2024 Christchurch Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

NZ is a great place to visit. Different airlines fly there, but sadly Qantas who used to be a good airline, are now a budget airline. Choice magazine named Qantas the "Spirt of Disappointment" in Nov 2022. From my experience with Qantas over the last few years, Choice magazine has provided a fair assessment. Fortunately, NZ still remains a great place to visit. I especially like their winter, where snow is great in the South Island. Time to start using other airlines than Qantas until Qantas can live upto the "Spirt of Australia" logo, which they have failed to do over several years. Still, thank you New Zealand for being a great place to visit for business and also for pleasure.

very nice vegetarian food

Address - welcome Vegetarian Cafe in Christchurch, along Riccarton Ambiance/Facilities - a little old school ambience. Highlights - yummy Asian vegetarian food and friendly Asian owner, speaks English, Chinese and Hokkien. Avg. Price per Person - NZD10-15 Rating - very nice vegetarian food sold in this small little restaurant. Opening Hours - 12pm - 7pm for vegetarian who doesn’t consume alliums, this is a must go in Christchurch other than Waterdrop Teahouse at Fo Guang Shan. the restaurant look quite outdated but the food, we were quite taken back by the taste of the food when we first tried. THEY ARE GOOD! and quite value for money as some of the food items actually comes in different portion. do take note that large portion can serve 2-3 people. it won’t cost your pocket too much if you are sharing a large portion. #fallingforfall but it’s spring and chilly in NZ! lol! #tripblazers

Ballooning Canterbury

first hot air balloon experience. super friendly and nice pilot who flew us up the hot air balloon. magnificent view of Christchurch and the mountains around. but do be prepared to get yourself involved in some workout and get yourself dirty as you might be asked to help to keep the balloon after the ride as the grasses and soil are still wet due to the dews in the morning. early morning drive, around 5am, to the location is required also as to catch the sunrise. so be prepared to drive in the dark if you are staying at Christchurch. but, it’s totally worth it when you get to see the view from up there. and #fallingforfall but it’s spring time in New Zealand. #hotairballoon #ballooningcanterbury #newzealand #southnewzealand

Cultural Christchurch

Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island, and is rich in history and culture. While it has suffered from numerous natural disasters and unfortunate incidents, the community’s resilience has allowed them to stand strong and thrive. Admire the architecture and vibrant art in this city! #bucketlistreboot

Snippets Of Attractions In Christchurch

New Zealand is a dream destination for many who loves the outdoors, mountain backdrops and instaworthy shots. There are 2 islands one in the North Island and one in the south island. Christchurch is a place located in the south and caters more for the adventure seekers who loves beautiful hikes, overlooking the mountain backdrops and also the many quiet soothing scenic walks. There are a few popular attraction in Christchurch are the gorgeous looking Mountcook and Lake Tekapo, The wanaka tree with the backdrop of the lake, the tasman glacier walk and many more. Before heading to Christchurch, it is recommended to plan your roadtrip to ensure you travel plans are efficient and you do not spend too much time on the road. #bucketlistreboot #newzealand #christchurch #naturescapes #naturalwonders #mustvisit #mountains #hikes #scenic #holidayvacation

Beauty At Every Corner In Christchurch

Thinking if a holiday with beautiful backdrops of mountains, unblock scenic lake views, the abdunace of fresh air and the many instaworthy photos to show off to your friends? Head to Christchurch, as this is should be a bucketlists for people who love the outdoor adventure and nature. Christchurch alone has so much to offer, it is a dream paradise for one who loves to do roadtrips and long drives with roads going into the mountains and passes or driving along the calm lakes or crystal like waters. If you would like to experience 2 different sceneries, one should go both during summer and winter and experience the adventure each season has to offer. I generally love winter as it brings out the excitement when it comes to hiking, with all your equipment, boots, hiking stick and gloves. Ahhh, so professional like! #bucketlistreboot #newzealand #christchurch #winterholiday #summervacation #outback #nature #nationalpark #naturalwonders #hiking #scenic

Yummy foods in Christchurch!!

