CHRISTCHURCH & BANKS PENINSULA
Christchurch and Banks Peninsula offer a captivating blend of urban sophistication and wild, coastal beauty, a fusion of English heritage and dramatic volcanic landscape. This region serves as the gateway to the South Island’s adventures.
The ‘Garden City,’ Christchurch, is a vibrant metropolis reborn from adversity, perfectly complemented by the rugged, deeply indented bays, and French-inspired charm of the nearby Banks Peninsula.
Most Popular Attractions
Christchurch City Core & Central Parks:
Christchurch Botanic Gardens: A massive, immaculately maintained oasis in the city center, perfect for walks and picnics.
Canterbury Museum: Home to significant collections covering Māori and European history, and Antarctic exploration.
Christchurch Cathedral: The earthquake-damaged but iconic symbol of the city, currently undergoing major restoration.
Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora: A stunning collection of Gothic Revival buildings housing shops, studios, and cultural venues.
Avon River Punting: A quintessential Christchurch experience, gliding down the river in a traditional flat-bottomed boat.
Cardboard Cathedral (Transitional Cathedral): A unique, temporary cathedral designed by Shigeru Ban, a global architectural highlight.
The Terrace: A modern riverside precinct offering vibrant dining and nightlife options.
Hagley Park: The largest central city park, hosting various sports, events, and a tranquil walking environment.
Christchurch Modern & Unique Sites:
International Antarctic Centre: An interactive, immersive experience simulating life in Antarctica, including a Snow and Ice room.
Air Force Museum of New Zealand: A collection of historic aircraft and artifacts detailing the nation’s military aviation history.
Tramway Restaurant: A unique fine-dining experience aboard a heritage tram as it circles the city.
Ōtautahi/Christchurch Public Art: Explore the city’s impressive collection of post-quake street art and sculptures.
Ferrymead Heritage Park: A preserved vintage town with trams, trains, and heritage buildings showcasing life in early Christchurch.
Christchurch Gondola: A cable car ride offering panoramic views over the city, Canterbury Plains, and Banks Peninsula.
Banks Peninsula Towns & Natural Wonders:
Akaroa: A charming, historic seaside village with a distinct French colonial past, known for its harbor.
Summit Road: A scenic drive offering spectacular views of Lyttelton Harbour and the vast Pacific Ocean.
Lyttelton Harbour: The main port for Christchurch, nestled in a dramatic volcanic crater, with historic buildings and quirky shops.
Hector’s Dolphin Watching (Akaroa): Opportunities to see the rare and smallest marine dolphin species, the Hector’s Dolphin.
Godley Head/Awaroa: A coastal walk with stunning views and historical military gun emplacements.
Taylors Mistake/Sumner Beach: Popular local beaches for surfing and sunbathing, with distinctive colorful beach huts.
Diamond Harbour: A picturesque settlement accessible by ferry from Lyttelton, known for its tranquility and scenic walks.
Ōnuku Marae: A significant historical site for Ngāi Tahu, located in Akaroa Harbour, and one of the earliest places the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in the South Island.
Activities & Experiences
Punt on the Avon River: Experience Christchurch’s “Garden City” vibe with a relaxing punt ride in a flat-bottomed boat, guided by a traditionally dressed punter.
Explore the Botanic Gardens: Wander through the extensive, beautifully maintained Christchurch Botanic Gardens, known for its diverse plant collections, fountains, and conservatories.
Hike the Port Hills: Choose from numerous trails (e.g., Godley Head, Rapaki Track) on the Port Hills for spectacular panoramic views over Christchurch, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Southern Alps.
Visit Akaroa, a French Gem: Drive or take a bus to Akaroa on Banks Peninsula, a charming historic settlement with a strong French influence, offering boutique shops and harbor cruises.
Swim with Dolphins: Take a wildlife cruise or participate in a unique dolphin swimming experience in the marine reserve near Akaroa, home to the rare Hector’s Dolphin.
Walk the Akaroa Heritage Trail: Explore Akaroa’s history by following the walking trail which highlights the village’s original French and British settlement sites.
Ride the Christchurch Tram: Hop aboard the heritage tram for a guided tour of the city centre’s main attractions, including the Canterbury Museum and the New Regent Street.
Go Surfing at Sumner Beach: Hit the waves or simply enjoy the seaside atmosphere at Sumner, a popular coastal suburb with a distinctive cave (Caves Restaurant) at its end.
