Christchurch sits between the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean. It is the largest city in the South Island, the gateway to Canterbury and a destination that has reinvented itself with remarkable creativity.
Today, Christchurch combines heritage charm with modern energy. You’ll find beautiful gardens, excellent food, world-class street art, family-friendly attractions and easy access to some of the South Island’s most memorable day trips.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Christchurch, New Zealand?
The best things to do in Christchurch, New Zealand include visiting the Botanic Gardens, riding the Christchurch Tram, exploring the International Antarctic Centre, experiencing the TranzAlpine and taking day trips to Akaroa, Kaikōura and Arthur’s Pass.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Punting on the Avon
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are among the finest in the Southern Hemisphere.
Set within Hagley Park, the gardens cover 21 hectares and feature native bush, specialist plant collections, rose gardens and peaceful riverside paths. Entry is free, making this one of the easiest and most rewarding experiences in the city.
For a classic Christchurch moment, take a punt along the Ōtākaro Avon River. The gentle 30-minute journey passes through the gardens and offers one of the most relaxing ways to see the city.
Christchurch Tram
The beautifully restored Christchurch Tram is one of the best introductions to the city.
The loop passes Cathedral Square, the Arts Centre, Riverside Market and the Botanic Gardens. With hop-on, hop-off access, it’s a simple way to explore at your own pace.
The onboard commentary is also genuinely useful, offering insight into the city’s history, heritage buildings and post-earthquake transformation.
International Antarctic Centre
The International Antarctic Centre is one of Christchurch’s most distinctive attractions.
Christchurch is one of only a few international gateway cities to Antarctica, and this attraction brings that icy world to life. Visitors can experience an Antarctic storm simulation, meet rescued little blue penguins and ride in a Hāgglund amphibious vehicle.
It’s a highlight for families, but adults often enjoy it just as much.
Riverside Market
Set beside the Ōtākaro Avon River, Riverside Market captures Christchurch’s food scene at its best.
Open seven days a week, the market brings together fresh seafood, artisan cheese, coffee, baked goods, local wine and casual eateries under one roof.
It’s the kind of place where a quick visit can easily turn into an entire morning.
Street Art and the Rebuild
One of the unexpected legacies of the earthquakes is that Christchurch has become one of the world’s great street art cities.
Blank walls across the city were transformed by local and international artists, creating a colourful outdoor gallery throughout the CBD. Guided walking tours are available, or you can explore the laneways at your own pace.
The post-earthquake rebuild has also introduced striking modern architecture, creative public spaces and a renewed sense of city life.
The TranzAlpine
The TranzAlpine is one of New Zealand’s great rail journeys.
Departing from Christchurch, the train crosses the Canterbury Plains before climbing into the Southern Alps and travelling through the spectacular Waimakariri Gorge. The journey continues across alpine passes and down to Greymouth on the West Coast.
It takes around 4.5 hours each way, so many travellers complete the return journey in one long day. Others overnight on the West Coast before continuing to Franz Josef, Fox Glacier or Queenstown.
Day Trips from Christchurch
Christchurch is one of the best bases for exploring the wider Canterbury region.
Akaroa
Around 90 minutes from Christchurch, Akaroa is a charming harbour town on Banks Peninsula. It is known for its French colonial heritage, excellent food and wildlife experiences, including nature cruises and Hector’s dolphin encounters.
Kaikōura
Roughly two and a half hours north of Christchurch, Kaikōura is one of New Zealand’s best wildlife destinations. Whale watching, dolphin encounters, fur seals and fresh seafood make it well worth the journey.
Hanmer Springs
Around 90 minutes north of Christchurch, Hanmer Springs is famous for its thermal pools, mountain scenery and relaxed alpine village atmosphere.
Arthur’s Pass
Arthur’s Pass National Park lies around two hours west of Christchurch and offers dramatic alpine scenery, short walks and access to the Southern Alps.
How Long Should You Spend in Christchurch?
Two to three days is ideal.
This gives you time to:
- Explore the Botanic Gardens
- Ride the Christchurch Tram
- Visit the International Antarctic Centre
- Enjoy Riverside Market
- Take one or two day trips
Many travellers use Christchurch as the starting or finishing point for a South Island self-drive holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christchurch
Is Christchurch worth visiting?
Yes. Christchurch combines gardens, heritage attractions, excellent food, unique experiences and easy access to some of the South Island’s best scenery.
How many days should you spend in Christchurch?
Most visitors spend two to three days in Christchurch, allowing time to explore the city and take one or two day trips.
What is Christchurch best known for?
Christchurch is best known for its Botanic Gardens, the Christchurch Tram, punting on the Avon River, the International Antarctic Centre and its role as a gateway to the South Island.
Can you do a day trip from Christchurch?
Yes. Popular day trips from Christchurch include Akaroa, Kaikōura, Hanmer Springs and Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Ready to explore Christchurch and the South Island?
Browse our South Island holiday packages or speak to one of our New Zealand specialists today.