Close friend took me to try her favourite bites on New Regent St today. My first Korean mozzarella hot dog at Chicken & Chips (delicious) and gelato that I’ll be dreaming about tonight at Rollickin. I recommend a scoop of Yogi Bear and a scoop of Banoffee!#koreanfood #gelato #christchurch #newzealand

South Island Beauty Of New Zealand

New Zealand has a North and south island. For adventure seekers who yearns for nature, beautiful mountain backdrops, waterfall or any outdoor related activities you have to head to Christchurch. Christchurch is a city in the south island where you have to head out of the city to explore these activities. The recommended way to do this is to do a road trip around New Zealand which roughly takes you about 12-14 days to explore most of the attractions. The few famous attractions are milford sound, whangarei falls, lake wanaka, authors pass, mount cook. There are also many hiking trails in these mentioned attractions above, do remember to plan out your route for your trip to maximise time and reduce costs. Hotels and resorts are also available near these attractions where you can look out in trip.com via the map for convenience and easy comparison too! #gooutside #newzeland #christchurch #naturelover #naturalwonders #hiking #mustvisit #nationalpark

The Christchurch Park

Christchurch Park is a historical area of rolling lawns, wooded areas, and delicately created arboreta close to the town centre in Ipswich, Suffolk. The park hosts various facilities such as a children's play area, tennis courts, table tennis, bowling greens and outdoor gym equipment. The distinguished Tudor house, Christchurch Mansion, is located at the parks southern entrance and holds a public museum and art gallery. The park belonged to various noble families as private land throughout its history but was purchased by the Ipswich Borough Council in 1894 and opened as the town's first public park in 1895 #loveflowers#infinitypool#themepark

The Christchurch Botanic Garden is undoubtedly the most comfortable and pleasant place in the city. Tens of thousands of plants have different colors in different seasons. It has 10 unique special parks, such as herb garden, rose garden, fern botanical garden, water garden, rock garden, heather garden and so on. The layout is casual and natural, the garden is rich in shade, the air is fresh, and there are few key people. It is a good place for rest and recuperation. The Avon River passes through the park and can participate in rafting when the weather is good. It feels like visiting Cambridge.

I have something to say about traveling in New Zealand!

| I finally had time to organize the photos after returning from New Zealand for more than a month! The whole journey was perfect, exceeding my husband and my expectations. My English is not very good. I wanted to drive by myself, but I felt it was difficult to drive. I didn't want to follow the group to punch in like a special soldier. My husband has cleanliness and has requirements for accommodation. Difficulties can't stop two hearts that want to see the world, haha, relatives living in New Zealand recommended a driver and brother to us, the brother helped us piece together another couple, four people throughout the Alpha, saving money and effort, perfect, no matter where you go in the future In which country, the road to find a driver is locked, and the whole journey is very comfortable! Total cost 💰46,000 (two people tickets ➕ hotel ➕ driver ➕ Alpha) Christchurch stayed at the Hilton Hotel, tasted the tomahawk steak at night, ordered a bottle of red wine, and hoped that the 8-day South Island trip would go smoothly! Tekapo, stayed for two nights, was lucky to see the Milky Way, the mountaintop coffee shop overlooking Tekapo Lake, can only be described as shocking! The sashimi in the salmon farm melts in the mouth, and there are several plates in a row! The grilled fish head is also delicious, it's really drooling while writing.... The Cook Mountain trekking saw the beautiful glacier lake, the brother took us to a few punch-in positions, no skills are all big movies haha! Queenstown 3 nights, want to play extreme but small courage, finally chose the boat on the lake, it is also very exciting and cool! The century-old steamboat is very distinctive, delicious buffet, watched the sheepdog driving the sheep flock that has been seen on the screen. Glenorchy, the small town of the Lord of the Rings, the scenery along the way can't be put down by the camera, it is worthy of the last pure land in the world! Queenstown city center mall, bought a lot of small gifts, bought the coveted alpaca quilt, the big northeast winter must be warm! Wanaka's lonely tree is very artistic, sitting by the lake for a long time, very decompression~ Seeing that I love desserts, the brother took us to a century-old bakery on the way back, the gospel of dessert lovers! It's so delicious!! The little penguins in Oamaru 🐧🐧🐧 are so cute, waiting for more than an hour to climb out of the sea when it gets dark, it is said to be the smallest blue penguin in the world, the largest is only 1kg, invincible cute, really want to hug one back Home haha! Except for the hotel in Christchurch, the others are all big houses arranged by the brother for us, high-end and comfortable. If you find it yourself, you really can't find these treasure houses... Follow the brother, resolutely not step on the pit, very powerful! The perfection of the trip far exceeded expectations. Before boarding the plane, my husband transferred an extra 1,000 red envelopes to the brother 🧧 and was ruthlessly returned. The brother said that everything should be done. I didn't say anything, full of emotion, absolutely full service! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 After returning to China, I felt that I bought less Manuka honey, and asked the brother to help mail six more bottles. This is good, and I don't have to worry about the special products in New Zealand, haha!

