Things to Do in Christchurch – New Zealand’s Oldest City Vibrantly Rebuilt

Vibrant and exciting, Christchurch New Zealand was devastated by two significant earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. A city on the rebuild, there are plenty of unique things to do in Christchurch.

New Zealand’s second-largest city and the largest on the South Island, Christchurch, also has the regal distinction of New Zealand’s oldest city, having been established on 31 July 1856.

To our surprise, we found more things to do in Christchurch today than there were before the quakes. Classic sites and activities remain, joined by new post-earthquake options that together suggest Christchurch is a city that will not be defeated.

Best of all, Christchurch is like a blank canvas, a dynamic garden city taking full advantage of the opportunity to reinvent itself.

Having seen the destruction in the news as it happened, I was apprehensive about our first post-quake visit. Now we know, my worries were unfounded, and we look forward to every visit.

Read on and discover what we believe are the best things to do in Christchurch.

Must-see things to do in Christchurch

Whether you are passing through, didn’t allocate enough time, or staying a while, there are a few places we consider must-sees in Christchurch. These are the International Antarctic Centre, Botanic Gardens, and Cathedral Square. The last two can be included in a city tour.

International Antarctic Centre

Christchurch is one of the world’s staging destinations for Antarctic scientific expeditions, so it’s fitting that the International Antarctic Centre is here. The centre is both educational and fun as it explores Antarctica’s history and the modern-day technology used for study. It’s a family-friendly venue that adults love too.

Highlights include a sub-zero Antarctic storm, a ride in the Hägglund (all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle), penguin viewing (feedings at 10.30 and 3.00 daily), and a 4D movie (fourth dimension is wind and occasional sea spray). There’s also a room dedicated to smaller children’s fun and learning.

Located near the Christchurch airport, it’s easy to visit on your way in or out of town, especially if you use the free shuttle bus. Reserve your tickets for the International Antarctic Centre here.

One of the top indoor activities in the city, it’s perfect for a rainy day or anytime.

Hagley Park, Botanic Gardens and Antigua boatsheds

Beautiful Hagley Park is more than just a place for a stroll. Set for recreation since the 1850s, it is home to the Botanic Gardens, the Avon River, and several lovely walks. This is the largest urban open space in Christchurch; it really is a must-see for visitors.

• Botanic Gardens: As I stroll through the 165 acres of native and exotic plants in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, my stress melts away. Free entry
• Antigua boatshed: Built in 1882, the Antigua boatsheds are New Zealand’s only surviving 19th-century purpose-built boat sheds, having always been used for commercial boat hire. They are the starting point for punting on the Avon or hire kayaks, canoes, rowboats, or paddleboats.
• Punting on the Avon: A Christchurch tradition and loads of fun, we listened to historic stories told by our Edwardian dressed punter as he guided us down a section of the Avon River. Reserve your often discounted tickets here.

Save even more with a Christchurch Pass that includes the historic tram, punting on the Avon River, and the Gondola. Reserve your Christchurch pass here.

Take a self-guided bus or free walking tour of the city

In a city in transition, one way to stay current is to have a guide. Our two favourite tours are either the tram or a free walking tour.

• Christchurch historic tram
  With 17 stops and commentary, the tram offers city highlights like Cathedral Square, Botanic Gardens, Arts Centre, New Regent Street and more. (We have not taken the tram as we prefer walking). Reserve a Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tram ticket here*
• Free walking tour
  This comprehensive 2-hour free walking tour runs on Monday – Saturday at 11.30 am. (Note: not on Sunday). A great way to learn some history, see many of the key sites and get a bit of exercise. Learn more about the free walking tour. Note: Although free, tipping is customary on this tour.

*Save more with a Christchurch Pass that includes the historic tram, punting on the Avon and the Gondola. Reserve your Christchurch pass here.

Outdoor things to do in Christchurch

• Christchurch Gondola
  A scenic 10-minute gondola ride took us to the top of Mt. Cavendish, where we were greeted with stunning views of the city and Lyttleton Harbour. At the top, there is a time tunnel ride, a shop, a cafe, and hiking trails. Reserve your gondola tickets here* (20-minute drive from downtown).
• Hiking
  Two of the more popular hikes include the Bridle Path Walk and the Mt. Cavendish crater rim trail on the Banks Peninsula. We did Crater Rim as we were already on this extinct volcano after we took the gondola. If you want more, check out the tourism board’s list of hikes and walks.
• New Brighton pier
  Head to New Brighton for a day at the beach, ocean swimming, sea views, and a walk out over the water along the pier. There is also a nearby war memorial, a modern library, and plenty of street art in the New Brighton area (a 15-minute drive from downtown). Free entry
• Margaret Mahy Family Playground
  Holding the distinction of the largest children’s playground in the southern hemisphere, this post-quake recovery project opened in 2015. Named for New Zealand children’s author Margaret Mahy, this park has it all, from slides, swings, and water features to climbing ropes and walls. Well thought out, there are also plenty of spots for parents to relax and watch. Free entry

