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Tram near the Memorial Bridge in Christchurch’s City Center

Destinations > Oceania > New Zealand > Christchurch and Akaroa

Christchurch itself offers a wide variety of attractions to visitors. Christchurch Central City is the city's geographical center between four avenues - Bealey Avenue, Fitzgerald Avenue, Moorhouse Avenue, and Deans Avenue. While earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 were devastating to the area, destroying many businesses, residential areas, and historical buildings, a lot of progress has been made in rebuilding and making things safe again.

Akaroa, a popular resort town on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is named for the harbor it’s located by, “Long Harbor” in a Māori dialect. Located on the Banks Peninsula the area has a long history as a Māori settlement, and the first European settlers established a whaling village on the spot. Coming under control of the British in 1840, the area also has the history and influence of French and German settlers that is unique in New Zealand.

By far the most popular tour from Christchurch has to do with the Lord of the Rings filming location for Edoras, the main city in Rohan, located on Mount Sunday - and for good reason. In the middle of nowhere, through a long rocky road, across streams and sketchy bridges, you end up in the middle of the most beautiful valley that you’ve ever seen - and there is Edoras! Then take a short hike to the top to experience the most tranquil spot in New Zealand.

For a more profound travel experience on this road trip, we are recommending this Customs and Culture book about New Zealand, which provides insight into the country's national identity and values including those from native Māori cultural influences.

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International Antarctic Center in Christchurch

Where to Stay in Christchurch

Our favorite areas in Christchurch are near the Antigua Boat Sheds and the Riverside Market. You’ll find that most of the best activities, memorials, and restaurants are located in this area. It’s quiet casual and has the fun street cars passing through.

How we explored New Zealand on Less than $44 per day

Antigua Boat Sheds

One of the few historic buildings that sustained little damage in the earthquakes was the Antigua Boat Sheds. Built-in 1882 on the banks of the Avon River near the Antigua Street Bridge, the sheds originally accommodated 38 boats of varying sizes. Today, they offer single or double kayaks, paddle and rowboats, and Canadian canoes for hire. It’s quite famous for “Punting on the Avon,” a must do experience while in Christchurch!

There are also bikes for hire if you want to explore the nearby urban landscape. The on-site café offers a relaxing view of the river or a picnic basket to take on your boating adventure.

Grab your Tram and Punting Combo

Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial

Opening on the sixth anniversary of the devastating 2011 earthquake, the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial, Oi Manawa in Māori, honors those who lost their lives or were seriously injured in the disaster. The memorial has spaces on either side of the Avon River, linked by the Montreal Street Bridge. The names of the 185 victims are inscribed on a wall on the south bank, and there is a reflective space across the river.

Want to make the most of your time in Christchurch? Be sure to add this city sightseeing tour to your itinerary to visit three must-see attractions.

Intricate fountain at the entrance to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Christchurch Botanic Gardens Tour

Located in the central city, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens was founded in 1863 next to the Avon River. Covering an impressive 21 hectares, the attraction has more than ten gardens, several conservatories, a paddling pool and playground, and a climatological station. The gardens are host to a variety of events and learning experiences. Admission is free, and the gardens open daily at 7 am. The visitors center opens at 8:30 am and has permanent displays, a gift shop, and a café.

You might want to check out the Christchurch Botanic Gardens Tour with Optional Hop-On Hop-Off Tram, Gondola, and Avon River Punting if you want to explore the garden with greater depth.

Antarctic Centre Christchurch

A visit to Christchurch is not complete without a stop at the International Antarctic Centre. The Centre houses support and administration for the New Zealand, United States, and Italian Antarctic programs, but most people visit the Antarctic Attraction in the visitors center.

The Antarctic Centre features a collection of educational exhibits and experiences, a gift shop, a café, and a bar. Visit penguins, ride in a Hagglund Antarctic vehicle, and check out the Storm Dome to experience Antarctic weather.

Don’t forget to get your admission ticket to the international Antarctic Center.

International Antarctic Center Tickets

Riverside Market

Open seven days a week, the Riverside Market in Christchurch grew out of the revitalization projects following the devastating 2011 earthquake. Now the daily farmers market supports local growers and businesses, and offers local produce, seafood, meats, as well as prepared foods like delicious baked goods, chocolates, honey, vinegars and oils, and a variety of restaurants. It’s a necessary on a visit to the city.

This amazing market is also one of the stops on the Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo, which we definitely recommend.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Another Christchurch must-see is the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. The animals are divided into three sections, each showcasing a variety of animals. The Farmyard section is home to heritage and rare breeds of farm animals. The Exotics section is more wide-ranging and showcases species from all over the world, while the New Zealand Natives section features creatures native to the islands.

In addition to the fun exhibits and educational programs, your visit supports the important conservation work that the Reserve is doing to save and maintain native and rare species populations.

