Seasonal
22 March 2026
Top 10 winter activities in Christchurch
Ōtautahi is a wintertime wonderland waiting to be discovered – and we have you covered (literally) for things to do on a winter’s day.
On this page:
What makes Christchurch a great winter destination?
When the weather starts to cool, Christchurch turns into a vibrant winter playground.
Offering everything from snowy adventures to cosy indoor experiences.
It’s the perfect base for exploring the region or simply enjoying the city’s cool seasonal charm.
Discover our top 10 things to do this winter.
Discover the wonders of the Antarctic
What better way to get out of the winter storm than to experience an even colder one indoors?
The International Antarctic Centre celebrates the city’s unique gateway status through interactive experiences and rides.
Meet penguins and huskies, ride a Hägglund over bumpy terrain, and learn everything there is to know about this extreme environment.
Carve out memories at Alpine Ice
Can’t get enough of the cold?
Lace up ya skates and head to Alpine Ice.
With public skating sessions every day, this ice-skating rink is a great place to head for a family day of physical entertainment.
They have everything you need there – all you have to do is check the session times!
Explore cultural Christchurch
The Christchurch Art Gallery and the neighbouring Arts Centre offer a vibrant window into the city’s creative heart, bringing together contemporary exhibitions and lively calendar of events.
The Christchurch Art Gallery showcases an ever‑changing mix of local and international art, while the Arts Centre’s restored Gothic buildings house studios, boutique galleries, shops, cafes and a boutique cinema.
Both are within walking distance from one another and provide a welcome, cosy environment to escape the winter cold.
What are the best activities to get out & about in Christchurch this winter?
Take a self guided walking tour
Ōtautahi Christchurch is a city made for exploring on foot, and the self‑guided audio tours are an easy way to uncover fascinating stories at your own pace.
Each walk has a different focus from historic and cultural landmarks, architecture to the coastal pathway.
With crisp winter days and quieter streets, it’s the perfect season to walk them all!
Wander in our winter wonderland
Discover our parks, hills, rivers and beaches with an exhilarating walk, hike or bike in the crisp winter air.
Rug up, glove up, scarf up, wrap up and make the most of a brisk blue day.
Ōtautahi Christchurch boasts one of the driest winter climates across the motu, and above average sunshine hours help brighten any winter’s day, so beat the winter blues and see why we love to make the most of this time of year.
Zip up & away to see the Southern Alps
Combine the real rush of adrenaline with great views of the city and its sights, where you can see all the way from the ocean to the spectacular Southern Alps on a crisp, clear bluebird day.
You can’t visit Christchurch without a visit to the Christchurch Adventure Park!
So, take to the skies and get a unique perspective on our corner of the world.
Image credit: Mt Hutt
Head to the slopes
Christchurch is an ideal base for winter skiing, with more than 10 ski fields sitting just 90 minutes to two hours from the city.
You can head to Mt Hutt for its high‑altitude snow, long season, and wide‑open terrain, or choose Porters for a convenient, family‑friendly day on the mountain.
If you’re seeking something more adventurous, the Craigieburn Range offers classic club‑field skiing with dry powder, challenging chutes, and a distinctly Kiwi mountain atmosphere.
With such a diverse range of ski areas so close by, it’s easy to start your day in the city, pick the mountain that matches your style, and be carving fresh tracks soon after.
How to spend a relaxing winter's day in Christchurch?
Stock up on seasonal goodies
Winter weekends are great for rugging up and exploring our local farmers' markets.
Grab a hot coffee or warm porridge and stock up on seasonal goodies.
Enjoy the ambience with many markets offering live music.
Our regional farmers' and artisan markets bring the best local producers together with goods ranging from artisan breads, cheeses, honey, seasonal produce and sweet treats.
The markets are also a great destination to head to for unique gifts.
Credit: D Mackenzie
Heat up with a hot pool
Warm up while soaking in stunning ocean views at He Puna Taimoana.
Immerse yourself in the five luxurious hot pools or step into the steam room or sauna as you watch the waves roll onto the shore.
For an extra special start to your day, experience the most luxurious session yet, the Sunrise Soak.
Perfect for a special occasion, a well-deserved treat, or a wonderful gift for pampering and relaxation.
Complete relaxation awaits you this winter.
Is winter the best time to stargaze in Christchurch?
Awe in the aurora
Winter is the perfect time to witness the Aurora Australis – the Southern Lights.
Experience the stellar sights of the Banks Peninsula night sky in this stargazing group tour.
Including naked eye, binoculars and telescope observations, learn about the night skies in this immersive experience in one of the darkest places in the world.
Follow your guide, Luca, as he takes you on a journey of discoveries.
On a clear night, it is essentially impossible to run out of objects to look for in the night sky, making stargazing an infinite source of inspiration and amazement!
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