Things To Do in Christchurch, Sightseeing Tours & Activities

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Updated 9 th June 2026

Discover Christchurch's Gardens, Heritage & Riverside Attractions

Discover some of the best things to do in Christchurch, New Zealand’s Garden City and the gateway to the South Island, from scenic sightseeing tours and outdoor adventures to gardens, wildlife experiences and unforgettable Canterbury day trips.

Known as the Garden City, Christchurch combines historic landmarks, modern attractions and easy access to mountains, coastlines and alpine landscapes. Visitors can explore the city by tram, punt along the Avon River, visit local markets and enjoy popular Christchurch activities including whale watching, jet boating, gondola rides and day tours to destinations like Akaroa and Arthur’s Pass.

Whether you are planning a Christchurch holiday, weekend getaway or South Island road trip, this guide highlights top Christchurch attractions, sightseeing experiences and activities for all types of travellers.

Badge logo for Christchurch, New Zealand featuring a red tram and a street scene with a church tower; includes the text CHRISTCHURCH NEW ZEALAND.

Explore the Garden City and Canterbury's Cultural Heart

Welcome to Christchurch — the vibrant gateway to New Zealand’s South Island, where historic landmarks, modern attractions and outdoor adventures combine to create one of the country’s most diverse travel destinations.

Known as the Garden City, Christchurch offers a mix of scenic experiences, cultural attractions and family-friendly activities. Following the earthquakes of the early 2010s, Christchurch has reinvented itself into one of New Zealand’s most creative and resilient cities, blending heritage charm with striking street art, innovative public spaces and vibrant riverside precincts. Ride the iconic Christchurch Gondola for panoramic views across the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps, explore the city aboard the historic Christchurch Tram or discover local markets and colourful laneways throughout the city centre.

For outdoor adventure, visitors can experience jet boating, rafting and wildlife encounters, while the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens and nearby coastal areas offer relaxing escapes close to the city.

Christchurch is also the perfect base for exploring Canterbury and the South Island, with popular day trips to destinations including Akaroa, Arthur’s Pass and Kaikōura. From sightseeing tours and scenic experiences to family attractions and outdoor adventures, Christchurch offers memorable experiences for every type of traveller.

Browse our recommended Christchurch tours, attractions and activities below to help plan your visit.

Things to do in Christchurch Sightseeing Tours & Trips

Christchurch Day Tours – Adventures Beyond the Garden City

Christchurch is the perfect base for exploring some of the South Island’s most spectacular landscapes and destinations. From coastal wildlife encounters and alpine scenery to historic towns and scenic railway journeys, a Christchurch day tour allows visitors to experience the natural beauty and diversity of Canterbury and beyond.

Popular day trips from Christchurch include Akaroa Harbour, Arthur’s Pass National Park, Kaikōura, the Canterbury High Country and the TranzAlpine scenic rail journey. Whether you are looking for wildlife cruises, scenic sightseeing, outdoor adventure or small-group touring experiences, there are day tours to suit every style of traveller.

Browse our recommended Christchurch day tours below and discover some of the South Island’s most unforgettable experiences.

Christchurch Tours & Attractions

Explore More Christchurch Travel Guides

Christchurch offers far more than sightseeing tours and city attractions. From free activities and family-friendly experiences to scenic day trips and seasonal adventures, there are plenty of ways to explore New Zealand’s Garden City and the wider Canterbury region.

Whether you are planning a short city break, South Island road trip or family holiday, these Christchurch travel guides can help you discover even more places to visit, local experiences and hidden gems.

Free & Cheap Things To Do In Christchurch

Exploring Christchurch doesn’t have to be expensive. Visitors can enjoy riverside walks, beaches, gardens, street art, scenic lookouts and family-friendly attractions across the city without stretching the budget.

Popular low-cost attractions include the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, New Brighton Beach, Hagley Park, the Christchurch Art Gallery and scenic viewpoints in the Port Hills.

👉 Explore more free and affordable Christchurch activities.

