A guide to the Christchurch CBD

Amidst beautiful heritage buildings and green spaces, a modern central city sits in the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

People sitting in the sun on the Terrace steps by the Avon River.

Things To Do

Get to know the CBD of Ōtautahi Christchurch

With new and exciting places constantly opening, the city is ever-changing and always full of surprises. Get up to speed on the vibrant inner-city and check out what to do and see.

Two students skateboarding in front of the Bridge Of Remembrance.

How to get around

Whether it’s by car, public transport, e-scooters or foot, inner city Christchurch is greatly accessible. Most public buses will get you into the CBD and if cycling is more your thing – you’re in luck! You’ll find many cycle-ways and lanes on your way around town. Going by car? Don’t fret, it’s easy to find parking nearby your favourite shops.

Where to get your coffee fix

Start your day with an epic cup of Christchurch coffee. The cafe scene in the city is top notch and on almost every corner you’re bound to find a coffee shop with passionate and friendly staff ready to serve up a delicious brew. Check out these favourite city spots.

Cup of hot chocolate from The Garden Hotel

Red Tram driving down city mall with Bridge of Remembrance in the background.

Catch a tram

It's as true to Ōtautahi as it gets and a great way to see the city from a new perspective. This unique experience combines history with sightseeing and is perfect for visitors or locals who want a different way of moving around the city. The beautifully restored heritage trams are family friendly and even better... kids go free! The hop-on-hop-off tickets allow you to visit the sights at your leisure, with the friendly drivers sharing all the knowledge of the city with you.

Taste the flavours of the Riverside Market

An indoor market set in the centre of the city, Riverside Market is one of Ōtautahi’s most loved foodie spots. With an array of passionate, local businesses calling the market home, wander the stalls and soak up all the delicious delights. If the sun is shining, park up at one of the outdoor tables and dig into the delicious eats on offer. Did we mention that The Australian recently named Riverside Market as one of the best indoor food markets in the world?! Definitely a must visit.

Dad and child taking a bite out of food at Riverside

Visit the Arts Centre

For the art lovers or those who appreciate a little heritage, a wander around The Arts Centre is definitely one to add to your list. A hub for creativity and arts, the centre is set in the strengthened and beautifully restored buildings that date back to 1877. The centre is home to boutique stores with local goods, a number of different museums and galleries, a perfume studio where you can make your very own scent, as well some delicious food and beverage stops. Check out The Fudge Cottage for a sweet treat, Quad Eatery for a coffee, or The Cellar Door for wine tasting and lunch.

Find a favourite gin

Discover the world of New Zealand gin at The Juniper Collective. Located in the heart of the city, this boutique offers a carefully curated selection of the finest gins on the market. The boutique is a place for exploration and discovery, for the gin lovers and those not so familiar with the spirit who are keen to learn. The knowledgeable staff will be on hand to help you find a new favourite bottle to take away and enjoy.

Discover delicious dining

Christchurch is a foodie haven, there is no doubt about it. In the CBD there are endless options for brunch, lunch, afternoon nibbles, drinks and dinner. Check out the bars and restaurants along The Terrace, the fabulous vendors at Little High or the tasty treats at The Crossing for easy central dining. There are a number of great cafes and coffee spots too.

Explore New Regent Street

With its colourful, Spanish Mission style architecture, New Regent Street is a great foodie location that boasts an abundance of unique restaurants, vibrant bars and indulgent dessert spots. Go for fine dining or more casual eats, sip away at whiskey lounge The Last Word or head straight for something sweet at Rollickin Gelato. If you nab a table outside you might even catch the tram running down the middle of the street. It's as iconic to Christchurch as it gets!

Tram moving down New Regent Street with lots of people sitting outside cafes enjoying coffee.

Explore the history

The Christ Church Cathedral is synonymous with the city and while the damage from the earthquake is still being worked on today, you can check out the progress and read about the project at the site. Be sure to also head over to the transitional cathedral, the site that was built as a temporary home while the Christ Church Cathedral is repaired. Did we mention that it is the only cathedral in the world that is made of cardboard? When exploring Cashel Street, the Bridge of Remembrance is another one to check out. A memorial for two world wars, the impressive structure is hard to miss.

Unwind in Christchurch Botanic Gardens

An inner-city sanctuary, The Botanic Gardens need to be on every nature-lovers list when exploring Christchurch. Just a 15-minute walk from the central city, the gardens offer a tranquil setting to walk, sit, watch and relax. For a proper tour of the area there is the option of Christchurch Attractions electric shuttle, with live commentary for a comfortable and informative overview of this beautiful space!