to reach most attractions easily.