Things to do in Christchurch – animal encounters

Whether you are looking for wildlife or a one-of-a-kind animal encounter, Christchurch has it all. Here are our recommendations:

• Orana Wildlife Park
  Orana Park is New Zealand’s only open-range zoo. Therefore, the animals live in open enclosures emulating their natural habitat. There are also wildlife encounters that let you get close up and personal. Don’t miss the lion encounter (extra fee), a one-of-a-kind opportunity. Reserve your often discounted Orana Park entry tickets here.
• Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
  Here you will find rare native species, including takahe, kiwi, kea, kaka, and tuatara, feed eels, and learn about New Zealand’s natural history. There is an optional Māori cultural performance and dinner option. Reserve your often discounted Willowbank entry tickets here.
• Swim with dolphins or take a wildlife cruise in Akaroa
  Akaroa is a charming French-influenced village. Although a 90-minute drive away, Akaroa is the port city used by cruise ships as their Christchurch destination. Popular activities involve either relaxing in a cafe or heading out on the water to see or swim with the world’s smallest dolphin breed. Check for Reserve your swim with dolphin adventure often with discounts here or for a check for discounts on a wildlife cruise here.
• Go whale watching in Kaikoura.
  Wildlife abounds, and visitors head to Kaikoura for whale watching, as it’s not uncommon to see sperm whales, dolphins, and sometimes albatross. Note that Kaikoura is a 2.5-hour drive north of Christchurch. Allow a full day. Reserve your whale watching adventure here.

Things to do in Christchurch – museums

• Canterbury Museum
  Explore the regional history and our natural world. Not-to-be-missed treasures include rare Maori artefacts; one of Sir Edmund Hillary’s Scott Base tractors; the gold-plated motorbike of Iver Mauger (three-times World Championship Speedway title), and the iconic paua shell home of Fred and Myrtle. Free entry
• Quake City
  Discover the region’s earthquake history with remarkable stories of everyday heroes. Find iconic and significant objects damaged by the quake, including the spire from the Christchurch Cathedral. It’s an emotional visit, but one that we recommend.
• Christchurch Art Gallery
  The aesthetically impressive architecture of the Christchurch Art Gallery drew me to this modern museum. The ever-changing exhibits include works by Henri Matisse, other international artists, and several Kiwi artists. Free entry
• Air Force Museum
  See 20 historic aircraft, interactive exhibits, a flight simulator (charges apply), personal stories, and New Zealand air force history. (10-minute drive from the city). Free entry

Things to see in Christchurch – art

• Arts Centre
  The Arts Centre is the largest collection of category one heritage buildings in New Zealand. Over two-thirds of this former university has been reopened to the public after extensive earthquake restorations. We enjoyed the Gothic Revival architecture and the stained glass windows. Free entry
• The Glass Pavilion
  The Glass Pavilion by Gregor Kregar is built to highlight repurposing and encourage creativity. It is made from handmade bricks, recycled wood, and repurposed neon. It also pays homage to the fortitude and resilience of the Christchurch communities. Free entry
• Brockworth Street Art Gallery
  Artists have taken to the streets to redesign this city one colourful wall at a time. Everywhere you turn, there is vivid, compelling, political, or fun street art. If you are looking for a more concentrated collection, head to the Brockworth Street Art Gallery, an open-air exhibit that runs alongside the railway tracks. It was a bit challenging to find, but worth the effort. Free entry.
  If you just want to walk the city and find art, be sure to download a free Christchurch street art map.

Cathedral Square and Christchurch after the earthquake

Cathedral Square, once the main town centre, is now an uncomfortable reminder of the earthquakes that shook this city. The cathedral that once towered over the city like a father protecting his family now stands half in rubble, the other half intact yet inaccessible. Surrounding it is an eclectic mix of stark reminders, new construction, colourful street art, and a city rebuilding and redefining itself.

• Christchurch Cathedral
  The loss of this iconic cathedral was devastating. In fact, it’s taken six years to decide its fate, and it is finally being rebuilt. Originally built between 1864 and 1904, it is the seat of the Bishop of Christchurch.
• Mahon’s Stone Cairn
  Added in 2010, this artwork by local artist Sam Mahon stands in protest to the loss of regional democracy in Canterbury. Many of the river rocks were brought and added by the protesters.
• The Chalice
  This 18-metre-tall iconic symbol of Christchurch still stands amidst nearby destruction. Installed in 2001, the Chalice celebrates the new millennium and the 150th anniversary of the founding of Christchurch and Canterbury.
• Transitional Cathedral
  Nicknamed the Cardboard Cathedral, it is a symbol of innovation, inspiration, and the good in all people. It took two years from concept to completion and is the only cathedral in the world made substantially of cardboard. It’s expected to last for 50 years, a transitional place of worship until the main cathedral is rebuilt.
• 185 Empty Chairs
  A powerful and temporary art installation. Each chair is unique, representing the 185 individual people who perished in the quake.

