Christchurch Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General & Logistics
Is Christchurch worth visiting? Yes, especially for its unique blend of heritage, modern architecture, and a thriving food scene.
How many days do I need? 2–3 days is ideal for the city itself; 5+ if using it as a base for day trips.
Is it still “broken” from the 2011 earthquake? No, but it is a “city in transition.” You’ll see modern builds next to vacant lots and restored heritage sites.
When is the best time to visit? Summer (December–February) for weather; Spring (September–November) for the blooms in the Botanic Gardens.
How do I get from the airport to the city? The Number 3 or 29 bus is cheap ($4), or take a shuttle/Uber (approx. $35–$45).
Do I need a car? For the CBD, no. For the Port Hills, Akaroa, or Arthur’s Pass, yes.
Is it safe for solo travelers? Very. Standard city precautions apply, especially around the Bus Interchange at night.
Is it walkable? The CBD is extremely flat and very walkable.
What is the “Red Zone”? Areas where housing was removed due to land damage; they are now beautiful, slightly eerie parklands.
Does it snow in the city? Rarely. You might get a light dusting once every few years, but the nearby mountains stay capped.
Where should I stay? Near Cashel Street or Victoria Square to be central to food and the tram.
Is public transport good? The “Metro” bus system is reliable and covers most of the city.
Is tipping expected? No, tipping is not standard in NZ.
What is the “Cardboard Cathedral”? A temporary (now iconic) cathedral built with cardboard tubes to replace the damaged one.
Can I drink the tap water? Yes, Christchurch water is some of the purest in the world, sourced from aquifers.
Things to Do (City Center)
What is the best free activity? The Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
Is the Tram worth the price? Yes, if you want a historic overview and a “hop-on-hop-off” way to see the CBD.
Where is the best street art? Around the SALT District and the “Broken Hearth” mural on Manchester St.
What is “Punting on the Avon”? A relaxing ride on a flat-bottomed boat propelled by a punter in traditional attire.
Is the Art Gallery free? Yes, and the building itself is an architectural marvel.
What is the “Bridge of Remembrance”? A war memorial arch that serves as a gateway to the Cashel St mall.
What can I do at Tūranga? It’s the central library; go to the top floor for great city views and free LEGO.
Is the Canterbury Museum open? It is currently closed for a multi-year major redevelopment, but a “pop-up” museum is often available nearby.
Where can I see the earthquake memorial? The Oi Manawa Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial is on the riverbank near the hospital.
What is New Regent Street? A beautiful pastel-colored Spanish Mission-style street filled with cafes and shops.
Where is the best shopping? The Crossing and Ballantynes department store.
What is the Riverside Market? A massive indoor food hall with local produce and international eateries.
Is the International Antarctic Centre worth it? Yes, especially for kids or if you want to experience a “storm room” and see penguins.
What is Quake City? A compact museum explaining the science and human stories of the 2010/2011 earthquakes.
Can I visit the old Cathedral? You can view the ruins from behind a fence as reconstruction is underway.
Nature & Outdoors
Where can I see the best views? Take the Christchurch Gondola or drive to the Sign of the Kiwi.
What are the Port Hills? The hills separating the city from Lyttelton Harbour, full of hiking and biking trails.
Where is the nearest beach? Sumner Beach is the most popular; New Brighton has the iconic pier.
Can I swim at the beaches? Yes, but the water is quite cold even in summer.
What is the Godley Head walk? A stunning coastal loop track with WWII ruins and ocean views.
Where can I see penguins? Pohatu Penguins in Akaroa (90 mins away) is your best bet.
Are there hot pools? Yes, He Puna Taimoana in New Brighton (saltwater pools with ocean views).
Where can I see native birds? Willowbank Wildlife Reserve or Orana Wildlife Park.
What is the Christchurch Adventure Park? A hub for mountain biking and the longest zipline in NZ.
Can I see dolphins? Yes, you can swim with rare Hector’s dolphins in Akaroa Harbour.
What is the Bridle Path? A steep historical walk used by early settlers to get from the port to the city.
Where is the best place for a picnic? Hagley Park, specifically near the duck ponds.
Is there a waterfall nearby? Devil’s Punchbowl in Arthur’s Pass (2 hours away).
What are the “Blue Lakes”? Lake Tekapo and Pukaki (about 3 hours drive) are famous for their glacial blue water.
Can I see the Southern Lights? It’s possible during high solar activity, but easier further south in Tekapo or Dunedin.
Food & Drink
What is a “must-try” food? A classic NZ meat pie or a “cheese roll” (Southland sushi).
Where is the best coffee? C1 Espresso (food delivered via pneumatic tubes) or Unknown Chapter.
Where should I go for dinner? 27 Steps (New Regent St) or King of Snake (Asian fusion).