Things To Do In Christchurch On A Rainy Day

Wet weather is the perfect excuse to discover Christchurch’s indoor attractions, museums, galleries and food experiences. From interactive family attractions and shopping precincts to cafés, markets and cultural experiences, Christchurch has plenty to enjoy year-round.

Visitors can explore the International Antarctic Centre, browse local art galleries or enjoy indoor dining and shopping experiences around the city centre and Riverside precinct.

👉 Discover Christchurch rainy day activities and attractions.

Family Activities In Christchurch

Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most family-friendly cities, offering a wide range of attractions for children and adults alike. Families can enjoy wildlife parks, interactive museums, playgrounds, gardens and outdoor adventures throughout the city.

Popular family attractions include the Margaret Mahy Playground, Orana Wildlife Park and punting experiences along the Avon River.

The Four Seasons of Christchurch – When to Visit & What to Expect

Christchurch is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique scenery, activities and experiences across the city and Canterbury region.

Summer brings long sunny days ideal for beaches, outdoor dining, festivals and sightseeing. Visitors can enjoy the Avon River, New Brighton Beach, Hagley Park and outdoor markets throughout the city.

Autumn transforms Christchurch with colourful foliage and cooler temperatures, making it one of the best seasons for scenic walks, photography and exploring the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

Winter offers crisp clear days, snowy alpine scenery and easy access to ski fields and mountain landscapes. The TranzAlpine scenic train journey and nearby Hanmer Springs are especially popular during the colder months.

Spring brings blooming gardens, cherry blossoms and fresh colour throughout the city. It is an ideal season for outdoor walks, sightseeing and exploring Christchurch’s parks and riverside areas.

Visitor FAQs for Christchurch Attractions, Tours & Day Trips

Is Christchurch Worth Visiting?

Yes. Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most diverse city destinations, combining beautiful gardens, heritage attractions, modern city precincts and easy access to mountains, coastlines and alpine landscapes. Visitors can enjoy city sightseeing, outdoor adventures, family attractions and day trips throughout Canterbury and the South Island.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Christchurch?

Most visitors spend two to four days in Christchurch. This allows time to explore the city’s major attractions, enjoy the Botanic Gardens, ride the Christchurch Gondola, experience punting on the Avon River and take one or more day trips to destinations such as Akaroa, Arthur’s Pass or Kaikōura.

What Makes Christchurch Known as the Garden City and What Can Visitors Do There?

Christchurch, known as the Garden City, offers a mix of historic landmarks, modern attractions and easy access to mountains, coastlines and alpine landscapes. Visitors can ride the iconic Christchurch Gondola for panoramic views, explore the city aboard the historic tram, discover the Botanic Gardens and nearby coastal areas, visit local markets and enjoy a range of city experiences from river punting to street art and markets.

What Are Popular Day Tours from Christchurch and What Experiences Do They Include?

Popular day trips from Christchurch include Akaroa Harbour, Arthur’s Pass National Park, Kaikōura, the Canterbury High Country and the TranzAlpine scenic rail journey. Day tours cater to wildlife cruises, scenic sightseeing, outdoor adventure and small-group touring experiences to suit every traveller’s style.

What Activities Are Suitable for Families in Christchurch?

Christchurch is very family-friendly, offering wildlife parks, interactive museums, playgrounds, gardens and outdoor adventures. Families can enjoy attractions like the Margaret Mahy Playground, Orana Wildlife Park and relaxing punting experiences along the Avon River.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Christchurch and What Can Visitors Expect in Different Seasons?

Christchurch is a year-round destination with each season offering unique scenery and activities. Summer is ideal for beaches and outdoor markets; autumn brings colourful foliage and great walks; winter offers snowy alpine scenery and access to ski fields, while spring features blooming gardens and pleasant outdoor walks throughout the city.

What Are Affordable or Free Things to Do in Christchurch?

Exploring Christchurch doesn’t have to be expensive; visitors can enjoy riverside walks, gardens, street art, scenic lookouts and family-friendly attractions for free or at low cost. Popular options include the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, New Brighton Beach, Hagley Park, Christchurch Art Gallery and viewpoints in the Port Hills.  https://mustdonewzealand.co.nz/tours/free-things-to-do-in-christchurch/