This vibrant, modern city offers spectacular culture, heritage, and nightlife – and has the world’s most stunning scenery, right on its doorstep.
More than a decade after two earthquakes devastated central Christchurch, the city is being rebuilt and reimagined. Many of the eye-catching blue stone heritage buildings may have gone, but in their place are new spaces, designed for modern city living – including more green spaces in the city centre, with the biggest being a swath of land twice the size of Central Park.
Christchurch's central city is a hub of street art, fine art and all things artistic. Explore Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū(opens in new window) and Centre of Contemporary Art (CoCA)(opens in new window) to see their range of artwork, talks, film and live performances. Enjoy a film at Lumière cinemas(opens in new window), housed within the Christchurch Art Centre(opens in new window). From hidden gems to beautiful murals, discover everything Christchurch has to offer.
The city's hospitality scene is constantly evolving, always giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Get your morning started at places like Child Sister(opens in new window), Doubles Café(opens in new window) and West End Stories(opens in new window) for some great coffee and breakfast options, or grab some delicious sweet treats at Grizzly Baked Goods(opens in new window).
Featuring multiple eateries, the Little High Eatery(opens in new window) is a unique dining destination in the heart of Christchurch. The city is known for its contemporary takes on cuisine. If you're looking to try something new, visit King of Snake(opens in new window) which offers the best of Euro-Asian cuisine in a stunning setting. The city has plenty of places where you can drink and party. Those looking for a night out with a great view should check out Mr. Brightside(opens in new window) or Pink Lady rooftop(opens in new window) bars.
For a mid-sized city, Christchurch has a surprisingly long hitlist of unmissable attractions. Partly thanks to the location. The region stretches from the coastline of Banks Peninsula, across the Canterbury Plains, and ends at the Southern Alps. To see Banks Peninsula, head out to Akaroa or Lyttelton. These superb coastal towns offer plenty of things to see and do, along with superb cafes and restaurants. Or head inland with the TranzAlpine train, which runs from Christchurch to the West Coast, via the Southern Alps. For a trip that combines coast and alpine regions, drive the Alpine Pacific Touring Route, which goes along the east coast to Kaikōura, then inland to the mountains of Hurunui.
Christchurch is the ultimate family destination. For once in a lifetime nature experiences, visit the Pōhatu Penguins or join Black Cat Cruises to swim with Hector’s Dolphins. To see the city’s best sights, take a Christchurch Tram or the Gondola to the Port Hills. Or for the next best thing to Antarctica, visit the International Antarctic Centre.
