Activities

9 January 2026

The wellness guide to Christchurch

Rejuvenate in Ōtautahi Christchurch with these top wellness experiences. Explore saltwater pools, boutique yoga studios, and scenic Port Hills trails.

Lady taking time out to relax and read a book by the lake in Hagley Park.

Things to do

The key ingredients for a day of wellness in Ōtautahi Christchurch

Christchurch is a city of balance and harmony, a place that cares about people, which makes it the perfect destination for the very best wellness experiences.

In and amongst the comings and goings of our everyday lives, it’s important to take the time to slow down and find inspiration, rest and recovery.

Where can you do hot yoga in Christchurch? Soul Studio

Looking for some slow, stretchy movement to soothe your body and mind?

Soul Studio in Riccarton offers a variety of yoga classes for all levels in a peaceful and inviting atmosphere.

Their experienced instructors help you relax, focus, and connect with your mind, body, and spirit.

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Soul Studio set up with yoga mats
Sudima city Moss Spa reception

Where's a popular day spa in Christchurch central to get a massage? Moss Spa

Moss Spa in the central city offers a wide range of indulgent treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, all designed to leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

With a serene atmosphere and attentive staff, it's the perfect place to escape daily life and pamper yourself.

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Where can you try a float tank in Christchurch? O-Studio

From luxurious float tanks with a super-saturated Epsom salt and water solution that melts away stress, to contrast therapy (sauna + ice bath) that supercharges circulation and boosts mental clarity, every experience at O-Studio is designed to help you feel your best.

Add in expert-led yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes, and you’ve got a holistic wellness sanctuary where body and mind thrive.

You can find them at The Welder in Christchurch central, and in Rolleston.

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Patrons sitting in the lounge at The Welder
Couple enjoying a sunrise soak at He Puna Taimoana

Are there hot pools in Christchurch? Yes, He Puna Taimoana

Escape to these beachside saltwater hot pools in New Brighton and reap the benefits a good soak can provide: calm the nervous system, minimise inflammation and boost circulation.

Not only are there five hot pools (all of varying temperatures), but you can also experience the cold plunge pool, steam room and sauna, all providing their own health benefits.

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Where's a good the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

No guide to a wellness day in Ōtautahi would be complete without a mention of the Botanic Gardens.

They are one of the city’s treasured green spaces, and it’s easy to spend a meditative few hours wandering the many pockets and getting lost in the beauty of nature.

Make sure you walk past Ilex Café and enjoy a moment of mindfulness with a coffee or treat from their very tempting cabinet.

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Family on the bridge in the botanic garden
Breath work at The Cove

Where can you train, breathe and recover in one place? The Cove

This modern studio blends strength training, mindful movement, and breathwork to help you build resilience from the inside out.

Recover like a pro with contrast therapy and Normatec compression boots, or elevate your mental clarity with guided breath sessions.

Whether you’re looking to train, breathe, or restore, The Cove offers a premium, community-driven space for total wellbeing.

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The best walk in Christchurch with a view? Crater Rim Walkway

Head for the Port Hills, get active and enjoy spectacular views from the Crater Rim Walkway.

This popular hike follows the arching rim of the extinct Lyttelton volcano and provides scenic vistas of the city in one direction and Banks Peninsula in the other.

If you’re an avid tramper and have a whole day to spare, you can tackle the entire 20km walk (and that’s just one way), or if you just want to get the blood flowing and spend an hour or two exploring, there are many different sections you can pick from.

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Ladies enjoying a walk on Godley Head Track.
Teens bodyboarding in Sumner
J Apse

Is surfing good for your wellbeing? Yes, and you can try it for yourself at Learn to Surf in Sumner

Ready to ride the waves and boost your wellbeing?

Learn to Surf in Sumner makes it easy and fun for all ages to experience the benefits of surfing.

The ocean sport not only provides a full-body workout to help build strength, balance, and cardiovascular fitness, but also offers numerous mental health benefits.
In the waves, stress melts away, confidence soars, and mindfulness comes naturally.

With expert instructors and gear hire available, your surf adventure starts here.

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