Eateries
17 August 2026
A guide to the best pizza in Christchurch
Discover where to find the best pizza in Ōtautahi Christchurch, from woodfired and authentic Italian favourites to sourdough bases, New York-style slices and local institutions.
Where to find the best pizza in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Whether you're craving a simple Neapolitan, a giant New York-style slice or a Kiwi-inspired creation, Christchurch's pizza scene has something for everyone.
With chefs sourcing high-quality produce from nearby growers, mastering the balance of toppings, perfecting the sauces and taking their dough game seriously, you can taste the reasons why these pizza spots are popular with locals and visitors alike.
BASE Woodfired Pizza
One of Christchurch's most recognisable pizza spots, BASE specialises in authentic woodfired pizzas cooked in custom-built ovens. Their menu ranges from classic margherita and pepperoni pizzas through to signature creations like the ever-popular Sir George. Dine-in, takeaway and delivery are available across multiple city locations.
Good for:
Crispy woodfired bases, quality ingredients and a lively atmosphere in some of Christchurch's most popular dining precincts.
Locations:
Little High Eatery, Riverside Market, Montreal Street and Shirley.
Fire & Slice
A drive to the seaside village of Sumner is where you’ll find Fire & Slice, a local favourite for woodfired pizza that also earned a Bib Gourmand Award from the MICHELIN Guide 2026. The team work with small artisan growers and producers of cheese, meats and vegetables to source the freshest Canterbury ingredients to top the hand-stretched, authentic pizza bases.
Good for:
Thin-crust, carefully crafted bases topped with locally sourced ingredients.
Location:
Arbour Woodfired Pizza
Situated in the heart of Lyttelton, Arbour offers artisan woodfired pizzas, locally-made drinks and a relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere. The cosy space is full of lush greenery and the pizzas coming out of the roaring woodfire are anything but boring. Topped with sustainably sourced ingredients, including Akaroa Salmon, Barry’s Bay Cheese and locally grown produce, you can taste the quality and care in each bite.
Good for:
Rustic woodfired pizzas, a unique drinks list and a laid-back, homey vibe.
Location:
Where is the best authentic Italian pizza in Christchurch?
Francesca's Italian Kitchen
A long-standing destination for Italian cuisine, Francesca's serves traditional pizzas alongside classic pasta dishes and Italian favourites. The restaurant focuses on simple flavours, quality ingredients and a welcoming family-style atmosphere.
Good for:
Traditional Italian recipes, generous portions and a vibrant city location on New Regent Street.
Location:
Mediterranean Foods Trattoria & Deli
Attached to one of Christchurch's best-loved Italian grocery stores, Mediterranean Foods offers authentic Italian dining with woodfired pizzas, imported ingredients and a genuine trattoria feel. Open for lunch all week or dinner on Friday nights, the Trattoria focuses on authentic Italian ingredients and recipes for a true taste of Italy.
Good for:
Classic Italian flavours and a dining experience that feels straight out of Italy.
Location:
Tuam Street, Central Christchurch.
Bomba Pizza Napoletana
Bomba specialises in authentic Pizza Napoletana, with dough made fresh daily and cooked in the traditional Neapolitan style, fermenting for more than 30 hours. The result? An airy, lightly blistered base topped with flavourful ingredients and cooked to perfection.
Good for:
Soft, airy crusts, simple high-quality toppings and true Neapolitan techniques.
Location:
Where to find Christchurch's most iconic pizza restaurants?
Winnie Bagoes
A Canterbury icon, Winnie Bagoes has been serving distinctive gourmet pizzas since 1989. Known for inventive toppings and generous portions, it's a favourite for families, groups and casual nights out.
Good for:
Creative pizzas, local ingredients and a uniquely Kiwi pizza experience.
Locations:
Café Valentino
Open since 1991, Café Valentino is one of Christchurch's longest-running Italian restaurants. The popular spot continues to attract diners with its extensive menu of pizzas, pasta and Italian classics, as well as its vibrant interior decorated with a huge collection of signed show posters.
What to expect:
Buzzing atmosphere, large portions and traditional Italian hospitality.
Location:
Café Valentino
Where is the best sourdough pizza in Christchurch?
The Birdwood
A local favourite in Beckenham, The Birdwood has built a loyal following for its handcrafted pizzas served in a relaxed neighbourhood setting. Their pizzas are made using long-fermented dough and paired with a strong craft beer and wine selection for the perfect pizza night out.
What to expect:
Creative toppings, wood-fire char and a cosy local atmosphere.
Location:
Where is the best New York-style pizza in Christchurch?
Gussy's Pizza
What started in North Canterbury, operating out of the back of a truck and popping up at local events, now has a permanent home at the Sydenham Underpass, serving New York-style slices to all. Gussy's offers one size – a 16-inch hand-stretched pizza, baked hot and fast on a stone deck oven to achieve the perfect crisp base.
What to expect:
One-size, large pizzas, classic flavours alongside inventive monthly specials.
Location:
Gussy's Pizza
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