Christchurch is a must-stop destination on a trip to New Zealand. Being the largest city in the South Island, it’s home to nearly 4 lakh people – and it’s remarkably vibrant and varied. It is one of the world’s most unique destinations combining modern culture with cultural heritage. Dubbed the ‘Garden City’, Christchurch is filled with cutting-edge architecture, vibrant street art, established green spaces alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River also intersects the city, bringing a natural touch to its urban regeneration.
The city boasts abundant greenery, making it another wonderful NZ destination for nature enthusiasts and those who love the great outdoors. Christchurch is also the basecamp for exploring the South Island along with the stunning Southern Alps and famous Canterbury Plains. While many people choose to stay over and extend their visit, the city is so small that you can see its highlights in a single day. You can even book a rental car to cover most of the city’s attractions. Following are some of the things you shouldn’t miss out on when visiting Christchurch.
Start Your Day Trip With a Breakfast in the City
Christchurch has seen a massive revolution in the cafe scene, with a huge variety of establishments serving up quality food and coffee around the city. If you are starting your course downtown, you can try some of the local hot-spots including the legendary C1 Espresso, a well-established veteran serving up some of the best brunches in town. You can also check out the buzzing Black Betty café, which has been meticulously giving its Madras Street patrons their amazing coffee since 2011.
Visit Cathedral Square
Since its establishment, Cathedral Square has always been considered as the physical and metaphorical heart of Christchurch. The 80 feet tall cathedral square is an astonishing structure and is a cornerstone of cultural life in Christchurch. While this cathedral was one of the hardest-hit areas from the destruction of the 2011 earthquake, the square has gradually been re-establishing its position as the city’s focal point for artistic, cultural, musical, and community-based events. To summarize, a walk around Cathedral Square, which reopened to the public in 2013, will give you a testament to the damage caused by the earthquakes, along with a whole new perspective of the city landscape.
Explore Canterbury Museum
Canterbury Museum is located in the central city of New Zealand and is known for its eclectic permanent exhibits. Since opening in 1870, the beautiful stone building of Canterbury Museum has grown to become one of the most popular attractions in the city and is worth a visit during your trip to Christchurch. It’s fascinating and Entry to the museum is also free, with absorbing galleries dedicated to Māori culture, natural and human history, Antarctic explorers, and the early years of the city itself.
Relax at Hagley Park
Your trip to Christchurch is incomplete without visiting Hagley Park. Hagley Park, with its stunning scenery, is located Within a couple of blocks of Cathedral Square. As the third-largest city-based park in the world with an extensive area of 165 hectares, there are walking tracks and recreational facilities aplenty, so there is no chance of getting bored.
The park is renowned for being the biggest urban space in Christchurch and hosts a regular line-up of events. At the heart of Hagley Park, you will also discover the beautiful Botanic Gardens, a must-do Christchurch activity. Spend an hour roaming the lush greenhouses and gardens showcasing native New Zealand environments. The Gardens’ Rose Garden feels like something pulled from a grand old English country house.
Go Shopping and Have Lunch at New Regent Street
Opened in 1932, New Regent Street is the first pedestrian mall in New Zealand. When initially, New Regent Street was opened it was called the most beautiful Street in New Zealand. Its colorful Spanish Mission-style buildings are uniformly painted and have always made the New Regent Street a standout local attraction.
Along with its stunning and distinctive features, the Street is home to a wide selection of boutiques, cafés, bars, and eateries. Check out the different stores, do some shopping, or grab lunch at the Caffeine Laboratory or the stylish, French-inspired Coffee Lovers café.
End Your Day with a Dinner on the Historic Tramway
The Christchurch Tramway Restaurant has taken scenic dining to a whole new level. The distinctive restaurant is the perfect way to end your Christchurch day trip itinerary. A lush, air-conditioned colonial-style tram will gently lead you on a sightseeing journey on the city’s streets as you treat yourself to a delicious evening meal and wines.
Menus in this restaurant are seasonal, with most of the finest New Zealand ingredients available. Bookings are a must as this is quite a popular attraction loved by locals as much as visitors. And the good news is that the restaurant operates Dinner tours almost all year round. So, give it a try.