Early spring in the Southern Hemisphere.

In New Zealand, cherry blossoms usually bloom from mid-September to October. Here are some great places to see cherry blossoms in New Zealand: - Hagley Park, Christchurch: Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand, and Hagley Park is one of the largest parks in Christchurch and one of the most famous places to see cherry blossoms in New Zealand. Every spring, the cherry trees in the park are in full bloom, forming a sea of pink flowers, which is very beautiful. - Cornwall Park, Auckland: Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, and Cornwall Park is one of the most famous parks in Auckland and one of the most famous places to see cherry blossoms in New Zealand. Every spring, the cherry trees in the park are in full bloom, forming a sea of pink flowers, which is very beautiful. - Wellington Botanic Garden: Wellington is the capital of New Zealand, and Wellington Botanic Garden is one of the most famous parks in Wellington and one of the most famous places to see cherry blossoms in New Zealand. Every spring, the cherry trees in the botanical garden are in full bloom, forming a sea of pink flowers, which is very beautiful.

Christchurch, great city

To be honest, I will choose to join a tour group if I go to New Zealand again in the future

It's been two months since I came back from the trip, but my thoughts are still drifting in New Zealand... My mind is full of white snow-capped mountains, blue clear glaciers, and sparkling lakes. If I didn't have to work, I would really want to go there and never come back. However, I heard that New Zealand's autumn is also very beautiful, and I want to go again! Some small suggestions to avoid pitfalls, sisters: 1. Mobile data: I bought 2GB of data at that time, which was not enough. I suggest you buy more. If you stay for a long time, you can buy a local SIM card, which is more cost-effective. 2. Adapter: Domestic three-prong power strips can be used directly, but two-prong ones cannot. If you don't bring a power strip, it is recommended to buy an adapter. 3. Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Although New Zealand's summer is almost over, the autumn sun in New Zealand is also very strong. Sisters who want to go, remember to bring sunscreen! 4. NZD: Most places accept card payments (Visa and MasterCard). I personally feel that bringing 500 cash is enough. I stayed there for 12 days and almost used it up by the time I came back. NZD can be exchanged domestically, and there are also exchange points on Queen Street in Auckland with good exchange rates. Do not exchange at the airport, the exchange rate is very poor. ✅Our itinerary D1-D2: Connecting flight to Shanghai, direct flight to Auckland, sleep at the hotel for one night after getting off the plane to adjust the time difference. D3-D4: North Island tour of New Zealand (Auckland—Waitomo Glowworm Caves—Rotorua—Agrodome—Hobbiton) D5-D11: South Island tour of New Zealand (Christchurch—Mount Cook National Park—Tekapo—Dunedin—Wanaka—Queenstown for 3 days, 2 days of free activities)—Shanghai D12: Arrive in Shanghai The first few days of the entire itinerary were a bit tight, but fortunately, we got to relax in Queenstown later. At first, I was worried that having too many people would be noisy, but later I found that everyone was quite well-behaved, probably because there were many young people. The tour lasted 12 days and 10 nights, with a full group of 25 people. The average tour fee was 27,000 yuan per person, all-inclusive (round-trip airfare, hotel, meals, driver-guide, various paid activities, etc.). We stayed in four-star hotels, which were not as large as those in China but were clean and tidy with good soundproofing. We ate local specialty food or Chinese food with eight dishes and one soup, enough to fill us up. There were no hidden costs throughout the trip, and some activities were optional and self-funded, with no mandatory participation. If you have any questions, you can leave a message in the comments section, and I will actively answer any questions I can help with!

