Seasonal

24 November 2025

Ōtautahi Christchurch ultimate summer guide

Experience the best of summer in Ōtautahi Christchurch, with events, activities and things to do in 2025-2026. Here's your ultimate guide to summer fun in Christchurch.

Discover, plan and enjoy the best of Ōtautahi Christchurch this summer

Summer is here and Christchurch is ready for another season of sunny days, warm nights and sweet summer bliss. The city has you covered for events and activities so you can make the most of the season – from sun-soaked beaches and lush parks to buzzing markets and outdoor adventures, Christchurch offers endless ways to enjoy the warmer months.

Explore the best attractions, events and hidden gems that make Christchurch the place for summertime fun.

Why is Christchurch so special in summer?

You can’t beat a Kiwi summer, especially in Christchurch. Because of the stunning natural playgrounds that weave through the city, the many alfresco dining options and the range of outdoor activities on offer, summer days are easily filled in Ōtautahi. 

Teens bodyboarding in Sumner

Natural playgrounds

Christchurch is a city immersed in nature. Hagley Park’s green heart, Banks Peninsula’s rugged beauty, and multiple beaches offer endless escapes. In summer, parks bustle with activity, Sumner and New Brighton host water sports and family fun, while the Port Hills provide breathtaking walks with sweeping views across city and coast.

Explore beaches
Craft Embassy friends on balcony

Alfresco dining

The dining scene in Christchurch is already something special, and thanks to the many alfresco options it is even more enjoyable when the weather is warm. Enjoy lazy long lunches, afternoon cocktails or balmy evening dinners.

Discover favourite local spots

Compact, modern city

Christchurch’s central city comes to life in summer. With a compact, walkable central hub, you can experience the best dining to stunning parks, the Avon River to high end shopping and unique attractions all in one sunny afternoon. Looking for inspiration to fill a full day of summer fun in the city?

Find inspiration here
3 friends walking on the Port Hills, Christchurch.

The best short walks in Christchurch to try this summer

Looking to connect with nature, enjoy the warm weather and get in some exercise? Lucky for you, Christchurch is surrounding by stunning walks of all lengths and difficulty levels. If you’re looking for something short and sweet, check out our guide to short walks around Christchurch.

For more information on longer walks, hill walks, coastal trails and tracks, have a read of the walking and hiking tracks in Christchurch below.

Guide to Christchurch walks

Christchurch summer events and festivals guide 2025-2026

From major sporting fixtures to arts, culture and epic music, Christchurch has a summer events calendar with something for everyone.

Family-friendly activities to check out this summer in Christchurch

Looking for ways to entertain the whānau this summer? Christchurch has you covered, with plenty of family-friendly, outdoor activities to make the most of the sunshine and quality time together.

The best ways to get around Christchurch this summer – walking, cycling, buses and more

One of the great things about exploring Christchurch is how quicka and easy it is to get around! With a compact, flat city centre, light traffic and extensive cycle ways, you’ll find moving about the city a breeze.

For flexible and fun sightseeing around the city, why not spend the day hopping on and off the Christchurch Tram? Or bike and scoot your way around Christchurch for some fresh summer air. With nine main cycle routes connecting the suburbs with the central city, getting around on two wheels is easy.

How to move around the city
Ladies shopping at Riverside

Where to find the best shopping in Christchurch?

Looking for some retail therapy to freshen up the summer wardrobe? With Christchurch’s modern central heart, a day out and about window shopping or finding new forever pieces is always a good time. Find a full guide to the best shopping in Christchurch.

Shopping guide

Where to eat & drink in Christchurch during summer

Whether its morning coffee, afternoon drinks or sunset dinners, wining and dining outside is one of the true delights of summer. Warm days and balmy evenings spent with friends enjoying great food is hard to beat! Here are some local favourites.

Summer dining guide
Inside the Ilex Cafe
Selfie with street art

Discover street art this summer

Walking around Christchurch city is an activity in itself, thanks to the stunning artworks that decorate the buildings and walls. Known as a hub for impressive street arts, the city is full of colour and creativity, making it a joy to wander the summer days away marvelling at.

Check out some of the incredible works and where to find them.

Celebrating street art in the city
Couple entering a hotel foyer

Stay in Ōtautahi Christchurch

Ōtautahi Christchurch is home to spectacular experiences to fill your days as well as comfortable places to spend your nights.

Find your perfect stay with our wide range of accommodation options to ensure you feel right at home.

Explore accommodation guide
Christchurch coastline with Southern Alps in the backgraound.

Hidden gems of Ōtautahi Christchurch

Ōtautahi Christchurch locals love to be in the know, and that means being up on the city’s many hidden gems. The city is a playground for nature lovers, big-time foodies and those searching for a little peace and quiet.

Here are a few favourite local spots, too good to be kept a secret.

Discover hidden gems
Greystone Winery Courtyard with barrels

Top day trips from Christchurch

Once you've explored all Ōtautahi Christchurch has to offer it's time to discover nature's playground we have at our doorstep.

With stunning landscapes and hidden gems in every direction, a short drive will always take you somewhere spectacular.

Enjoy top day trips

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