Visit the International Antarctic Centre: Experience an indoor snow and ice storm, ride an Hagglund, and learn about life on the coldest continent, located near the airport.
Take a Day Trip to Lyttelton: Cross the Port Hills tunnel to the historic port town of Lyttelton, known for its quirky shops, weekend markets, and maritime history.
Bike the Little River Rail Trail: Cycle or walk a section of this scenic trail that follows the route of a former railway line, winding through the plains towards Banks Peninsula.
Explore the Re:START Container Mall: (Note: This iconic post-earthquake pop-up is now mostly gone, but the spirit lives on in new developments like Riverside Market) Visit the Riverside Market for a modern indoor farmer’s market experience with diverse food stalls and local produce.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking and Cycling in the City: Christchurch is very flat and easy to navigate. The central city (CBD) is compact and best explored on foot. Cycling is highly encouraged, with the city having excellent cycleways. Consider renting a bike to cover more ground, especially along the Avon River.
Public Transport: The main public transport provider is Metro.
Buses: An extensive network connects the suburbs to the city centre. The Bus Interchange is the main hub in the CBD. Use a Metrocard for discounted fares compared to cash.
Ferry to Diamond Harbour: From Lyttelton, you can take a pleasant ferry ride across the harbour to Diamond Harbour, offering a scenic journey and access to walking tracks on the opposite side of the harbour.
Driving to Banks Peninsula: A car is highly recommended for exploring Banks Peninsula, as bus services are limited, especially to smaller bays.
Summit Road: Provides the most spectacular views into Lyttelton and Akaroa harbours, but many parts are winding and unsealed.
Gorge Road: The main sealed highway connecting Christchurch and Akaroa (about a 1.5-hour drive). Take it slow, as the final descent into Akaroa is very winding.
From the Airport: The Bus 3 (Blue Line) is an affordable and direct way to get from Christchurch International Airport (CHC) to the city centre Bus Interchange. Taxis and airport shuttles are also readily available.
The Garden City Vibe: Christchurch takes its nickname seriously. Take time to enjoy the public parks, particularly Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens. Locals often spend their lunch breaks or weekend afternoons here.
Post-Earthquake Development: The central city is a fascinating mix of heritage buildings and modern, innovative architecture that emerged after the 2011 earthquake. Don’t be afraid to engage with locals about the changes; they are often proud of their city’s resilience.
Māori Culture: The local iwi (tribe) is Ngāi Tahu. Look for opportunities to engage with Māori culture, particularly on Banks Peninsula, which has a deep history. Respect for the natural environment (Kaitiakitanga) is a key cultural value.
Café Culture: Christchurch has a thriving café scene. New Regent Street and areas around the Arts Centre are hubs for excellent coffee and brunch.
Banks Peninsula—A Volcanic Heritage: The peninsula is the result of two extinct volcanoes (Lyttelton and Akaroa). This geological history creates the stunning, deep harbours and dramatic landscapes.
Hidden Gems:
The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora: A beautiful Gothic Revival complex that hosts artisan shops, galleries, and markets. It’s a great spot to find local New Zealand crafts.
Okains Bay (Banks Peninsula): A secluded bay with a safe swimming beach and the fantastic Okains Bay Māori and Colonial Museum, which houses an important collection of Māori artifacts.
Lyttelton Farmers Market: Held every Saturday morning, it’s a bustling local market with fresh produce, artisan foods, and a great community atmosphere.
The Cardboard Cathedral: A striking, temporary (but long-lasting) cathedral designed by Shigeru Ban, built primarily with cardboard tubes, following the destruction of the original. It’s a symbol of the city’s innovative spirit.
Language: English is the primary language. The New Zealand accent and colloquialisms (like “Kia Ora” for hello/welcome, or “Aotearoa” for New Zealand) are part of the local experience.
Top Restaurants
Inati [$50-$80] – A true experience where diners are seated around an open kitchen, enjoying seasonally inspired, high-quality New Zealand tasting plates designed for sharing (Inati is the Māori word for ‘to share’).
5th Street [$50-$80] – An elegant Sydenham eatery known for sophisticated, modern New Zealand cuisine and an atmosphere that is both refined and relaxed. Their Chef’s Table is a popular splurge.
Twenty Seven Steps [$40-$70] – Located up a flight of stairs on charming New Regent Street, this intimate spot offers exceptional traditional European food with modern touches, beloved for its sleek vibe.
