City: what to do while you’re here

Christchurch is one of the world’s most unique destinations, combining urban regeneration and innovation with heritage, culture and exhilarating activity.

There are so many things to see and do within the city, here are a few of our top picks:

Riverside Market

The Riverside Market is a fabulous addition to the CBD. Overlooking the Avon River in the heart of Christchurch, Riverside Market is a fresh take on inner city life with a 7-day-trading indoor farmers’ market linking into a boutique network of retail, restaurants, cooking schools, cafes and bars.

Click the link below to meet the merchants at Riverside Market

Punting on the Avon River

An iconic Christchurch activity not to be missed. Admire the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens or the changing face of the city centre as you are expertly guided gently along the Avon River. Punting on the Avon is an eco-friendly way to relax and enjoy Christchurch from a different perspective.

Click the link below to make your booking

Hop on board the Tram

Explore Christchurch’s evolving city centre on board beautifully restored heritage tramcars. Visit the best of the central city sights at your leisure, while the knowledgeable drivers keep you updated about the latest city changes (along with mentions of the past) in their informative live commentaries.

Click the link below to make your booking

Walking around Hagley Park

Walk alongside the peaceful Avon River. There are a number of tracks linking North & South Hagley Park with the Botanic Gardens at the heart. A full loop is roughly 7km and will take roughly 2 hours

Enjoy the rows of flowering blossom trees and spring flowers in the Woodland area. Take time to view the Peace Bell, Central Rose Garden and Conservatories before taking the Armagh Footbridge back to the carpark.

He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools

Located only 15 minutes from the CBD, He Puna Taimoana is where you can enjoy stunning ocean views while soaking in one of five luxurious hot pools. Relax and recover in the plunge pool, steam room and experience beachside views from the sauna. The name of the pools translates as “coastal pools” or “seaside pools”, and reflects the location of the pools and surrounding environment.

Click the link below to make your booking

Ziplining

Combine a real rush of adrenaline with great views of the city and its sights (on a good day you can see all the way from the ocean to the spectacular Southern Alps). The Christchurch Adventure Park’s zipline is dual lined which means you can race others through the heights and width of the Park. With four stages ranging in length from 400 to 1100 metres, this is going to be a way to experience the Port Hills like no other.

Click the link below to make your booking

Ride the Gondola

Take in the spectacular 360-degree views and see Christchurch from a different perspective: gaze at the snow-capped Southern Alps, sprawling Canterbury Plains and the sparkling waters of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

Once you reach the summit explore the many walking tracks and wide open spaces amidst fresh air, then head to the Summit Station and learn about the history of the area on the Christchurch Discovery ride.

Click the link below to make your booking

International Antarctic Centre

Experience the wonder and magic of Antarctica without leaving Christchurch at the award-winning International Antarctic Centre. It’s quite possibly the closest you’ll get to Antarctica without mounting your own expedition

Experience snow and ice, an Antarctic storm, take the polar plunge ice water challenge, learn about life in modern-day Antarctica and Scott Base, and hang out with Little Blue Penguins. Try the famously exciting Hagglund ride and an simulated 4D cruise Ice Voyage.

Click the link below to make your booking