21 Best Things to Do in Christchurch

Christchurch, known as the “Garden City”, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modern innovation. Rebuilt after the 2010–2011 earthquakes, the city now offers a unique mix of heritage architecture, creative public spaces, and world-class attractions. Nestled on New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch is both a hub for urban experiences and a gateway to natural wonders in the surrounding Canterbury region.

Visitors are drawn to Christchurch for its stunning gardens, riverside walks, historic landmarks, and thriving arts scene. The city also serves as a base for day trips to nearby Akaroa, Kaikoura, and Arthur’s Pass. Adventure seekers will find biking trails, jet boating, and hot air ballooning, while families enjoy interactive museums, wildlife parks, and cultural experiences.

This guide highlights the 21 best things to do in Christchurch, providing insider tips, recommended times to visit, transportation advice, and ways to book tours conveniently through Baj. Whether you’re exploring the city’s iconic gardens, enjoying a scenic river cruise, or sampling local cuisine, this blog ensures you make the most of your time in Christchurch. Baj’s ride-bidding system offers flexible, reliable, and cost-effective transport, letting you move seamlessly between attractions and day trips.

Top 21 Experiences in Christchurch

1. Christchurch Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the city center, featuring themed gardens, rose beds, and rare plant collections. Walking tours provide insights into local flora and conservation efforts. Don’t miss the seasonal blooms in spring and summer.

2. Avon River Punting

Experience the city from the water with a punting tour along the Avon River. Guides offer storytelling about Christchurch’s history and landmarks. Perfect for couples, families, and photographers.

3. Christchurch Tramway

The heritage Christchurch Tram is an iconic way to explore the city. The tram passes major attractions like the Botanic Gardens, Cathedral Square, and museums, offering both guided commentary and hop-on-hop-off convenience.

4. Canterbury Museum

Located next to the Botanic Gardens, the Canterbury Museum provides cultural, historical, and natural exhibits. Highlights include Maori artifacts, Antarctic exploration displays, and interactive exhibitions for children.

5. International Antarctic Centre

A unique Christchurch attraction, the Antarctic Centre offers interactive exhibits, simulated snowstorms, and guided penguin encounters. Great for families and anyone interested in polar exploration.

6. Christchurch Art Gallery

The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū showcases contemporary and classic works by New Zealand and international artists. Free entry and rotating exhibitions make it a cultural must-see.

7. Hagley Park & Walking Trails

Hagley Park is the city’s largest green space, perfect for cycling, walking, picnicking, and photography. Seasonal events, like flower shows and marathons, make it a vibrant community hub.

8. Port Hills & Summit Walks

For panoramic city and harbour views, hike the Port Hills. Trails vary in difficulty and provide photo opportunities, wildlife spotting, and sunset viewpoints.

9. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Meet native New Zealand wildlife, including kiwis, tuataras, and eels. The reserve offers night tours for kiwi spotting and interactive experiences for children.

10. Riccarton Market & Local Shopping

Riccarton Sunday Market is perfect for fresh produce, artisan goods, and souvenirs. Explore nearby boutique shops for local fashion, crafts, and gifts.

11. Hot Air Balloon Rides

See Christchurch and the Canterbury plains from above with hot air ballooning. Sunrise flights offer stunning lighting and unmatched aerial perspectives. Baj can coordinate transportation to the launch sites.

12. Adventure Activities & Jet Boating

Christchurch is a gateway for adventure activities, including jet boating on the Waimakariri River, ziplining, and mountain biking. Tours are guided and suitable for all skill levels.

13. Street Art & Urban Exploration

The city is home to vibrant street art created post-earthquake. Guided walking tours showcase murals, graffiti, and urban regeneration projects.

14. Christchurch Casino & Entertainment

For nightlife and entertainment, visit Christchurch Casino, featuring dining, live shows, and gaming experiences.

15. Local Cafés & Culinary Experiences

Christchurch offers a thriving café culture, artisanal bakeries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Must-try foods include locally roasted coffee, fresh seafood, and craft chocolates.

16. Riccarton Bush & Native Forest Walks

Explore one of the city’s few remaining native forests, home to native birds and rare plants. Guided nature walks provide insights into conservation.

17. Orana Wildlife Park

New Zealand’s only open-range zoo, Orana Wildlife Park, is home to lions, giraffes, and endangered species. Interactive feeding experiences are available.