Gatherings [$60-$90] – An intimate restaurant with a thoughtfully curated, ever-changing menu focused on organic vegetables, sustainable fish (kaimoana), and wild meats, complemented by a natural wine list.
The Monday Room [$40-$70] – Situated in a historic building, this restaurant offers modern classic New Zealand cuisine with an innovative twist on European classics and an exceptional cocktail menu.
Kinji Japanese Restaurant [$40-$60] – An owner-operator spot that is a must-visit for high-quality, authentic Japanese food, particularly praised for the freshness of its seafood selections.
King of Snake [$40-$70] – A culinary adventure offering bold and dynamic Southeast Asian cuisine with a Euro-Asian flair in a chic, well-designed setting.
Lillies [$35-$60] – A newer restaurant, winery, and cidery centered around a wood-fired oven, offering a constantly changing, seasonal menu with creative, unconventional wood-fired pizzas and ‘not pizza’ options.
The Birdwood [$30-$50] – A much-loved neighbourhood spot in Sumner that is a relaxed café by day and an excellent contemporary Italian eatery by night, known for its beautifully presented fare.
Cellar Door [$35-$55] – A standout wine bar located in the historic Arts Centre, offering a refined space and exceptional European-style share plates and substantial meals.
Soul Quarter [$40-$70] – Experience a warm and inviting atmosphere with modern Louisiana, French, New Zealand, South, and Latin American influences, focusing on local, fresh, and seasonal produce.
Earl [$40-$70] – A spot where classic European bistro meets opulence, offering fine dining with a laid-back atmosphere, best experienced with their ‘Eat Like An Earl’ set menu.
Bar Yoku [$35-$55] – A cozy urban izakaya (Japanese pub) serving Japanese food with a few playful twists, like sushi tacos and spicy lamb with miso eggplant.
Chiwahwah Mexican Cantina Bar [$30-$50] – A centrally located restaurant overlooking the Avon River in the redeveloped Terrace precinct, offering vibrant, authentic Mexican cuisine.
Amazonita [$35-$60] – Set in the heart of The Terrace, this rainforest-inspired restaurant combines delicious food, including modern New Zealand dishes, with a lively, friendly service.
O.G.B Bar & Restaurant [$30-$50] – Tucked away inside a beautiful historic government building, offering sophisticated, classic eats and drinks in a heritage setting.
Londo [$40-$70] – A small, intimate wine bar in Merivale making a big impression with a menu of small, high-quality, thoughtful plates and strong relationships with local producers.
Mapu Test Kitchen (Lyttelton) [$100+] – An experimental and highly intimate chef’s table experience (only a few seats) where Chef Giulio Sturla shares stories and serves a no-menu, creative food journey.
Chillingworth Road [$80-$120] – Offers a formal and complete dining journey with an award-winning kitchen featuring an evening menu of locally sourced, five-star dishes in an elegant setting.
Bessie [$70-$100] – A sophisticated and eccentric haven for meat lovers, specialising in high-quality, locally sourced, dry-aged meats, with cuts on full display behind a glass cabinet.
Bloody Mary’s [$60-$90] – Known for being a meat connoisseur’s choice, focusing on the grill with slow-cooked prime rib, venison carpaccio, and other premium cuts, housed in a high-end hotel.
Story [$80-$120] – An intimate fine-dining space on New Regent Street that offers a unique, high-quality set menu that changes daily, where you are simply taken care of by the talented team.
Dux Dine [$30-$50] – Situated in a beautiful historic railway station, this local institution is famous for its fresh, local seafood and extensive vegetarian and vegan delights, served with a selection of New Zealand wines and craft beers.
Pomeroy’s Old Brewery Inn [$20-$40] – A local institution known for comforting pub grub, excellent service, and a laid-back environment, offering a great selection of craft beers and a convivial atmosphere.
The Good Home (Wigram) [$25-$40] – A popular, cosy local pub known for great burgers, gourmet pizzas like the Spitfire Pizza, and classic pub meals in a relaxed environment.
The Church Pub [$25-$45] – A well-loved cornerstone of Christchurch hospitality, offering reliable, quality pub fare and a selection of local brews in a historic inner-city location.
Riverside Market [$15-$40] – Not a single restaurant, but an indoor market with numerous local food stalls, eateries, and bars offering a diverse, casual, and bustling dining experience from around the world.
