The Best Things to Do in and Around Christchurch

Head an hour south to Banks Peninsula, a landscape that was carved by volcanic eruptions more than 8m years ago. Trails lead through rocky valleys, bluffs and bays that are steeped in European and Māori history. The 1840 French settlement of Akaroa is a highlight, with French-named streets lined with colonial cottages. Sail the peninsula to catch a glimpse of diverse marine life including orcas, penguins, fur seals and Hector’s dolphin, one of the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin species.

There’s no better way to tour Christchurch than by stepping aboard a restored, heritage-era tram. The burgundy-and-cream vehicles, which ran on steam or horsepower when introduced in 1882, now run on an electric loop around the city. Buy a full-day ticket to hop on and off as you please, accompanied by commentary from your driver. Among the 17 stops are the Canterbury Museum and Botanic Gardens, New Regent Street and Cathedral Square.

Inspired by the English, punting on the River Avon has been a popular Christchurch pastime for decades. Board one of the flat-bottomed boats and let a guide, dressed in Edwardian clothes, punt you down the river past some of the city’s top landmarks. Float alongside the Botanic Gardens, Hagley Park and through the ever-changing city centre. Take in the weeping willows and birdlife as you navigate this 14km (8.7mi) river.

Escape the city for a day trip to Arthur’s Pass National Park, which is surrounded by the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps. It’s a two-hour drive from Christchurch to the park, but worth it to hike one of the many trails through beech forests, along rivers and up to mountaintops. The Devil’s Punchbowl is a favourite walk with waterfall views. Look out for the Kea, a colourful alpine parrot, as you wander through the wildflower fields.

Kick back at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and discover 21ha (52 acres) of exotic plants and trees. The gardens were established back in 1863 with the planting of a single English oak to celebrate Prince Albert’s marriage to Victoria. Today, there are more than 10 bird-spotted gardens, including a fragrant rose patch and a New Zealand area home to native species. Signature sights include the Peacock Fountain, sculptures and a conservatory that houses tropical orchids, succulents and carnivorous plants.

Take to the skies on the Christchurch Gondola, which provides sweeping views over the city and mountains to the Pacific Ocean. At the top, you can spend hours exploring walking trails that crisscross the Port Hills. Covered in green with pockets of bush and volcanic rocks, the hills are home to native wildlife with plenty of Māori and European history. The Bridle Path provides panoramic views of the area, while the Rapaki Track looks over Lyttelton Harbour and the city.

New Zealand is known for its high-octane sports, so get in the Kiwi spirit with a jet-boat ride down the Waimakariri River. These zippy boats can reach speeds of 48kmh (30mph) while traversing hairpin turns and executing 360-degree spins. Tours of up to an hour allow you to explore the river, which runs from the mountains to the sea. Visit deep canyons and braided, shallow sections of water while your driver points out the sights.

The bars in Christchurch may be well stocked with New Zealand bottles, but if you’re a connoisseur, there’s nothing like a day trip to the vineyards. Visit one of Christchurch’s nearby wine regions, including the Waipara Valley, Canterbury Plains and Waitaki Valley, all of which produce award-winning bottles of pinot noirs, rieslings and chardonnays. Enjoy tours and tasting sessions accompanied by fine dining featuring fresh, regional produce.

Take a scenic flight from Christchurch to really appreciate Canterbury’s diverse landscapes. A short trip by airplane, helicopter or even hot air balloon will allow you to marvel at the region’s glaciers, mountains and coastline. Soar over various landmarks, from the white-tipped peaks of the Southern Alps to Lyttelton Harbour and the city centre. From above, you can also appreciate the changing architecture and design of Christchurch’s urban centre.