Christchurch, on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, is a city of creativity and surprise. Ravaged by earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, the town of almost 400,000 has been rebuilding ever since, never lacking in imagination. The result is a city where it's easy to stroll and discover the many facets of its architecture, museums, lifestyle and green spaces. Christchurch is, in fact, nicknamed the Garden City. New Zealand is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, so here are 15 must-sees in the dynamic city of Christchurch.
1. Stroll along the Avon River
One of the first things to do in Christchurch is to take a punt on the River Avon. It's a very pleasant ride, with sections in leafy corners and others in the heart of the city. It's an excellent way to discover the landmarks of New Zealand's second-largest city. The tour is led by a guide in Edwardian costume, who moves the boat with the aid of a pole. An absolutely delightful experience.
Book now: want to enjoy the city without breaking the bank? We recommend you book this combined ticket including the vintage streetcar tour, a trip on the River Avon in a flat-bottomed boat and the Gondola cable car ride.
Petit Futé tip: Take advantage of a discount by booking your travel insurancehere , and leave with peace of mind! Don't forget to apply for your visa right here to prepare for your trip.
2. Coffee on New Regent Street
The charm of this central Christchurch street is immediately apparent! Visitors discover a picturesque 1930s thoroughfare where colonial architecture and Art Deco blend harmoniously. You'll fall in love with the pastel-colored facades: blue, yellow and green. The street is brimming with boutiques and lively café terraces where you can soak up the sun. The old tramway crosses New Regent Street, another not-to-be-missed experience in the Garden City.
Book a guided tour explore Christchurch by booking this guided tour on a vintage tramway with multiple stops. You hop on and off whenever you like on a route that takes you to the city's main attractions and landmarks.
3. A visit to the Canterbury Museum
The Canterbury Museum is housed in a beautiful, historic mid-twentieth-century building. It's a must if you want to get to know New Zealand, with exhibits on the themes of nature, history and people. On display are insects, the bones of the largest bird ever to live on Earth, the moa, and Asian art objects. Diverse themes that make this place so original. A good idea for an activity to do in Christchurch, and a destination of choice for perfecting your English when it's raining.
4. A stroll through Hagley Park and the Botanical Gardens
Christchurch isn't called the Garden City for nothing! Hagley Park is the place to go for a stroll in the greenery, a running session, a picnic or to watch a cricket or rugby match in the stadium. The Botanical Gardens are another not-to-be-missed part of the park. Here, you'll discover a multitude of paths through various species of trees. There are plenty of intimate corners to discover. There are also several greenhouses to visit to see plant species from different environments.
What you need to know if you'd like to opt for a customized New Zealand travel itinerary, we recommend you request your free quote right here. A tailor-made, responsible trip, direct with the best local agencies, awaits you!
5. Take a stroll through the Riverside Market
The Riverside Market is a place like no other, mixing food, shopping and cultural activities. A hybrid space where you can discover the stalls of local producers, clothing shops and enjoy a drink or lunch in one of the restaurants. Some evenings are devoted to music concerts. A great opportunity to discover local talent. The Riverside Market is a trendy place that brings locals and visitors together in a friendly, gourmet atmosphere.
6. See the cathedrals, a must-see in Christchurch
Christchurch's Anglican cathedral was seriously damaged in the earthquakes. It is currently being rebuilt, and visitors can get up close to see the remains. Just around the corner, an original transitional cathedral has been built for religious services. This is the Cardboard Cathedral, erected in 2013. Triangular in shape, its interior and main façade are astonishing. A visit is a must! Especially as we don't know if the building will be preserved once the main cathedral is rebuilt.
7. Admire the street art
Christchurch, among the top destinations for a trip in June 2025, is one of the places to visit at all costs in New Zealand if you're passionate about street art. Although the city sometimes resembles a gigantic reconstruction site, artists never lack imagination when it comes to embellishing streets and monument facades. As you stroll through the city's different districts, you'll come across numerous giant frescoes that colour the atmosphere, with animals or characters that refer to the local culture. A camera is a must.
8. Take a tour of the Christchurch Arts Centre
This collection of black stone Gothic buildings was once part of the University of Canterbury. They are among the city's most attractive buildings and have been converted into the Arts Centre. Here you'll find trendy cafés, craft stores and a place where art is expressed in its many forms. You can come to see an exhibition, attend a workshop or film screening, see a concert or take part in a festival. It's another place where you can see that creation is never-ending in Christchurch.
9. Spend some time at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
It's hard to separate New Zealand from its wildlife. In Christchurch, travelers can take the opportunity to spend some time at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, a nature reserve dedicated to New Zealand's wildlife. You'll find lemurs, monkeys, iguanas, deer, many birds and the star of the show, the kiwi! Families can attend animal feeding sessions, and there are plenty of activities on offer for children. A must when visiting Christchurch with the family.
10. Art time at the Christchurch Art Gallery
This building is distinguished by its contemporary architecture, wave-shaped and entirely glazed. It's another not-to-be-missed venue for art lovers, who can not only be seduced by its layout and interior design, but also admire both contemporary and more classical works of art. Here you can discover the creations of emerging names as well as those of renowned artists. The Christchurch Art Gallery hosts temporary exhibitions and numerous cultural events. Keep up to date with the program.
