Drinks
16 January 2026
Christchurch nightlife
Discover Christchurch nightlife! From live music at The Church and dance parties in the sky at a rooftop bar, to the vibrant energy of Oxford Terrace and hidden speakeasies.
What are the best bars in Christchurch?
If you're after a few drinks, a groove to live music or something a little more creative, Ōtautahi Christchurch has you sorted for a good time once the sun goes down.
From rooftop bars and underground speakeasies to poppin’ dance floors and live music, experience Christchurch after dark and rediscover our exciting city all over again.
Where's a good area for nightlife in Christchurch? Oxford Terrace
Oxford Terrace, often referred to as 'The Terrace,' is the vibrant heart of Christchurch's nightlife, offering a scenic strip of bars and restaurants overlooking the Avon River.
We've highlighted some of the popular places below.
Delilah
Delilah transitions seamlessly from a sun-drenched riverside eatery during the day to a vibrant late-night destination.
The venue truly sparks to life after dark with live music every Friday and a rotating lineup of DJs who turn the chic interior into one of the city's most stylish dance floors.
If dancing's not your thing, tuck into a velvet booth for a stunning cocktail.
Fat Eddies's
A staple on any Christchurch night out, Fat Eddie’s is the ultimate jazz bar.
Located on the second level of The Terrace, their balcony overlooks the river, and their stage and dance floor is always packed and pumping with people dancing to live bands playing jazzy renditions of their favourite songs.
They also host different events throughout the week, so make sure to check out the schedule on their website.
The Little Fiddle
Uncover the charm of The Little Fiddle Irish Pub.
Located down one of the laneways at The Terrace (opposite the Bangalore Polo Club), with a cosy setting and a DJ lineup that knows how to keep the good times rolling, this is the perfect spot for a low-key yet lively night out.
It's boisterous, it's loud, and it's always fun on late nights here.
Chiwahwah Mexican Cantina Bar
Grab your pals and hit up Chiwahwah after 10pm, where the tables get pushed to the side and the DJ moves in!
This spot is another great one for those that enjoy dancing to live DJs.
We recommend grabbing some delicious Mexican delights here before the night takes you away.
Amazonita & Bangalore Polo Club
Immerse yourself in the luxurious vibes of Amazonita and the Bangalore Polo Club, two bars connected by an interior corridor.
Bangalore Polo Club is a great little bar with an incredible dance floor; it's often filled with peanut shells just to add to the fun!
Walk through the connected corridor, and you’ll find yourself in Amazonita. Here you'll have a little more space to bust some moves or grab a booth to sip your drink when you need to rest your feet.
Where are the rooftop bars in Christchurch?
The city's rooftop bar scene has reached new heights, offering panoramic views that stretch from the winding Avon River all the way to the snow-capped Southern Alps.
Whether you’re chasing a golden hour cocktail or a late-night dance party in the sky, the below places have you covered.
Pink Lady
With sweeping views across the city, Pink Lady is an amazing spot to sip a signature cocktail as the sun goes down.
You will not only be delighted by the views and the vibes, but also by the incredible food and drinks.
With a European fusion-inspired menu and renowned drink offering, you can settle in for the evening knowing your taste buds will be well taken care of.
Mr Brightside
Take the lift up to the top floor of the iconic Public Trust building to get your boogie on at Mr Brightside.
Here, the beats are as vibrant as the name suggests. Casual DJ nights and a lively atmosphere make this spot a must for anyone looking to dance the night away.
Soak in the views while you hit the D-floor.
Where are the hidden gem bars in Christchurch?
Beyond the lights of the main strips lies a world of clandestine sips and heritage marvels.
From basement speakeasies requiring a secret password to historic, high-vaulted churches, these venues prove that Christchurch’s best nights often happen in its most unexpected corners.
If you’re looking for a drink or a dance with a side of history, these are the hidden gems where the building is just as impressive as the cocktail list.
The Church Pub
No, you're not attending a sermon; you're at The Church for a night of vibrant live music.
One of the newest kids on the block, The Church is a unique bar in town, where you can get down to live bands in an old church building.
You can expect a big night out here.
O.G.B
Housed in a beautiful heritage building, nothing beats a few weekend drinks at OGB, especially with the sounds of live music filling the scene with sweet acoustic songs.
Whatever the season, OGB’s speakeasy-style bar is warm and welcoming, making for relaxed vibes in the sun or rugged up under the heaters.
Austin Club
Hidden in a former underground station, Austin Club is Christchurch’s quirky speakeasy.
To enter, you must find the pineapple door in a central alleyway and provide a monthly secret password.
Inside, you’ll find a moody, 1950s-inspired hideaway serving world-class cocktails alongside live jazz and swing.
Open until 3 am on weekends, it’s a sophisticated escape from the city streets above.
What are the iconic Christchurch bars?
While the city’s hospitality scene is constantly evolving, some names have earned a permanent place in the local hall of fame. These two icons are essential stops on any central city circuit
The Bog Irish Bar
A local favourite, The Bog is a good, old-fashioned Irish pub/bar which often hosts live bands.
It’s a great place to dance to old favourites and often draws crowds both young and old.
Smash Palace
Kick off your weekend with a bang at Smash Palace, a High Street icon that serves as the city’s favourite backyard.
Famous for its smash burgers and chill vibes, the magic really happens after dark.
The focal point is a retro school bus converted into a bar, surrounded by a gravel courtyard that hosts high-energy live music.
Whether it's raw indie-rock on the main stage or vinyl DJs spinning from a shipping container, the come-as-you-are dance floor under the stars is quintessential Christchurch.
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