What is “Little High”? A popular, vibrant food court with various stalls (dumplings, pizza, burgers).
Are there craft breweries? Plenty. Cassels, Three Boys, and Two Thumb are local favorites.
Where can I get good gelato? Rollickin’ Gelato (multiple locations).
What is the “SALT District”? A trendy area (Saint Asaph, Lichfield, Tuam) full of bars and cafes.
Best place for breakfast? Hello Sunday in Sydenham.
Where can I find a “speakeasy” bar? O.G.B. (Old Government Building) has a classic, hidden vibe.
Is dining out expensive? Mid-range mains are usually $25–$40 NZD.
What is the best market? The Christchurch Farmers’ Market at Riccarton House (Saturdays).
Can I get vegan food? Yes, Christchurch is very vegan-friendly (try Grater Goods).
Where is a good rooftop bar? Pink Lady Rooftop or Mr. Brightside.
Best fish and chips? Red Snapper in Sumner or any local “chippie” in Lyttelton.
Is there a good winery nearby? The Waipara Valley (45 mins north) is famous for Riesling and Pinot Noir.
Day Trips from Christchurch
Is Akaroa worth the drive? Absolutely; it’s a charming French-influenced harbor town.
How do I get to Arthur’s Pass? By car or the world-famous TranzAlpine train.
What is Castle Hill (Kura Tawhiti)? Massive limestone rock formations that look like a ruined castle (seen in Narnia).
Can I visit Hanmer Springs? Yes, it’s a 90-minute drive for hot springs and forest walks.
Is Kaikoura a day trip? It’s 2.5 hours each way; doable, but long. Best for whale watching.
What is the TranzAlpine? One of the world’s most scenic train journeys from Christchurch to Greymouth.
Where can I see LOTR filming locations? Sunday Mount (Edoras) is a popular day tour from the city.
Is Lyttelton worth visiting? Yes, for its Saturday market and “gritty-cool” artsy vibe.
Can I go skiing from Christchurch? Yes, Mt Hutt is the closest major field (approx. 90 mins).
What is Quail Island? A former leper colony in Lyttelton Harbour, now a nature reserve reachable by ferry.
Practical Advice & Tips
What is the “Christchurch Pass”? A combo ticket for the Tram, Gondola, and Punting.
How is the weather? Changeable. Always pack a “windbreaker” or light jacket.
Is there free Wi-Fi? Yes, in the CBD around the library and Cashel Mall.
When do shops close? Usually 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM, though Riverside and restaurants stay open late.
Are there any “tourist traps”? Some find the Gondola pricey for what it is, but the view is objectively good.
What is the “Kiwi” accent like? Listen for “choice” (great) or “sweet as” (no problem).
Do I need to carry cash? Hardly ever. EFTPOS and Credit Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted everywhere.
What is the Sun UV level? Extremely high. You will burn in 15 minutes without SPF, even when cloudy.
Are there snakes? No, NZ has no snakes or dangerous land animals.
What about sandflies? Not common in the city, but you’ll find them at the beaches and in the bush.
Where can I buy groceries? Countdown (Woolworths), New World, or Pak’nSave.
What is the emergency number? 111.
How do I pay for the bus? You can pay cash to the driver or buy a Metrocard for half-price fares.
Are there public toilets? Yes, very clean ones are available in the malls and Hagley Park.
Is there a luggage storage? The airport and some central hostels offer this.
What is “The Tannery”? A stunning boutique shopping mall in an old industrial tannery building.
Where can I see the stars? Head out to Birdlings Flat or the Port Hills to avoid city light pollution.
Can I walk to the airport? Not recommended, but there are footpaths if you are dedicated (approx. 2 hours).
What is “The Terrace”? A strip of bars and restaurants overlooking the Avon River.
Are there many hills? The city is flat, but the southern suburbs (Port Hills) are very steep.
Local Culture & Quirks
What is the “Wizard of New Zealand”? A famous local figure who used to hold court in Cathedral Square.
Why are there so many cones? The “Orange Cone” is the unofficial city flower due to constant roadworks/rebuilds.
Is there a casino? Yes, the Christchurch Casino on Victoria Street.
What is “Mona Vale”? A historic homestead with beautiful gardens and public river access.
Where can I watch rugby? OrangeTheory Stadium (Addington) to see the Crusaders.
What is the “Arts Centre”? A Gothic Revival complex of buildings that used to be the university.
Can I punting myself? No, you are usually chauffeured, but you can rent kayaks at the Antigua Boat Sheds.
Is Christchurch boring? Only if you don’t like gardens, food, or being near the mountains.
How do locals pronounce the name? “Christ-church,” but the Māori name is “Ōtautahi.”
What should I do on my last night? Have a drink at the pink “Pink Lady” rooftop bar and watch the sun set over the Southern Alps.