Things to do in  Christchurch

Christchurch is famous for its English-inspired architecture and gardens, as well as for the Christ Church Cathedral in the center of town and its heritage tramway. It’s also famous as a gateway to the Southern Alps mountains inland, and to the Banks Peninsula east of the city.

In Christchurch city, ride the heritage tram around the central areas and spend time in Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Punt on the Avon River if the weather’s fine, and shop and dine at colorful New Regent Street. Day trip to the Banks Peninsula for wildlife spotting.

Christchurch was founded as a European settlement in 1848. Maori settled in what is now Christchurch between 1500–1700 AD.

Christchurch is located on the South Island of New Zealand, in the Canterbury region. It’s roughly halfway down the east coast of the island and northwest of the Banks Peninsula. Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island.

There's plenty for families to do in Christchurch. Ride the restored vintage tram through the central city, punt on the Avon River, and visit the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Learn more about New Zealand’s southern neighbor at the International Antarctic Centre and enjoy views from the gondola.

Many travelers find that two to three days in Christchurch is ideal and enough time to experience the central city areas as well as some nearby attractions. Up to five days allows time for half-day or full-day trips to Lyttelton, Sumner, the Banks Peninsula, and Akaroa.