Experience Antarctica in Ōtautahi Christchurch

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

On this page:

Gateway to Antarctica

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. 

National Antarctic Program deals

CAN Network
Bar Franco
10% Off Total Food & Beverage Bill For National Antarctic Program Members

Experience the warm embrace of Mediterranean hospitality at Bar Franco, where exceptional cuisine and memorable interactions come together in a welcoming atmosphere. Indulge in our diverse menu inspired by Mediterranean flavours.

T&Cs apply

T&C's 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. Offer valid from May 30, 2024, to May 30, 2025. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

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OGB Platter
CAN Network
O.G.B Bar & Restaurant
10% Off Total Food & Beverage Bill For National Antarctic Program Members

With the most amazing team, live music every weekend and carefully curated food & drinks, you must try this little slice of paradise in the square.

T&Cs apply

T&C's 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. Offer valid from May 30, 2024, to May 30, 2025. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

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CAN Network Kaiser Brew Garden
CAN Network
Kaiser Brew Garden
10% Off Total Food & Beverage Bill For National Antarctic Program Members

Kaiser Brew Garden is a working micro-brewery in the heart of Christchurch- upstairs at Riverside Market. Come and enjoy our Bavarian inspired hospitality.

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 2024 - 30 April 2025. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

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CAN Network 18th hole and clubhouse
CAN Network
Russley Golf Club
Green Fee Discount – Special Offer Of $85 (Normally $110) For National Antarctic Program Members

Play golf or work from the café , enjoy special packages from a flexi membership of 15 games for $1161, providing full members access to the club and discounts at the café and pro shop. Venue Hire is also available from $200/room, including 4 options of room sizes.

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 31 May 2024 – 31 May 2025. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

View offer
CAN Network
The Church
10% Off Total Food & Beverage Bill For National Antarctic Program Members

Set in one of Christchurch's last standing heritage buildings, The Church Pub is the cornerstone of Christchurch Hospitality. With live music at the forefront, wood-fired pizzas, a large open bar area, lush mezzanine floor and a beautiful sun-soaked courtyard, The Church has something for every age!

T&Cs apply

T&C's 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. Offer valid from May 30, 2024, to May 30, 2025. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

View offer
Cooking in pizza oven at The Birdwood
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 2024 - 30 April 2025. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

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Gin Gin Bar
CAN Network
Gin Gin
10% Off Total Beverage Bill For National Antarctic Program Members

Here at Gin Gin we are passionate about showcasing the finest local gins, crafted right here in our backyard. Join us for expertly mixed cocktails or curated gin flights, or even a wee GnT to finish your day. Our small, dedicated team is here to share good chats and even better gins. The Chef’s out back use the freshest local produce to create award-winning dishes that pair perfectly with your drink. Cheers to good company and a good ‘Gin-Wag’!

T&Cs apply

T&C's apply. All patrons must be over 18 and provide a valid form of Identification if they look under 25. This offer is exclusively available for members of the National Antarctic Program. Please make an online reservation https://gingin.co.nz/book-now/ adding your National Antarctic Programme name and country to the comments section, to ensure we can accommodate you. Offer valid from September 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

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CAN Network Russley Golf Club
CAN Network
Russley Golf Club Cart Hire
Cart Hire Discount – Special Offer Of $45 (Normally $59) For National Antarctic Program Members

Carts available at special rates to make your Russley Experience even more enjoyable.

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 31 May 2024 – 31 May 2025. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

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CAN Network Kayaking
CAN Network
The Backpacker Group
Save 20% On Your Annual Membership For National Antarctic Program Members

The Backpacker Group is the largest New Zealand collective of hostels and activities nationwide offering deals to members. Sign up today and start saving on major experiences like Kaikoura Whale Watch, AJ Hackett Bungy, Redwood Tree Walks, Christchurch and Kaikoura Ziplines and heaps more! You can hire a car for an outing or jump on the Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries to spend time in Wellington. Follow us on social media to view all the epic experiences you can have while visiting our beautiful country.

T&Cs apply

T&C's apply. Offer valid for National Antarctic Program Members only. Email belinda@thebackpackergroup.co.nz to receive your 20% membership discount code. Deal valid from 30 June 2024 - 30 June 2025. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

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CAN Network Punting
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 2024 – 31 March 2025. Not valid for Tramway Restaurant or Annual Pass purchases and cannot be combined with any other offers.

View offer
CAN Network 18th hole and clubhouse
CAN Network
Russley Golf Club
Green Fee Discount – Special Offer Of $85 (Normally $110) For National Antarctic Program Members

Play golf or work from the café , enjoy special packages from a flexi membership of 15 games for $1161, providing full members access to the club and discounts at the café and pro shop. Venue Hire is also available from $200/room, including 4 options of room sizes.

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 31 May 2024 – 31 May 2025. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

View offer
CAN Network IHF Health Club
CAN Network
IHF Health Club At The Crossing
$29 Day Pass For National Antarctic Program Members

IHF Health Club offers a welcoming space focused on providing a daily dose of Your Everyday Luxury intertwined with promoting a healthy body and mind. With an IHF Day pass you can experience all our facilities and immerse yourself in an overall well-being-focused environment. From our fitness-focused spaces to our recovery areas and everything in between, IHF Health Club is the place to escape the cold and embrace the warmth!

T&Cs apply

T&Cs: 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. Offer valid from August 31, 2024 to 30 April 2025. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

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Colony
CAN Network
Colony At The Crossing
10% Off Everything In Store For National Antarctic Program Members

Authentic New Zealand mead, liqueurs, natural skincare and gifts since 1868. Enjoy an in-store mead tasting and the story behind these iconic products.

T&Cs apply

T&C's 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. Offer valid from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2025. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

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.

Ziplining at the Chistchurch Adventure Park with the city in the background.

What's on

Christchurch is a city of good times, where people come together and have a little fun. We celebrate the arts, world-class sporting heroes, innovative business and diverse communities; the calendar is always full, and we wouldn't have it any other way.


What's on
Diners sitting at tables outside Riverside Market

Christchurch day itinerary

In Ōtautahi Christchurch, with a free day to fill as you please?

With a little planning, you can fit so much into just one day, 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.

Christchurch day itinerary
Antarctic Audio Tour Antarctic Mural

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.



Explore eat & drink

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.


Antarctic Ridges Landscape

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
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