Hagley Park, Christchurch's Natural Treasure

Hagley Park is a green gem in Christchurch, boasting vast green spaces, tranquil lakes, and diverse plant life. Stepping into the park, you'll be captivated by its serenity and beauty. The lush lawns, dense woodlands, and colorful flowers create a charming picture🖼️. Here, you can fully enjoy the gifts of nature, relax, and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park also features several walking and biking trails🚶♂️🚴♀️, perfect for strolling, jogging, or cycling. Walking along the lakeside, admiring the scenic views, or having a picnic on the lawn are all delightful experiences. Hagley Park is also an ideal venue for various outdoor activities such as concerts, festivals, and more🎶🎉. Additionally, there are museums and art galleries around the park that you can visit to enrich your trip. Travel Tips: 1. Choose a sunny day to fully appreciate the park's beauty. 2. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the park. 3. Bring some food and drinks to enjoy a picnic in the park. 4. Pay attention to the signs in the park to locate different attractions. 5. Participate in park activities or festivals to experience local culture.

Hagley Park and Canterbury Museum—A Blend of Nature and Discovery in Christchurch 🌳🏛️

Hagley Park, located on the west side of Christchurch, is a sprawling green oasis where the Avon River gracefully flows through North Hagley Park. 🌊🌿 This expansive park features golf courses, botanical gardens, serene lakes, and well-equipped bike paths, offering a perfect escape into nature. 🚲🌺 The park’s beautiful winter flowers, unique ancient trees, intricate fountains, and well-maintained paths create a tranquil environment where you can enjoy leisurely walks and spot birds. 🦜🌼 The Canterbury Museum, renowned for its exceptional and unique collections, showcases a wide array of bird specimens from the Pacific and beyond, including the impressive sculptural Emperor Penguin. 🐧🦜 The museum also features a Discovery Center, which is a hit with kids, and the colorful "Fred and Myrtle's Abalone Shell Hut," which displays intricate shell crafts. 🏛️👶 For a delightful experience outside the city, visit the Shamara Alpaca Farm, which offers stunning 360-degree views of the Akaroa Harbour and the surrounding crater rim. 🌄🦙 The farm owner provides engaging, interactive insights into the fascinating world of alpacas and their wool, making it a memorable visit.

Christchurch—Day by Day, Chasing the Stars, Driving Under the Southern Cross! ✨

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens, nestled along the banks of the Avon River in New Zealand, are a lush haven with over 10,000 native and introduced plant species. 🌿🌷 The Rose Garden is the heart of the gardens, featuring more than 250 varieties of roses, making it a floral paradise. 🌹 The Botanical Gardens Visitor Center is a great place to relax with a coffee, and it includes a special children's playground and guided walking tours. ☕👶 Akaroa, a charming French-inspired town on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, exudes romance and charm. 🇫🇷❤️ Situated on the shores of Akaroa Harbour, this picturesque town is set on the Banks Peninsula, formed by the ancient impact of ocean waves on a volcanic crater. 🌊🏞️ The area is known for its fruit orchards, dairy farms, and serves as a delightful summer resort and fishing port. 🍇🦑

Gorgeous!

Christchurch's Hagley Park, an urban natural oasis.

Hagley Park in Christchurch🌳 is truly a paradise within the city. The park is shaded by lush trees, with expansive lawns and vibrant flowers🌸 that lift your spirits. I strolled along the winding paths🚶♂️, breathing in the fresh air and appreciating the beauty of nature. Hagley Park also features many unique attractions, such as beautiful lakes, exquisite gardens, and ancient trees🌲. Here, you can relax and enjoy peaceful moments. Additionally, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities🚴♂️. Whether it's walking, cycling, or picnicking, you can fully enjoy the pleasures of the outdoors.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens, an oasis in the city.

Strolling through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, one can feel the tranquility and beauty this urban oasis brings🌳. The gardens are lush with greenery and blooming flowers, with various plants competing in beauty🌸. Walking along the paths, breathing in the fresh air, and listening to the birds singing🦜, it feels like being in a paradise. There are many rare plants here, making one marvel at the wonders and beauty of nature🌿. I particularly love the rose garden in the botanic gardens, where colorful roses bloom and their fragrance fills the air🌹, making one feel enchanted. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens is not only a great place to admire plants but also a perfect spot for relaxation🌼. Here, you can picnic with family and friends, enjoying leisurely moments; or sit alone on the lawn, reading and thinking, relaxing both body and mind.