11. Visit the Quake City Museum
As mentioned above, traces of the earthquakes can be seen everywhere in Christchurch, a city that is still being rebuilt. A visit to the Quake City Museum is a must if you want to understand more about the seismic events that shook Christchurch over ten years ago. The interactive exhibits are suitable for all ages. You can learn more about the natural phenomena that trigger earthquakes, and hear the stories of those who lived through the disasters and those who came to help.
12. Visit the International Antarctic Center
For travelers who don't know, Christchurch and New Zealand are among the closest territories to Antarctica. A visit to the International Antarctic Centre will enable you to learn more about the climatic conditions of this territory at the end of the world, its wildlife, its special features and the dangers of global warming. The interactive, immersive space lets you relive an Antarctic expedition, enter a snowy room and even see penguins. The visit is suitable for adults and children alike.
To book : go here to book your tickets for the Christchurch International Antarctic Centre.
13. What to do in Christchurch Gondola ride to the top
The Christchurch Gondola, about a 15-minute drive from the city, is a glass-enclosed gondola that allows visitors to soar to breathtaking heights and views of Christchurch, Lyttelton Harbour, the Pacific Ocean and beyond. Once at the top, the more courageous can take to the hiking trails for a breath of fresh air. There's even a small café for refreshments and a souvenir store.
What to book : Discover Christchurch and its surroundings from a different angle by booking this guided tour of the city by retro tramway, which also includes a round-trip ticket for the gondola ride up.
14. A retro tramway tour
These are elements that leave no one indifferent when strolling through Christchurch. Authentic streetcars from another era are an effortless way to explore the city. They pass by Christchurch's iconic sites, and the best part is that their drivers are veritable wellsprings of knowledge about the city. So don't hesitate for a moment to ask them questions about history or architecture, as they're always happy to answer curious travelers' questions.
15. Getting to Orana Wildlife Park
On a family trip to Christchurch, all members of the family can travel twenty kilometers from the city to reachOrana Wildlife Park, a wildlife park that is home to many species, including the essential kiwi, as well as other animals found in Oceania, such as cockatoos and wallabies. Other species are emblematic of America, Africa and Asia, such as the tiger, gorilla and buffalo. Guided tours of the park are available, and feeding sessions are scheduled throughout the week.
To book: take advantage of our partner's rates and book here yourOrana Wildlife Park tickets!
Where to stay in Christchurch?
Discover our selection of the best accommodations for your stay in Christchurch.
- The Grange B&B, an ideal location
This Bed & Breakfast-Motel, bookable right here, is conveniently located in the city center. The rooms are housed in a magnificent UNESCO-listed 19th-century Victorian manor house. The rooms are magnificent, and there are also studios with kitchenettes. The Grange B&B is within easy reach of many of Christchurch's iconic landmarks, including the Canterbury Museum and Hagley Park.
- Orari, historic elegance
Another beautiful Victorian house bookable herethe rooms are of the highest level of comfort. The owner's refined taste in art and fine furnishings is immediately apparent. You immediately feel at home, and the breakfast is very good. Orari is less than a kilometer's walk from Riverside Market.
- Dyers House, for peace and quiet
Quiet travelers will love this hotel in a residential area of Christchurch, which you can book here. It features 3 rooms in an attractive Edwardian house. The atmosphere is resolutely family-oriented. Dyers House also has a library, lounge areas, terrace and garden.
Where to eat in Christchurch
Christchurch has plenty to tempt the taste buds. Here is a selection of 3 excellent restaurants in the city.
- Fiddlesticks, for its innovative recipes
The chef works with fresh, local ingredients and offers inventive recipes. Fiddlesticks cooks meat, fish and vegetables equally well, and doesn't hesitate to add a touch of international cuisine to its dishes. Brunch is also available at weekends. The wine, spirits and softs list is also very comprehensive. All in a trendy atmosphere.
- Lotus Heart, for vegetarians
This restaurant is a landmark for vegetarians and vegans, with gourmet bowls, curries, pizzas and other inventive burgers. Fresh fruit juices and organic teas are also available. Lotus Heart appeals to all those who like to eat healthy and are looking for alternatives to animal ingredients. Not uncommon in one of the world's most eco-friendly destinations.
- Salt Bar & Cafe, the fusion of Japan and Europe
Salt Bar & Cafe offers an original concept , fusing Japanese recipes with emblematic European dishes. It also features more common dishes such as pizzas and pasta plates. The Salt Bar & Cafe offers a choice of both classic and innovative dishes.
Below you'll also find some of the hottest things to do in Christchurch:
What to do around Christchurch?
A number of exciting expeditions await travelers in the Christchurch area. Start with Akaroa, a former French colony with alleyways, old buildings, craft stores and a pretty waterfront. Or visit Hanmer Springs, set in the middle of a volcanic basin. The area is famous for its hot springs and outdoor activities such as rafting and hiking. 65 km from Christchurch, the Waipara wine valley is a gastronomic must-see. And don't forget to cross the Canterbury plains to reach the Southern Alps and Mount Cook. A world of mountain beauty and one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand.
Have you fallen in love with New Zealand? You might like our top countries to travel alone in and South Pacific destinations to discover in 2025!
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