Winter
13 April 2025
Discover the art of the weekend in Christchurch. Experience restorative coastal soaks at He Puna Taimoana, boutique luxury stays, and curated artisanal dining.
Beautiful fresh days and cosy nights, snowy mountain tops and mulled wine by a crackling fire...If you’re needing a dose of quality time with your loved one or best friend, a winter weekend in Ōtautahi Christchurch is just the prescription.
The appeal lies in our balance: world-class wellness, architectural heritage and a culinary scene that punches well above its weight.
He Puna Taimoana hot pools in New Brighton offer a seaside soak that rivals international retreats.
For the most serene experience, opt for a sunrise session to watch the light break over the Pacific, or a twilight soak under the stars – they're a great way to begin or end the day.
Moving between the five saltwater pools and the glass-fronted sauna provides a meditative reset that is a non-negotiable for a premium weekend itinerary.
Christchurch’s cafe and coffee scene is delightfully diverse, with boutique coffee roasters and bustling cafes on every corner of the city.
From sit-down breakfasts to pastries on the go, there is something to match every mood and caffeine craving.
Head to The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora and spend some time soaking up the beauty of this historic centre.
You and your loved one can develop your very own signature scent at Fragranzi, Christchurch’s artisan perfumery located at the Arts Centre.
Sit down for a meal at Cellar Door, an award-winning wine bar with a beautifully curated menu to match.
Finish your night by catching a movie at Lumière Cinemas, a boutique and beautiful cinema housed in the West Lecture Block of the Arts Centre, Showing films outside of the mainstream.
On day two of your Christchurch stay, it's time to get up close and personal with some of New Zealand’s most diverse and unique wines.
Wine lovers are spoilt for choice in Christchurch and Canterbury with the small but mighty Waipara Valley region, the coastal views of the wineries in Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula, or the world-class experience of Tussock Hill on the Port Hills.
Enjoy tastings, tours, cheese boards or sit-down degustation menus at these cellar doors and vineyards from the sea to the city, to the hills.
When you are back in the city, treat yourself to a little luxury with a massage for two at one of the many spas in Christchurch.
Moss Spa is an inner-city oasis of wellness, rejuvenation and relaxation. Offering an extensive array of high-quality spa treatments using the latest and very best products, you will leave feeling revitalised, refreshed and, most importantly, pampered.
Another option in the city is Lovoir Day Spa, an award-winning spa renowned for its stunning design and tranquil setting. Lovoir offers tailor-made facial and skin treatments, an array of massages, body care, and complete pamper packages.
One of Christchurch’s most loved and beautiful streets, New Regent Street is an amazing place to spend an evening.
For an exquisite culinary experience, Twenty Seven Steps is worth checking out. Climb the steps into what the team describe as a ‘cosy drinking den with an old-world charm atmosphere’ - sounds perfect for a winter's night out, right? Hearty, flavoursome meals, created from well sourced ingredients and a predominately local wine list, tick tick tick.
After dinner, head straight to The Last Word, a suave whisky and cocktail lounge, offering an extensive selection of over 320 different types of whisky. You can also enjoy classic cocktails and delicious bites while revelling in some of the finest drinks around. Another fun spot for a night cap is gin gin, a colourful and funky gin bar with velvet seats and delicious drinks. Perch yourself outside under a heater and watch the vibrant street come alive at night.
With a little forward planning, you might be lucky enough to catch a show at the Isaac Theatre Royal.
Built in 1908, the stunning theatre has a grand history in Christchurch and is the only operational Edwardian style theatre left in New Zealand.
The Theatre hosts a broad range of shows from classics, comedy, musicals, to movie nights. Be sure to check out the schedule ahead of your trip and grab tickets for a wonderful night out.
Located just around the corner from New Regent Street, an early dinner before heading to The Theatre will complete a perfect night.
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