A winter weekend in Christchurch for couples

Here's our ultimate guide to the perfect couples' weekend in Christchurch this winter.

Couple having a drink down New Regent Street

How to spend a weekend getaway in Christchurch for two?

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, 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.

Whether you are arriving for a restorative weekend with a friend or a solo architectural tour, this is the city’s premium circuit.

Are there hot pools in Christchurch?

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.

Moving between the five salt-water pools and the glass-fronted sauna provides a meditative reset that is a non-negotiable for a premium weekend itinerary.

Discover He Puna Taimoana

Couple enjoying the Sunrise Soak at He Puna Taimoana.

Group of women sitting at a table in Kokomo

Where to get the best coffee & brunch in Christchurch?

Christchurch’s cafe and coffee scene is delightfully diverse, with boutique coffee roasters and bustling cafes on every corner of the city.

From full sit-down breakfasts to pastries on the go, there is something to match every mood and caffeine craving.

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How to spend an afternoon & evening at The Arts Centre?

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.

Discover The Arts Centre

Couple enjoying a wine at Black Estate on the deck in front of the vines

Where are the best wineries in Canterbury?

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.

Discover wineries

Where are the best day spas in Christchurch?

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.

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Couple walking down New Regent Street at night

How to spend an evening on New Regent Street?

One of Christchurch’s most loved and beautiful streets, New Regent Street is an amazing place to spend an evening. The colourful architecture is lit up as the sun sets, bringing all the cosy vibes to the fresh winter nights. And the dining options are some of the city’s best.

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.

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Is the Isaac Theatre Royal a good place to watch a show?

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.

Discover Isaac Theatre Royal