Activities
21 May 2025
3 days in Christchurch
There's plenty to see and do in the space of 3 days.
3-day Ōtautahi Christchurch itinerary
Christchurch has plenty to see and do in the space of 72 hours! Below is just a taste of what can be squeezed into a long weekend or the start of a South Island holiday. Our sample itinerary is full of ideas to help you plan your perfect 3-day escape.
Day one - Christchurch city
Morning
Āmiki Tours
Experience culture in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Enjoy a 75-minute Ōtautahi cultural walk with Āmiki Tours. It is a perfect way to discover cultural treasures hidden in plain sight and learn how local Māori are expressed in the rebuild of a city.
Riverside Market
Make a stop at the Riverside Market. This purpose-built two-level establishment overlooking the Avon River is the perfect spot to grab lunch. There is a huge variety of culinary experiences and over 30-odd food outlets to choose from.
Afternoon
Christchurch Adventure Park
After spending the morning exploring the central city, make your way to the Christchurch Adventure Park. At more than 350 hectares, it is the largest mountain bike park in the Southern Hemisphere.
Take in the scenery from the 1.8-kilometre chairlift, race through the valley on a dual zipline tour or simply chill out on a large deck at the park’s café and bar.
He Puna Taimoana
To finish up your day of activities, head to New Brighton and soak in the coastal views and breathe in the sea air at He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools.
Evening
Take your pick for dinner
From casual affairs to something more sophisticated, the city is packed full of great places to eat and drink. Venture out and enjoy all the amazing tastes of Christchurch.
Day two - Christchurch city
Morning
Christchurch Tram
Indulge in some of the city's popular art, history and cultural hotspots. Take a journey on one of the beautifully restored heritage Christchurch Trams, transporting you back in time and through the changing cityscape.
Gardens & art tour
Visit the Botanic Gardens and the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū for unique exhibits and a taste of history. For a more modern twist on art, enjoy an inspiring street art tour from Watch This Space.
Café and brunch scene
Christchurch has a strong café and brunch scene, with a huge variety of establishments serving up quality food and coffee around the city.
Afternoon
Punting on the Avon River
A visit to Christchurch wouldn't be complete without experiencing the iconic Punting on the Avon. Sit back, relax and let a punter dressed in Edwardian attire show you why Christchurch is well known for beautifully curated parks and gardens.
International Antarctic Centre
Spend your afternoon visiting some iconic attractions on the city's fringe. Head north of the central city to the International Antarctic Centre, where you can explore an icy way of living and cold-loving wildlife.
Evening
Dinner on The Terrace
Situated in a prime position along the Ōtākaro/Avon River front is a raft of new hospitality joints, making up 'The Terrace.' A perfect place to enjoy some local fare and drinks.
Day three - Akaroa & Christchurch
Morning
Travel to Akaroa
Travel to the little township of Akaroa located in the Banks Peninsula, just an hour and a half from Christchurch city. On the way, stop in at Little River for a coffee break and a visit to the local art gallery.
Shamarra Alpacas
A visit to Shamarra Alpacas gives you a healthy serving of cuddles, learning, exploration and the natural therapy of the great outdoors. This is no ordinary trip to an alpaca farm. This is an interactive tour around the ultimate land of cute.
Afternoon
Lunch at Ma Maison
From sweet treats to savoury delights, Akaroa has a number of eateries for every palate and every occasion. Enjoy lunch by the harbour at Ma Maison, who offer a menu full of culinary expressions of the region. The focus is on freshness and simplicity, using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.
Akaroa harbour cruises
Experience the natural beauty and vibrant wildlife of Akaroa Harbour on a relaxing nature cruise. Both Akaroa Dolphins and Black Cat Cruises operate daily trips, giving you the chance to take in dramatic coastal landscapes and, with a bit of luck, encounter the rare Hector’s dolphin, penguins, and an array of seabirds.
Evening
Tramway Restaurant
Enjoy the Tramway Restaurant, which offers curated seasonal dining combined with evening sightseeing in central Christchurch for a truly unique experience!
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