South New Brighton holiday Park in Christchurch New Zealand

Let’s discover Christchurch and nearby

This was our first trip to New Zealand and as only had the 5 days we wanted a good taster to get the most of what New Zealand had to offer. Our trip was amazing and although an issue with the rental car company, overall we had an amazing trip and can’t wait to come back and explore more. For this trip we added: Christchurch-Kaikōura-Blenheim-Hanmer springs. Kaikoura with its fresh seafood and pebble beaches. You have to experience the sound of these waves first hand. Then on to Blenheim and the Marlborough wine region. What else can I say. Best white wines in the planet 🤭 Then down to Hanmer springs to soak in the hot springs and some fresh mountain air. Finishing with a stop in Christchurch and the lovely city food and culture. This gave us a great mix of coastal scenery, wine valleys and hot spring mountain villages. If you have a plan to visit, then it’s definitely an easy decision and don’t put it off. Have so many photos and vlogs it’s impossible to share all. But trust me when I say, New Zealand has stunning beauty.

CHRISTCHURCH ART GALLERY

Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū is a premier cultural institution in Christchurch, New Zealand. Located in a striking contemporary building, the gallery hosts a diverse collection of visual art, including both historical and contemporary works. Its exhibitions feature a wide range of mediums, from painting and sculpture to digital art and photography! As this is located near the city centre, you definitely won’t miss this! #mustvisitmuseums

CATHEDRAL SQUARE CHRISTCHURCH

Cathedral Square in Christchurch is a central hub of the city's cultural and social life. Dominated by the iconic ChristChurch Cathedral, the square serves as a focal point for events and gatherings. The area features a mix of historic and modern architecture, with landmarks such as the restored Arts Centre and various public art installations. #grouptravel

SUMNER BEACH CANTERBURY

Sumner Beach, located in Christchurch, New Zealand, is a popular seaside destination known for its scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere. The beach boasts a long stretch of golden sand, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports. Its clear waters and gentle waves make it a favorite spot for families and water enthusiasts. The nearby village offers a variety of cafes, shops, and restaurants, providing visitors with dining and shopping options. Sumner Beach is also renowned for its stunning sunsets and views of the surrounding hills and coastline, so snap some pictures when you’re there! #beachlife

RAVENSCAR HOUSE MUSEUM

Ravenscar House Museum in Christchurch offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's history. Housed in a grand Victorian building, the museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, including vintage clothing, antique furniture, and historical documents. Its exhibits vividly illustrate Christchurch's development and the lives of its residents throughout the years. Come here on your next trip and don’t forget to add this on your list! #mustvisitmuseums

CANTERBURY MUSEUM CHRISTCHURCH

Canterbury Museum in Christchurch, New Zealand, is a premier cultural institution offering a comprehensive exploration of the region's natural and human history. Established in 1867, the museum features extensive collections that include Māori artifacts, Antarctic exploration exhibits, and a rich array of natural history specimens. As this is in the city area, don’t miss this out on your next museum trip! #mustvisitmuseums

CHRISTCHURCH THE ART CENTRE MUSEUM

The Christchurch Art Centre, situated in the heart of Christchurch, New Zealand, is a vibrant cultural hub housed in a heritage-listed building. Originally constructed in 1877, the center was designed by architect Benjamin Mountfort and is renowned for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture. The center's picturesque setting, coupled with its rich history, makes it a key destination for art enthusiasts and tourists. #mustvisitmuseums

WE TOOK THE FAMOUS CHRISTCHURCH TRAM

The Christchurch Tram is a historic and charming way to explore the city's vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes. Operating since the 19th century, this iconic tram offers a leisurely, scenic tour through central Christchurch, showcasing landmarks like the Canterbury Museum and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. The tram's vintage design and knowledgeable conductors provide a nostalgic journey while sharing insights into the city's history and development. Passengers can hop on and off at various stops, allowing for a flexible and immersive experience. As a popular attraction, the Christchurch Tram not only connects visitors to key sites but also offers a unique perspective on the city's blend of historic charm and modern revitalization. Hop on to this, adult cost $40NZD per ride so take note! #grouptravel

THE BEST OF CHRISTCHURCH

I VISITED NZ’S FAMOUS BRIDGE THAT LOOKS JUST LIKE THE ONE IN PARIS! The Bridge of Remembrance in Christchurch, New Zealand, is a significant war memorial that honors those who served in World War I and subsequent conflicts. Constructed in 1923, the elegant stone archway spans the Avon River at the entrance to the city's central business district. Designed by architect W.H. Gummer, the bridge features classical elements, including a triumphal arch and decorative carvings that symbolize peace and sacrifice. It has become an iconic landmark, serving as a focal point for ANZAC Day commemorations and other remembrance events. #grouptravel