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Tickets

Hagley Park North

Created in 1855, Hagley Park North is the largest green space in Christchurch and once again demonstrates the lovely way in which New Zealanders have incorporated the natural world into their urban spaces. With its network of well-maintained paths, Hagley Park is a great place to take a tranquil break from the city bustle. The North loop is a scenic route that follows the Avon River that bounds much of the park. The path takes you through the Botanic Gardens, another gorgeous feature of the park, and then loops back to the Northern carpark.

View from the Scarborough Reserve overlooking Lyttelton Harbour, near Christchurch

Scarborough New Zealand

The Scarborough suburb of Christchurch was named after the English resort town and is also an excellent spot for road trippers. While the earthquakes made much of the area unstable and ineligible for rebuilding, the beach is a popular place to surf. The north end is where the conditions are more favorable for surfing, and though it's not as popular for swimming as some other Christchurch beaches, the southern end is safer if you want to dip your toes in.

You’ll need to grab a local guide to hike to Godley Head and Lyttelton from here, but the views are worth it! Not far away you can grab a bird’s eye view of the city with the Christchurch Gondola ride. Discover the beautiful cityscape set against the backdrop of the Southern Alps, the Canterbury Plains, and the Banks Peninsula.

The Peninsula War Memorial on Rue Lavaud in Akaroa

Rue Lavaud & Beach Road

Heading into Akaroa to the east of Christchurch, you will find that many of the tour and dining options are located on just two of the main streets, Rue Lavaud & Beach Road. Famous for its Carpenter Gothic style and beautifully kept gardens, the nearby French Bay House is one of the most photographed houses in the charming historic village. The gentle boardwalk to Children’s Bay has beautiful views of the unique mudflat.

Along these waterfront thoroughfares, you can rent a bike or paddleboard, do some shopping, or find a tour guide to show nearby wildlife or landscape wonders. The most popular excursion in the area is the Wild Penguins Tour.

Book your Wild Penguins Tour

Akaroa Adventure Center

The Akaroa Adventure Centre, located on Beach Road, lives up to its name. Offering wildlife kayaking, paddle boarding, pedal boats, biking, and mini golf, there is fun for the whole family to be had here. The centre provides access to the beautiful harbor and marine reserve, with options for everyone from beginners to experienced adventurers.

Try the 3-hour sea-kayaking safari for a real treat!

Book your 3-hour Sea Kayaking Safari

Misty Peaks Track

If land-based adventure is more your thing, then you will want to check out Misty Peaks Track. The walk can be challenging, with steep climbs and sharing the road with motorists, but the views of Akaroa, the harbor, and the surrounding landscape are worth meeting that challenge. The loop takes about 4.5 hours, so make sure you bring lots of water and maybe a pastry from one of the local cafes to snack on.

Alternatively, jump aboard a 4-wheel-drive ATV to traverse through the Misty Peaks Track on your way to the Pohatu Marine Reserve, where you’ll take a guided sea-kayaking experience to see penguins, seals, dolphins, and sea birds!

Pohatu Marine Reserve via the Misty Peaks Track

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An exhibit at the International Antarctic Center in Christchurch, New Zealand

Must See Places in Christchurch and Akaroa

Christchurch and Akaroa have a lot more to offer than we originally expected. You may want to schedule in a little more time here if you can. From the Edoras day trip to Mount Sunday, the International Antarctic Center, Kayaking or Punting on the Avon and the Willowbrook Wildlife Reserve, Christchurch has much to offer. The adventure is extended with ATV’s, hikes, and kayaks in Akaroa. You could easily spend 4-5 days enjoying the different highlights of this area!

For a single day in Christchurch:

Start out your morning by going punting on the Avon River and seeing the Botanical Gardens
Then, without a doubt, visit the International Antarctic Center - it really opened our eyes!

In Akaroa, definitely do the ATV and Kayaking experience out to Pohatu Marine Reserve!

We know that these recommendations will provide you with a truly remarkable experience!

Continue onward towards Queenstown or, if going in reverse, head up toward Wellington:

Enjoy and remember to let us know how your trip goes in the comments section below.

FAQ’s

How much does it cost to visit the International Antarctic Center and what are the opening hours?

The International Antarctic Center is a major tourist attraction in Christchurch that offers a variety of exhibits and experiences related to Antarctica. The admission fee for an adult is NZ$ 69, for a child (5-15 years old) is NZ$ 45, for a student or senior is NZ$ 49, and for a family (up to 2 adults and 3 children) is NZ$ 189³⁴. The center is open daily from 9 am to 4:30 pm³.

What are some of the best places to eat and drink in Akaroa and Christchurch?

Akaroa and Christchurch have a diverse range of dining options, from cafes and pubs to fine dining and ethnic cuisines. Some of the best places to eat and drink in Akaroa are:

- Mandala Restaurant: A family-owned restaurant that serves Indian, Asian, and Pacific fusion dishes, with vegan and gluten-free options. The restaurant also has a beautiful garden and an art gallery¹⁴.

- Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar: A popular waterfront restaurant that offers a variety of seafood, international, and European dishes, as well as local wines and beers. The restaurant also has a sheltered courtyard and a children's play area¹³.

- Aihe: A restaurant located at the water's edge, with stunning views of French Bay. The restaurant serves modern European cuisine, with a focus on seafood and local produce¹⁵.

Some of the best places to eat and drink in Christchurch are:

- Little River Café: A cozy cafe that serves homemade meals made with local ingredients, as well as coffee, tea, and cakes. The cafe also functions as a store, where you can buy local wine, beer, gifts, and art¹⁶.

- The Little Bistro: A French restaurant that offers contemporary and fusion dishes, using seasonal and organic ingredients. The restaurant also has a wine list that features local and international wines¹⁶.

- The Common: A brew pub that serves craft beers, cocktails, and coffee, as well as cafe-style food. The pub also has a contemporary and cozy atmosphere, with live music and events¹⁶.

How long does it take to drive from Christchurch to Akaroa and what are some of the scenic stops along the way?

The drive from Christchurch to Akaroa takes about 1.5 hours, depending on the route and traffic. There are two main routes to choose from: the short route, which follows State Highway 75, and the scenic route, which goes via Governors Bay⁸. Both routes offer stunning views of the Banks Peninsula and the harbour, as well as some interesting places to stop along the way. Some of the scenic stops are:

- Halswell Quarry: A historic site that has been transformed into a park, with walking and biking tracks, gardens, and picnic areas⁶.

- Lake Forsyth: A large lake that is home to various bird species, such as black swans, ducks, and gulls. The lake also has a scenic lookout point and a camping ground⁶.

- Hilltop Lookout Point: A viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the peninsula and the harbour, as well as a restaurant and a car park⁶.

- Pigeon Bay: A small bay that has a beach, a jetty, a camping ground, and a walking track that leads to the historic Pigeon Bay Wharf⁶.

- Okains Bay: A picturesque bay that has a long sandy beach, a museum, a store, and a camping ground⁶.

- Ōnawe Track: A walking track that leads to the Ōnawe Peninsula, a former Māori pā (fortified village) that has historical and cultural significance, as well as spectacular views of the harbour⁶..

(1) Visitor Information | International Antarctic Centre. https://www.iceberg.co.nz/general-info/.

(2) General Admission | International Antarctic Centre. https://www.iceberg.co.nz/tickets/general-admission/.

(3) Mandala Restaurant. https://mandalaeats.co.nz/.

(4) Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar. http://www.bullyhayes.co.nz/.

(5) Aihe. http://aiherestaurant.co.nz/.

(6) THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Akaroa (Updated February 2024) - Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/Restaurants-g285727-Akaroa_Canterbury_Region_South_Island.html.

(7) Christchurch To Akaroa Drive. https://www.myguidechristchurch.com/travel-articles/christchurch-to-akaroa-drive.

(8) Christchurch to Akaroa: 12 Must-See Stops Along the Way. https://nztraveltips.com/christchurch-to-akaroa/.

(10) International Antarctic Centre. https://www.iceberg.co.nz/.

(11) International Antarctic Centre, Christchurch | Ticket Price | Timings .... https://www.triphobo.com/places/christchurch-new-zealand/international-antarctic-centre.

(12) The Scenic Drive from Christchurch to Akaroa. https://seethesouthisland.com/scenic-drive-from-christchurch-to-akaroa-new-zealand/.

(13) Road Trip Highlights from Christchurch to Akaroa | Mode Rentals. https://www.moderentals.co.nz/blogs/road-trip-highlights-christchurch-akaroa.

(14) Christchurch to Akaroa - Best Routes & Travel Advice | kimkim. https://www.kimkim.com/ab/christchurch-to-akaroa.

(16) HarBar Beach Bar. http://harbarbeachbar.co.nz/.

(17) THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Akaroa - Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurants-g285727-Akaroa_Canterbury_Region_South_Island.html.

(18) THE 10 BEST Restaurants in Akaroa (Updated February 2024) - Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Restaurants-g285727-Akaroa_Canterbury_Region_South_Island.html.

(19) undefined. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g657271-d19071298-Reviews-Mandala_Restaurant-Canterbury_Region_South_Island.html.

(20) undefined. https://www.facebook.com/mandalarestaurantakaroa/.

(21) undefined. https://www.happycow.net/reviews/mandala-akaroa-265692.

(22) undefined. https://www.sluurpy.nz/akaroa/restaurant/8288763/mandala-restaurant.

(23) undefined. https://lacarte.menu/restaurants/akaroa/mandala-26.

If you're lucky, you might spot a wizard during your visit to Christchurch!

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