18. New Regent Street

Historic New Regent Street is famous for pastel-colored Spanish Mission-style buildings, cafés, and boutique shopping. Ideal for photography and leisurely strolls.

19. Day Trips to Banks Peninsula & Akaroa

Christchurch is a base for exploring Akaroa and Banks Peninsula, including dolphin tours, French-inspired towns, and scenic drives. Baj can organize transport and tours for a seamless day trip.

20. Local Festivals & Seasonal Events

Christchurch hosts multiple annual events, including the World Buskers Festival, Christchurch Arts Festival, and seasonal markets showcasing local food and culture.

21. Scenic Photography & Sunrise Spots

Photographers will love capturing cityscapes, rivers, gardens, and hills at sunrise. Port Hills, Avon River, and Botanic Gardens are top locations.

Food & Dining in Christchurch

Christchurch has an exciting culinary scene that blends international flavors with local ingredients. Popular cafés like Black Betty Café, C1 Espresso, and Unknown Chapter offer artisanal coffee and brunch experiences.

Restaurants such as Inati, Fiddlesticks, and Bloomsbury focus on seasonal produce, fine dining, and innovative menus. Seafood lovers will appreciate fresh fish from local waters, while dessert enthusiasts can indulge in handcrafted chocolates and pastries.

Baj ensures you can reach dining spots safely and comfortably, making multi-restaurant days or evening excursions stress-free.

Accommodation Options

Christchurch provides options for all budgets:

• Luxury: The George, Crowne Plaza Christchurch, boutique B&Bs
• Mid-range: Novotel Christchurch, Rydges Latimer, centrally located hotels
• Budget: Hostels, motels, and Airbnb apartments for solo travelers and families

Baj’s ride bidding system makes transfer between hotels, attractions, and day trips seamless, reducing time spent navigating the city.

Travel Tips & Transportation

• Getting There: Christchurch Airport connects to domestic and select international flights. Baj offers airport transfers and ride bidding options.
• Getting Around: Walking is convenient in the central city. For excursions or day trips, Baj provides efficient and cost-effective rides.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for gardens and outdoor activities; autumn for seasonal events and festivals.
• Packing Tips: Comfortable walking shoes, layers for variable weather, sunscreen, and a camera for scenic spots.
• Booking Tours: Baj simplifies tour bookings, including multi-attraction passes, adventure activities, and day trips to nearby towns.

Why Book with Baj

Baj ensures stress-free, reliable, and flexible travel in Christchurch:

• Best-price ride bidding for attractions and day trips
• Transport to multi-attraction tours and external excursions
• Expert drivers with local knowledge
• Comfortable vehicles for all group sizes

Booking through Baj lets you focus on enjoying the city without worrying about logistics, traffic, or parking.

FAQs

Q: How many days should I spend in Christchurch?
A: 2–4 days to cover city attractions and day trips.

Q: Can I visit Akaroa or Banks Peninsula from Christchurch?
A: Yes, Baj provides easy transport and guided tour options.

Q: Are the Botanic Gardens wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the paths are mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Q: What is the best season to visit?
A: Spring and summer for gardens, outdoor activities, and festivals.

Q: Are family-friendly activities available?
A: Yes, including museums, wildlife parks, adventure activities, and boat tours.

Q: Can I do adventure sports in Christchurch?
A: Yes, including jet boating, hot air ballooning, ziplining, and cycling.

Q: Are there local guided tours?
A: Many tours are led by expert guides familiar with local history, wildlife, and culture.

Q: What local cuisine should I try?
A: Fresh seafood, artisanal cheese, New Zealand lamb, and locally roasted coffee.

Q: Is Christchurch safe for solo travelers?
A: Yes, the city is considered safe, especially when using Baj for transportation.

Q: Can I combine city and day trips efficiently?
A: Baj makes it easy to combine city exploration with excursions to Akaroa, Banks Peninsula, and surrounding areas.

Conclusion & Call-to-Action

Christchurch blends urban culture, history, and natural beauty in a way few cities can. From lush gardens and historic streets to adventure activities, cultural experiences, and day trips, there’s something for everyone.

Using Baj for transport and tours ensures your trip is comfortable, cost-effective, and well-organized. Whether you’re exploring the city center, venturing into Banks Peninsula, or enjoying local dining and festivals, Baj makes every step of your journey seamless.

Start planning your Christchurch adventure today—book tours, rides, and experiences through Baj, and discover the Garden City with ease and style.