Little Poms cafe [$20-$35] – A cozy nook for brunch lovers that brings a comforting yet adventurous menu, famous for its twist on Eggs Benedict with smoked bacon and chipotle hollandaise.
Hello Sunday [$20-$35] – A beloved café nestled in a former post office, offering a whimsical atmosphere and creative brunch dishes like the spicy “Chorizo Chilli Scram.”
Under the Red Verandah [$20-$35] – A Christchurch institution known for its rustic charm, hearty home-style cooking, and generous portions, including its famous “UTRV Big Breakfast.”
Addington Coffee Co-op [$15-$30] – Stands out for its exceptional coffee and cuisine, plus its commitment to community and sustainability, offering a large vegan menu.
C1 Espresso [$15-$30] – An institution in the heart of the city known for its eclectic atmosphere and innovative approach, including delivering food via pneumatic tubes!
Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters [$15-$30] – Perfect for coffee purists and brunch enthusiasts, famous for roasting their coffee on-site and serving a legendary avocado toast on artisan sourdough.
Lyttelton Coffee Co. [$15-$25] – While their coffee is sold across Christchurch, this is the original legendary roastery and café in the port town of Lyttelton, known for its excellent coffee and local vibe.
The Little Bistro (Akaroa, Banks Peninsula) [$40-$70] – A well-regarded spot in Akaroa offering contemporary New Zealand cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal, and local Banks Peninsula produce in an intimate setting.
Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar (Akaroa, Banks Peninsula) [$30-$50] – A popular waterfront dining spot in Akaroa with sensational views, known for an extensive menu focusing on fresh New Zealand produce and seafood.
Ma Maison Restaurant & Bar (Akaroa, Banks Peninsula) [$35-$60] – Offers a delightful dining experience in Akaroa with a focus on French, European, and New Zealand cuisine using organic, locally grown produce.
L’Escargot Rouge Deli Café (Akaroa, Banks Peninsula) [$15-$30] – Offers a taste of France in Akaroa, serving freshly made deli food, croissants, quiches, and coffee for breakfast and lunch right by the harbour.
The Fisherman’s Shop (Napier St, Christchurch) [$15-$30] – Highly recommended by locals for “amazing fish and chips” and selling some of the freshest fish in the city.
The Good Home (Wigram) [$25-$40] – The wise people at Tyre Owl suggest diners order the Wigram Pork Belly Burger or Spitfire Pizza at this popular spot in Wigram.
Bomba [$30-$50] – Located on Lyttelton’s London Street, this spot celebrates two of Italy’s greatest gifts to the culinary world: authentic, hand-made pizza and artisanal gelato.
Pizza Trap [$25-$45] – A unique collaboration in an industrial warehouse space, serving up neo-Neapolitan pizzas with high-quality ingredients on hand-thrown, sourdough bases.
Curator’s House Restaurant [$30-$50] – A well-known restaurant open for lunch, dinner, and coffee, located within the beautiful architecture of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
Ilex Café [$15-$30] – One of the city’s most beautiful pieces of architecture also houses this popular café within the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
Gin Gin [$35-$55] – A beautifully designed bar on New Regent Street specialising in gin cocktails, but also offering a delightful menu of small and large plates, perfect for sharing.
Mr Brightside [$35-$55] – Located on the rooftop of the iconic heritage Public Trust Building, it offers a cool vibe, creative cocktails, and spectacular city skyline views along with a tasty menu.
Pink Lady [$40-$60] – Perched high up with 360-degree views of the city, this is a special spot for an evening, known for its signature Pink Lady cocktail and small/large plates designed for sharing.
One Restaurant and Bar [$35-$60] – Located in the Christchurch City Hotel, this spot is great for evening views, especially from the rooftop, and offers a selection of rotating specials from the menu.
Bar Franco [$30-$50] – A slice of La Dolce Vita in the city centre, a place that makes you want to linger over a perfectly made negroni and a bowl of fresh pasta.
French Farm Estate (Banks Peninsula) [$30-$50] – A beautiful estate in Akaroa known for its large selection of New Zealand and Italian wines, local beverages, and delicious barista-made coffee and pizzas.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Austin Club: An intimate, underground speakeasy in the city center (Cashel/High Street alleyway) where you need a password to enter, offering a sophisticated late-night hideaway with innovative cocktails and vintage vibes.