More things to see and do in and around Christchurch

• Bridge of Remembrance
  The Bridge of Remembrance crosses the Avon River. It is a dedication to New Zealanders who gave their lives in World War I. It now also serves as a memorial for those who participated in other wars (and conflicts), including World Wars II, Borneo, Korea, Malaya, and Vietnam.
• New Regent Street
  A colourful escape from the nearby earthquake damage, the Spanish mission style New Regent Street is home to shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Tramway Restaurant dinner tour
  We watched the Tramway Restaurant dinner tour pass by us, but we were too late to reserve a spot. Others said they enjoyed the 2.5-hour four-course dinner. Don’t miss out as we did. Reserve your table at the Tramway Restaurant here.
• Adrenalin Forest
  If treetops, zip lines, and obstacle courses appeal to you, test your nerves at the Adrenalin Forest. They offer over 100 challenges at six levels. Get tickets to the Adrenalin Forest in advance to guarantee admission.
• Jet boat and thermal pools at Hanmer Springs
  If you are looking for a day trip featuring a mix of adventure and relaxation, then don’t miss this all-day tour. First a jet boat ride through Waiau Gorge at Thrillseekers Canyon, then lunch in Hanmer Springs followed by a rejuvenating soak in the natural hot springs. If you need to leave the city behind and unwind, this is the destination. Reserve your Hanmer Springs day trip here.
• TranzApline Train
  Considered on the world’s most incredible train journeys by Lonely Planet, we loved and highly recommend taking the TranzApline train, either all the way from Christchurch to Greymouth or as a day trip from Christchurch that includes a tour at Castle Hill before bringing you back. Reserve your TranzAlpine Train, Arthur’s Pass & Castle Hill Day Trip from Christchurch here.

More fun and funky restaurants in Christchurch

Christchurch is a city filled with culinary excellence. We were spoilt for choice. We loved these four options:

• Casa Publica – South American cuisine, live music, and 100+ rum varieties. We enjoyed the rib stack.
• C-1 – An iconic Christchurch café currently housed in the old High Street Post Office. Aside from great coffee, what makes it unique is that some of the food is served through pneumatic sliders delivered at 100 km/hr.
• Little High Eatery – An upscale food court with eight local family-run restaurants in a funky shared environment.
• Hello Sunday Café – a charming café whose mission is to provide great food and coffee and ultimately bring people together. If you eat a super sweet breakfast, don’t miss their waffles with fruit topped with candy floss. I promise a culinary treat unlike any other.

On a budget? Don’t miss our list of the best free things to do in Christchurch.

Where to stay in Christchurch

While there are plenty of Christchurch accommodation options covering the full gambit of price and amenities, we prefer to stay in four-star accommodations that have earned their top ratings. In Christchurch, we have two favourites, the Heritage Hotel and the Crowne Plaza.

Heritage Hotel
We have fond memories of staying in Cathedral Square on my first visit to Christchurch, long before the earthquake. It is different now, but the Heritage Hotel still stands in all its glory and remains our top recommendation.

Situated in a historic building in Cathedral Square, the Heritage Hotel offered huge suites that include both a washing machine and a kitchen. If you need more relaxation, there’s a pool, gym, sauna, and spa tub on site. Reserve your stay at the Heritage Hotel here.

Crowne Plaza
As the Heritage was full on our last visit, we opted to stay at the Crowne Plaza. Centrally located, we had a great night’s sleep on a comfortable bed in a modern, spacious room. Living up to the quality we expect from Crowne Plaza, it was a lovely choice. Reserve your stay at the Crowne Plaza here.

Continue your adventure

As a port of entry for many, lots of journeys begin here. Here are a few we love:

• Head to popular Queenstown or up to Picton to cross the North Island with this itinerary: Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary
• If you went to Queenstown – continue the loop up the west coast following this itinerary: Queenstown to Nelson
• Or, expand the trip to Queenstown by first heading down the East Coast and then across the southern coast.

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What are your favourite things to do in Christchurch New Zealand?

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Disclaimer: We worked with ChristchurchNZ, the local tourism board. We were provided with many complimentary entrances, tours, sample items, or media rates to assist in the writing of this review. The opinions expressed here are strictly our own.