Experience the most iconic experiences Christchurch has to offer
Ōtautahi is known for its spirit of fun and adventure, and there’s no better time than now to explore everything Christchurch has to offer.
Activities
16 January 2026
Ōtautahi Christchurch's most iconic experiences
Check out these must do experiences that belong on every bucket list, for visitors and locals alike!
Taste the flavour of Riverside Market
Named one of the best food markets in the world, Riverside Market is a vibrant and bustling indoor market located in the heart of the central city.
Discover local flavours from across the region, sample artisan produce, enjoy a craft brew, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere overlooking the stunning Avon River.
Punting, the Gondola & the Tram
It’s not a visit to Christchurch without experiencing at least one of these iconic attractions! Christchurch Attractions operates Punting on the Avon, the Christchurch Gondola, and the Christchurch Tram.
Each offers a unique perspective of the city—don’t miss the chance to see Christchurch from a new angle on one (or all) of these fun and different experiences.
Zip around Christchurch Adventure Park
Add a dash of height and a bucketload of adrenaline with a day spent at Christchurch Adventure Park.
Take the chairlift to the top and soar back down on four epic ziplines—the longest stretches over 1 kilometre!
Alternatively, enjoy a more mellow experience exploring the tracks and trails by foot or mountain bike and finish your adventure at the park’s café with pizza and a cold brew.
Hangs at The Arts Centre/Te Matatiki Toi Ora
The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora is an absolute gem in the heart of central Ōtautahi.
Kick off with coffee from Frances Nation grocer, then peruse The Custard Square Bookshop, a cute caravan of second-hand books. Then it’s back inside to browse specialised fashion at Indigo & Provisions.
After a few hours spent exploring, you’ll have well and truly earned some refreshments, and there’s no better spot than Cellar Door.
Swim or cruise with dolphins
Any chance to get up close to wildlife in their natural habitat is pretty special, and only a short drive from Christchurch, Akaroa is home to the rare Hector’s dolphin.
Swim or cruise alongside these majestic marine mammals with Black Cat Cruises on the magnificent Akaroa harbour.
With stunning scenery and up-close dolphin interactions, this is truly an experience you’ll never forget.
Soak in hot pools by the sea
Stretching coastlines, crashing waves and steaming hot pools – it really doesn't get much better than that.
Soak away all your stress in five luxurious hot pools at He Puna Taimoana in New Brighton, complete with stunning ocean views.
Cool off in the plunge pool or unwind in the steam room and sauna for total beachside bliss. For early risers, the sunrise soak is an absolute must!
Live it up in Lyttelton on a Saturday
A Saturday spent exploring the charming port town of Lyttelton is a weekend day well spent. Get there before lunch for their famous farmers’ market, selling everything from fresh produce and artisan products, with live music jazzing up the scene.
Grab a coffee and excellent cabinet food from Lyttelton Coffee Company then pop next door to Henry Trading for treasure trove focused on supporting local and ethical producers.
A day trip to Black Estate & Brew Moon
A fair few Christchurch city dwellers’ favourite day trip is a short drive north into wine country, more officially known as Waipara.
Spoilt for choice when it comes to cellar doors, designate a driver before setting off and reward them with a delicious lunch at Black Estate. Dine on a delicious seasonal menu and take in the rolling hill views of the valley and the vines. On your way back into the city, a pit stop at Amberley’s Brew Moon is highly recommended.
Jackson Bright
Strap in for an adventure to Hinewai & Hickory Bay
If one thing is true of Christchurch, day trip adventures are plentiful. If you’re after one slightly off the well-trodden path, head towards the southeast of Banks Peninsula for Hinewai Reserve, an ecological restoration wonderland.
Check out their extensive network of walking tracks to experience the regeneration of native vegetation and wildlife on a huge scale.
Drive on around the peninsula and you’ll find yourself at Hickory Bay, a popular surf spot with stunning vistas. Make a weekend of it and stay the night at the beautifully curated cottage and cabin at Hickory Bay Cold Water Surf Resort.
Play time for the young (and young at heart)
Looking for a family fun day in the city? Begin your morning with coffee for the adults, fluffies for the kids and brekkie for everyone at Child Sister, one of the city’s much-loved cafes. It’s a great spot to hit before crossing the road to Margaret Mahy Playground —playground heaven!
From giant slides to climbing walls and creative structures, this’ll keep the kids entertained for hours.
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