Experience Antarctica in Ōtautahi Christchurch

During your stay, we encourage you to experience the vibrant culture and diverse offerings of Christchurch city.

Gateway to Antarctica

Welcome to Christchurch

Christchurch welcomes members of the Antarctic science and logistics community.

Christchurch is a hub for those on the way or returning from Antarctica. Having you here enriches our city and we can't wait to show you around.

This place has welcoming people and new experiences to discover.

See what attractions, activities and dining options might suit you to make your stay a memorable one.

Deals

National Antarctic Program deals

CAN Network

The Birdwood

10% off total food & beverage bill for National Antarctic Program Members

Enjoy hand-stretched Italian wood-fired sourdough pizzas, handcrafted pasta, delicious breakfast dishes or baked treats, vegan salads and freshly roasted coffee.

T&Cs apply

T&C's apply. Offer valid for National Antarctic Program Members only. Please advise the staff which National Antarctic Program you're affiliated with to redeem this deal. Deal valid from 30 April 2026 - 30 April 2027. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

View offer

CAN Network

Akaroa Stargazing

10% off on all tours for National Antarctic Program Members

Akaroa Stargazing is a family-owned and operated business, offering the closest dark sky experiences to Christchurch—only 90 minutes from the airport. National Antarctic Program members can enjoy 10% off any of our tours, including our best-seller Night Awe and the popular daytime tour Solar Explorer. Please use the promo code ANTARCTICA10 at checkout. Please note that for the French crew, we can offer our tours in French, subject to the availability of our French guide. Similarly, for the Italian crew, we can offer our tours in Italian, subject to Luca's availability.

T&Cs apply

T&Cs apply. This offer is exclusively available for members of the National Antarctic Program. Please advise the staff which National Antarctic Program you’re affiliated with to redeem this deal. Cannot be combined with any other offers. This offer is ongoing.

View offer

Hot air balloon over the Canterbury plains and hills

CAN Network

Ballooning Canterbury

15% off flights for National Antarctic Program Members

Float over the breathtaking Canterbury landscape on a scenic balloon ride with family-owned Ballooning Canterbury.

T&Cs apply

T&C's apply. Offer valid for NAPs only. Enter discount code ICE2025 in the promo box when booking online. Deal valid from 7 August 2026 - 30 April 2027. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

View offer

Deals

CAN Network

Christchurch Attractions

10% off Christchurch Attractions activities for National Antarctic Program Members

Explore the best of Christchurch with Christchurch Attractions! Receive a 10% discount off entry to the city’s iconic Tram, Gondola, Punting on the Avon and Botanic Gardens Tour experiences using the promo code ANTARCTICA – valid for single-entry and combo ticket options.

T&Cs apply

T&C's apply. This offer is exclusively available for members of the National Antarctic Program. Redeem at christchurchattractions.nz using the promo code ANTARCTICA. Please advise the staff which National Antarctic Program you're affiliated with to redeem this deal. Offer valid from 1 July 2026 – 31 March 2027. Not valid for Tramway Restaurant or Annual Pass purchases and cannot be combined with any other offers.

View offer

CAN Network

Russley Golf Course

Various packages available

Just minutes from Christchurch Airport, Russley offers a par 72 championship course, beautiful parkland surrounds and five tee options to suit different abilities. Visitors are welcome, with club hire, carts, practice facilities, a driving range, café and bar all available.

T&Cs apply

T&Cs apply. Offer valid for National Antarctic Program Members only. Packages available from 14 August 2026 - 9 April 2027.

View offer

Activities and attractions

Discover the best activities and attractions around Christchurch as well as what's happening around the city during your stay.

Diners sitting at tables outside Riverside Market

Christchurch weekend itinerary

In Ōtautahi Christchurch, with free days to fill as you please.

With a little planning, you can fit so much into a day or two, and we’ve designed this itinerary to inspire you. Whether you are solo, in a couple or a group, these ideas cover something for everyone.

View itinerary

Antarctic Gateway walking tour

Hear from scientists and artists, historians and curators, and discover the fascinating stories of Ōtautahi Christchurch's unique connections to the frozen continent.

Walk the tour

Patrons sitting in the lounge at The Welder

Eat & Drink

Discover great places to eat

Cosy cafés. Neighbourhood bars. Rooftop views. Romantic fine dining. With options to suit different tastes, we hope you find your flavour.

Food guide

Destinations

Our destinations

From stunning natural landscapes to adrenaline-pumping activities and relaxed eateries in the CBD, you'll find something special in Canterbury.

Explore the region

Couple enjoying the Sunrise Soak at He Puna Taimoana.

Things to do

Time & space for play

Christchurch is the gateway to the Canterbury region and home to spectacular experiences you will have within the South Island of New Zealand. Make some time to play and discover endless activities and attractions we have on offer.

Explore things to do

Antarctic related activities

Antarctic landmarks and attractions that celebrate Christchurch's connection to the frozen continent.

Airforce Museum of New Zealand

International Antarctic Centre

Magnetic Observatory Workshop

Akaroa Museum

Black Cat Cruises

Ferrymead Heritage Park

The Centre of Contemporary Art Toi Moroki (CoCA)

get in touch

How we can help

Our Gateway to Antarctica team is here to support, connect and develop opportunities for all International Antarctic Programs.

The Antarctic community is the core of our Gateway City status. We work closely with local organisations, businesses, scientists and other stakeholders. We connect you with key Antarctic partners to help take care of your work on and off the ice.

Connect with the team