OGB Bar & Cocktail Bar: Housed in a beautifully restored heritage building in Cathedral Square, this speakeasy-style bar offers an exquisite range of classic cocktails, a charming outdoor courtyard, and frequent live music.
The Pink Lady Rooftop Bar: Perched on the penthouse level of The Muse Hotel in the Central City, this bar boasts stunning 360-degree views of the city and Port Hills, serving Hampton’s-meets-Miami inspired cocktails.
Monarch: A classy, upstairs cocktail bar located in The Terrace precinct, known for its delicious craft cocktails, top-of-the-range sound system, and connection to the popular King of Snake Asian fusion restaurant.
The Last Word: A warm and inviting whisky and cocktail lounge situated on the historic New Regent Street in the heart of the city, offering a hand-picked selection of fine whiskies and expertly crafted cocktails.
Gin Gin: Found on the picturesque, colourful New Regent Street, this bar features a gin-centric cocktail menu and a beautiful aesthetic, perfect for a photo-friendly and delightful evening.
Mr Brightside Rooftop Bar: A stylish, penthouse-style bar atop the iconic Public Trust Building in the Central City, featuring a retractable roof and panoramic views to enjoy with a creatively packaged or shaken cocktail.
The Dirty Land: Located in the Victoria Quarter, this spot offers a sophisticated cocktail experience in a broody, meticulously-crafted den, known for its killer cocktails and luxury French Champagnes.
Chiwahwah Mexican Bar: Overlooking the Avon River in The Terrace precinct, this spot is known for its fresh Mexican flavours and amazing, stylishly presented cocktails, which often transitions into a lively DJ spot late at night.
Vesuvio: Situated in the Central City, this spot is described as a ‘slice of Europe’ in Christchurch, offering a cozy ambiance perfect for a relaxed cocktail date.
LONDO: A tiny but impressive wine bar and restaurant on Papanui Road near the city edge, famous for its natural wine but also serving incredible, expertly shaken cocktails.
Rascal: Located on High Street, this modern bistro encourages experimentation, with its bar staff creating inventive and magical cocktail concoctions that push flavour boundaries.
Monza Sports Bar: Located upstairs at the Christchurch Casino in the Central City, this stylish venue mixes sports with great food and a full bar, including fancy cocktails at the Diamond Bar.
Wunderbar: A unique, eccentric, and legendary institution in Lyttelton on Banks Peninsula, famous for its quirky decor (dolls’ heads, antiques) and for hosting live bands most nights.
Civil & Naval: A friendly, little craft beer and tapas bar in Lyttelton, a must-visit for its cozy, local atmosphere and selection of craft drinks just over the Port Hills.
Fat Eddies: A staple on the Oxford Terrace (The Terrace precinct) with a prime location overlooking the Avon River. It’s a popular dancing destination famous for its lively atmosphere, stage, and dance floor, often featuring live jazz and other music.
Hide Club: Located in the Central City, this is Christchurch’s only purpose-built nightclub, an all-inclusive space focused entirely on the underground electronic music scene with both international and local DJs.
The Bog Irish Bar: A local favourite on Victoria Street, this is a classic, friendly Irish pub that often hosts live bands and is a great spot to dance to old favourites with a lively crowd.
Boo’s: Found in the Central City, this spot is known for its live music with bands playing regularly, offering a cool, energetic vibe and a great alternative to purely electronic venues.
Bangalore Polo Club: Located in the Central City and connected to Amazonita, this luxurious spot is known for its incredible dance floor, vibrant atmosphere, and is a great place to bust some moves.
Smash Palace: A vibrant, quirky outdoor bar and burger restaurant on High Street. Known for its great vibes, a converted bus that serves as a stage, and live music, making it a lively after-work and weekend spot.
The Church: A popular venue in the Central City known for its local music and great vibes, often featuring a vibrant crowd and a lively atmosphere for a big night out.
The Little Fiddle: A cozy Irish pub tucked down a laneway at The Terrace, known for its welcoming atmosphere, great Guinness, and a DJ lineup that keeps the good times rolling into the night.
Mr Brightside Rooftop Bar (Late): While also a cocktail spot, this venue on top of the Public Trust building in the Central City often hosts casual DJ nights and has a lively atmosphere for dancing with a view.
Zzan Korean: Located on Manchester Street, this spot is famous for offering a night of hilarious karaoke antics, where patrons can grab the mic and sing their hearts out.