Christchurch / Otautahi Today
Following the 2010-2011 earthquakes, Christchurch / Ōtautahi has re-emerged as a vibrant, ever-changing city. Lonely Planet has listed it as one of the top 10 cities to visit in 2013.
What's new in the "pop-up" city
Christchurch guides
- Lonely Planet has described Christchurch as "re-emerging as one of New Zealand's most exciting cities". View the Lonely Planet Post-Quake Guide to Christchurch for tips on how to spend a couple of days in the city.
- Christchurch is home to many pop-up cafes, restaurants and bars. Keep up-to-date on the latest openings by reading the Christchurch "pop up" blog.
Central city shopping
A new retail and cafe precinct called Re:START featuring over 30 retail shops built in fashionably presented shipping containers has recently opened in the Cashel Mall area of Cashel Street.
More than 95% of the shopping malls, supermarkets and petrol stations in Christchurch city are back in operation.
Eating & drinking
Whether you're after a five-star dining experience or simply want to go somewhere for great coffee, Christchurch City can cater to your needs. Check out our top picks for each of the key surburban areas for dining in Christchurch.
Where to stay
Currently, Christchurch has more than 9,100 commercial accommodation guest rooms. However, there are some hotels and backpacker premises that are no longer operating in the CBD area.
This is placing some restriction on accommodation availability at peak holiday times or during major events. We advise travellers to book their Christchurch City accommodation well in advance of travel. There is generally plenty of accommodation available on the outskirts of Christchurch City and across the Canterbury region.
What to see & do
The majority of our visitor attractions and activities are operating. However, some activities and attractions in the central city and on the Port Hills to the east of the city are not operating.
For example, there is no access to buildings and activities in Cathedral Square. Other key tourism attractions that are not currently operating include the Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Art Gallery and the Christchurch Arts Centre.
Getting to and around Christchurch
Christchurch International Airport and Addington Railway Station have not been affected by any of the earthquake activity. All public transport systems and networks are operating normally. View all Christchurch transport options.
Useful links
