Activities
16 January 2026
9 activities for thrill seekers in Christchurch
Discover the ultimate adrenaline-pumping activities in Christchurch. From rock climbing and mountain biking to jet boating and ziplining, here’s your guide to the best thrills the city has to offer.
things to do
Christchurch is the place for thrill seekers
Ōtautahi Christchurch is made for thrills. The vibrant city in the heart of the South Island is a playground for adventure, perfect for thrill seekers and adventure hunters. Whether you’re chasing heart-pounding action or scenic outdoor escapes, this city and its surrounds deliver unforgettable experiences every time. Ready to push your limits? Here are the top thrills the city has to offer.
Mountain biking
Mountain biking is the ultimate thrill seekers sport and Christchurch is a haven of tracks and trails. Hit the hills at Christchurch Adventure Park or tackle the rugged terrain of the Port Hills for an adrenaline-fueled ride with epic scenery.
Top picks:
- Christchurch Adventure Park – World-class downhill trails and scenic chairlift rides.
- Port Hills tracks – Epic climbs and technical descents with unbeatable views.
- Bottle Lake Forest – A family-friendly option with flowing trails through pine forest.
Jet boating
Feel the rush of a lifetime as you skim across shallow waters at breakneck speed, thanks to the expert team at Alpine Jet Thrills.
A quintessential Kiwi experience, jet boating will leave you exhilarated as you skim across shallow waters at up to 80 km/h.
Combining speed, spins and stunning river scenery, this is an epic experience guaranteed to get your heart rate up and leave you smiling from ear to ear.
Adrenaline Forest
Test your limits at Adrenalin Forest, a high-wire obstacle course set among towering trees. With multiple levels of difficulty, it’s the ultimate challenge for those who love heights and adventure.
With six progressively harder levels, you’ll tackle rope swings, flying foxes, and wobbly bridges, perfect for testing your balance and courage.
Trapdoor Hydroslide at Parakiore
Looking for that stomach dropping, breath catching kind of thrill? Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre has just the thing!
New Zealand’s only trap door hydro slide is not for the faint-hearted, dropping you into a twisting, high-speed chute of pure chaos.
Perfect for those who love an aquatic adrenaline rush, there are multiple other slide options, including a tube slide you can go down with a buddy. Endless hydro-fun awaits!
Swimming with dolphins
There's nothing quite like getting up close to wildlife in their natural habitat. Swimming with dolphins is a bucket list item for many, for good reason!
Floating in the ocean while majestic dolphins swim and play around you is a completely thrilling experience.
Head to Akaroa for a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Black Cat Cruises. You're guaranteed an adventure that combines thrill with pure wonder.
Ziplining
Soar above the treetops and take in breathtaking views as you zipline through Christchurch Adventure Park.
It’s the perfect mix of speed, scenery and excitement, offering breathtaking views of the city and beyond. With four ziplines, the longest stretching over 1km, you're guaranteed to get your heart racing.
If you want to throw in a little competition, have a go on the dual ziplines and race your friend to the bottom!
Rock climbing
Whether you prefer indoor climbing walls or outdoor crags, Christchurch offers plenty of options to scale new heights. A great way to build strength and conquer fears, rock climbing is a challenging sport that combines focus and strength with adrenaline and courage.
Top picks:
- Clip ‘n Climb – Fun, colourful climbing walls for all ages.
- YMCA Climbing Wall – A great spot for beginners and experienced climbers alike.
- Uprising Bouldering – A climbing and bouldering gym for safe practice.
- Outdoor enthusiasts can head to Castle Hill for world-class bouldering just an hour from the city, or check out the many spots located in the Port Hills.
Christchurch Adventure Park
Welcome to the city’s home of adrenaline! From world-class mountain biking trails to scenic chairlift rides and ziplining, the Christchurch Adventure Park is a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
With plenty of activities to get the blood pumping, you can also enjoy the more peaceful offerings including the hiking trails and onsite cafe with unbeatable views. It’s the ultimate hub for outdoor adventure.
Walking & hiking
Feel the rush of expansive views and panoramic peaks as you explore Christchurch’s stunning landscapes on foot. You are spoilt for choice, from the Port Hills to the many tracks of the Banks, there’s a trail for every level.
Top picks:
- Rapaki Track – A popular Port Hills climb with panoramic views over the city and Southern Alps.
- Godley Head Walk – Coastal scenery meets WWII history on this stunning track overlooking Lyttelton Harbour.
- Victoria Park – Short loops and longer walks through native bush, perfect for a nature escape.
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