In the heart of the CBD, overlooking the Avon River take a visit to Riverside Market, a seven-day indoor farmers' market selling local produce, meat, seafood, baked goods, coffee and more. Alongside the market is Riverside Lanes, a destination boutique shopping experience with an abundance of dining options!

Wine & Dine

From relaxed cafés to cosy cocktail bars and fine dining - Christchurch is a haven for foodie lovers! Local favourites include: C1 espresso | OGB | Little Poms | Hello Sunday | Little High | 5th Street | Inati | King of Snake | Amazonita

Visit Canterbury Museum and explore New Zealand's rich cultural and natural heritage. Learn about the past, present and future of Canterbury. There's always lots to see and do at the Museum - you can check out current exhibitions here.

From the spring drifts of daffodils, spectacular summer roses, stunning autumn leaf displays and cosy conservatories to explore, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens are located in Hagley Park - a short stroll from the city centre. Admire the beautiful Botanic Gardens by punting along the Avon River which flows through the tranquil gardens.

Margaret Mahy Family Playground is an all-ages, all-abilities playground. Located in Christchurch CBD the playground features a water play area, picnic areas and is home to a range of onsite coffee and food vendors. A short stroll from Margaret Mahy you will find New Regent Street - a heritage streetscape with beautiful Spanish Mission architecture. There you will find Rollickin Gelato - full of delicious gelato scoops, sweet bakes, desserts, and coffee.

From professional golf courses to golf simulators - you'll find a golf course around every corner in Christchurch. With its glistening lakes and magnificent 18-hole course, walk in the footsteps of Jimmy Walker and Lydia Ko at Clearwater Golf Club. Or play a round of golf at Canterbury's oldest golf course - Hagley Golf Club. You can also experience the best international golf courses from around the world without leaving Christchurch at X Golf Avonhead - a golf simulator brand that prides itself on accuracy, experience and realism!

A two-hour drive from Christchurch brings you to Arthurs Pass National Park, a natural wilderness of beech forests and rivers in the heart of the South Alpes/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana. You can enjoy a range of short walks that start from the village nearby; including The Devil's Punchbowl Falls, Bridal Veil Track, Historic Village Walk, Temple Basin and the Dobson Nature Walk. Beginning in Christchurch you can also take the TranzAlpine where you'll travel through the patchwork Canterbury Plains up into the striking landscape of Arthur's Pass National Park. Book your journey here.

Breathe in the ocean air and explore Akaroa and the Bays just 90 minutes from Christchurch. Uncover Akaroa - a historical French settlement located in the heart of an ancient volcano filled with an oasis of turquoise waters. Admire the town’s history and architecture as you explore the township’s vibrant gardens, boutique shops and restaurants. For an unforgettable experience visit Pohatu Marine Reserve - home to the largest Little Penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. You can also head out with Black Cat Cruises for your chance to get up close and personal with Hector's dolphins.