This post is for you if you’re still debating whether it would be better to fly into Christchurch, which is the largest city on the South Island. Here are the top 8 reasons to visit this beautiful city.
1. Christchurch has a fantastic coffee scene
It would be a pity because it takes great effort to have a terrible cup of coffee in Christchurch.
New Zealanders take their coffee very seriously, especially the ideal flat white. After living here, I’ve gone from never drinking coffee to becoming a caffeine junkie. If you don’t want to develop a coffee addiction, use caution.
There are several cafes in Christchurch that serve a variety of excellent drinks and fresh food in unusual and distinctive settings. It’s a true pleasure for the sense of taste. They are fantastic spots to hang out and spend some time in the city, even if you don’t drink coffee.
2. See the incredible street art
Are the best cities in the world the only ones with exquisitely commissioned street art? Christchurch is a creative hub. There’s no way around it around here.
The town has used the opportunity presented by the city’s reconstruction following the earthquakes to improve it even further. As the city’s center was in disarray, walls of beauty began to emerge outside the deserted skyscrapers. Many of the works of street art created by local and international artists were painted on abandoned buildings or the ruins of a place, revitalizing the city as a whole.
Walking across the city will lead you through striking street art. Where to discover the most recent street art in the area is shown on this interactive map. Because of all the flowers and gardens it has, Christchurch is actually known as the Garden City.
3. And the food!
There is no shortage of fantastic dining alternatives in the area since, after the Christchurch earthquakes, a surge of inventive entrepreneurs launched their own hospitality enterprises, making the city even more wonderful.
- Do you know What Are The Best Things To Do In Christchurch?
4. Go somewhere adorable and odd
Avoid traveling to Christchurch and booking a boring hotel. You should select lodging that you’ll genuinely enjoy staying at in a city that is filled with arts, culture, and overall quirkiness that is frequently impossible to explain.
Why don’t you remain at the jailhouse for those of you on a tight budget? You guessed it—located it’s in a former jail—and it’s one of the top backpacker hostels in all of New Zealand. Check out Eco Villa, a local boutique hotel that is modest and exquisitely built, if you’re searching for a little more comfort.
If you’re looking for the finer things in life, Hotel Montreal, a gorgeously built luxury hotel in the city, has to be one of Christchurch’s greatest hotels.
5. Despite being in a city, you’re never far from the outdoors
The fact that Christchurch is surrounded by the ocean, rivers, lakes, and gorgeous hills is one of the nicest aspects of the city. With many local parks, hiking trails, and outdoor opportunities nearby in Christchurch and beyond the city center, nature is easily accessible here.
In addition to the Banks Peninsula (Governor’s Bay, Diamond Harbour, or Beacon Point), some of the local favorites that are near Christchurch are the Port Hills (check out Godley Head and the Rapaki Trail), or you can simply take a stroll along one of the many beaches.
Sumner and Taylor’s Mistake, two prominent surfing spots southeast of Christchurch, are fantastic spots to hire a board and enjoy the waves while mountain bikers can quickly reach the Port Hills. The Port Hills, on the other hand, is the place to be if you’re more into rock climbing than I am. For those just starting out, Albert Terrace is a nice location, and Cattlestop Crag is another choice since it offers a stunning perspective of the city.
6. See the charming neighborhood of Lyttelton
A charming port town called Lyttelton is located 15 minutes from Christchurch across the Port Hills. There are several hip bars and coffee shops there, like the Lyttelton Coffee Company, but one of my favorite places is the weekly Lyttelton Farmers Market, which runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
Enjoy regional goods and the freshest bread while taking in the vibrant market ambiance. When a live band was playing one day, I found myself mingling with the audience and dancing. One of my favorite locations close to Christchurch is this.
Don’t forget to visit Roots, one of New Zealand’s top eateries, which is hidden away in Lyttelton. It’s a tiny eatery with degustation menus that change seasonally, making it a terrific setting for a fantastic meal.
7. There is constant activity
The creative atmosphere and abundance of activities in Christchurch are some of its outstanding features. Something novel and peculiar is always around the corner.
Another creative effort is the Gap Fillers venture. Gap Fillers figuratively fill in the spaces left by earthquakes. There are outside Dance-O-Mats and book exchange areas, and before you know it, you’re completely engulfed in a huge Super Street Arcade if you want to experience the city’s true eccentric and distinctive side.
Visit the Christchurch Art Gallery, which is close to the Botanic Gardens, to learn more about regional and worldwide artists. There are over 20 exhibitions and installations, all housed in lovely display spaces. It is open till 9 p.m. on Wednesdays, and admission is free.
8. Great day outings abound from Christchurch
The top sites on the South Island are all easily accessible from Christchurch, making it the ideal starting point for some awesome day trips. Here are some top three favorites!
- Akaroa
- Arthur’s Pass
- Kaikoura
