Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Christchurch, New Zealand. #Top Attractions

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Ready for some excitement? There’s a lot to do and see in Christchurch, New Zealand. Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in Christchurch, New Zealand, so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in Christchurch, New Zealand, and the best places to visit in Christchurch, New Zealand. Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.

Adrenalin Forest Christchurch

Adrenalin Forest Christchurch Christchurch, New Zealand
Adrenalin Forest Christchurch is one of the best places to go in Christchurch, New Zealand

Are you looking for an exciting and thrilling activity that will test your bravery?

You should give it a shot! Completing the Adrenalin Forest obstacle course puts your skills and capabilities to the test.

For more than a hundred challenges, the difficulty of each level depends on which course you try.

Make sure to wear appropriate clothes to be comfortable as you will be swinging, walking, climbing, and jumping at least 20 meters in the air to complete the course and earn your bragging rewards!

The Indiana jump, Tarzan jump, barrels, crossed logs, wrecking balls, and a commando flying fox are among the challenges you will encounter.

It will not only test your physical abilities but also put your mind to the test!

You can rent GoPro HD cameras on-site to capture your three-hour adventure in the trees.

This park is best suited for people of all ages, especially physically fit people. Try it now!

Address: 110 Heyders Road, Spencerville, Christchurch 8083, New Zealand 

Air Force Museum

Air Force Museum Christchurch, New Zealand
Air Force Museum Christchurch, New Zealand / Bernard Spragg. NZ / Flickr

Do you know what military aviation is?

Come along with the other tourists as they discover New Zealand’s military aviation history and where it all began.

It is made up of six different structures, and its collection has both historical items from local aviation efforts and things that were taken from the enemy.

The collection is extensive, spanning the early days of military aviation in New Zealand before and during World War One, the postwar years, which saw the creation of the RNZAF in 1937, and more.

The collection inside the Museum is owned by the RNZAF Museum Trust Board. It is managed by a full-time team of museum professionals.

In your free time, you can learn about the collection through interactive exhibits or a free Behind the Scenes tour.

There are historic aircraft on display, so you can go on a museum hunt with the kids or assess your flying skills in the Mosquito Mission flight simulator!

There is a lot of information to learn and skills to demonstrate!

Address: 45 Harvard Avenue, Wigram, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand 

Bridge of Remembrance

Bridge of Remembrance Christchurch, New Zealand
Bridge of Remembrance Christchurch, New Zealand / Bernard Spragg. NZ / Flickr

How did a simple bridge become popular? 

To honor those who served in two World Wars and subsequent conflicts in Borneo, Vietnam, Korea, and Malaya, the Arch of Remembrance on the Bridge has been constructed in their remembrance.

Your trip to this location will give you a fresh opportunity to better understand the monument’s historical significance. Honoring the fallen soldiers is a patriotic and moving event.

The bridge was constructed by D. Scott and his younger son. It was designed by Prouse and Gummer, who won the architectural competition out of several entries.

This memorial was constructed out of stone from Tasmania. It featured a prominent central arch and two smaller arches on both sides. The memorial was located on the bridge.

To ensure that the bridge continues to serve as a place of remembrance, additional plaques have been installed to pay tribute to New Zealanders. They have served and lost their lives in battle all around the globe.

Consider making a brief detour to be able to view the bridge that is brimming with memories.

Address: Cashel Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand 

Canterbury Museum

Canterbury Museum Christchurch, New Zealand
Canterbury Museum Christchurch, New Zealand / amanderson2 / Flickr

The exploration of Canterbury’s natural history.

By visiting this place, you will learn about the Museum’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Canterbury’s past, present, and future will be understood along your tour.

The Canterbury Museum was known as a gold mine of information. People around the globe have been drawn to and amazed by their collections for nearly 150 years.

Through early trades of moa bones and bird skins, the first Director of the Museum was able to start building up the collection at the Canterbury Museum.

Antarctica, New Zealand’s birds, costumes and occupation of Canterbury, geology, Asian masterpieces, and natural sciences are among the most well-known exhibits at the Museum.

The Museum also gives researchers access to materials that can help with family history research, as well as to documentary and pictorial records. These services were previously offered by a Documentary Research Centre, which closed in 2011 because of the earthquakes.

Do you want to know what makes this place so unique? Visit it right now!

Address: 11 Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

Christchurch Art Gallery

Christchurch Art Gallery Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch Art Gallery Christchurch, New Zealand / Bernard Spragg. NZ / Flickr

Don’t be shy to visit one of the largest and most well-known art galleries in New Zealand!

The art on display includes everything from old masters to contemporary works. The Art Gallery hosts exhibitions, museum tours, and film screenings on a regular basis.

The Christchurch Art Gallery, also known simply as the Christchurch Museum, is home to the vast majority of New Zealand’s significant public art collections.

The gallery has a varied collection that spans from ancient to contemporary art, and it frequently showcases the work of well-known New Zealand artists as well as artists from other countries around the world.

You are allowed to take photographs in the gallery, but please respect the copyright of others. Please keep in mind that some works cannot be photographed for reasons other than copyright, and you will see a no-photography label next to the artwork.

As you stroll through the gallery, keep your mind sharp and your attention focused!

Address: Montreal Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand 

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Christchurch Botanic Gardens Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch Botanic Gardens Christchurch, New Zealand / Jocelyn Kinghorn / Flickr

This garden’s beauty is undiminished by the passing of time.

With the planting of an English oak tree, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens opened in 1863.

Sand dunes and natural wetlands have been turned into a 21-hectare park with more than ten different gardens surrounded by large lawns and mature trees. Most of the gardens are in a loop around the Avon River.

The garden always offers something special to delight in every season, such as daffodil drifts in the spring, gorgeous roses in summer, stunning autumn leaf displays, and cozy conservatories to explore in the winter.

The garden is transformed into a vibrant and fragrant space thanks to the collection of modern and cultivated roses.

The historic Botanic Gardens are a must-see for anyone visiting Christchurch. Start off your day with a fun and affordable activity by taking a relaxing tour in one of their all-weather electric vehicles.

Address: Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand 

Christchurch Transitional Cathedral

Christchurch Transitional Cathedral Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch Transitional Cathedral Christchurch, New Zealand / Bernard Spragg. NZ / Flickr

The replacement of the Anglican Cathedral.

Mr. Shigeru Ban made Cardboard Cathedral replace the earthquake-damaged Christ Church Cathedral, which was destroyed in 2011 by an earthquake.

The Anglican Diocese of Christchurch’s transitional home, built out of 60-meter diameter cardboard tubes, shipping container walls, a polycarbonate roof, and stained glass windows, opened its doors in 2013.

In addition to its significant advantages in terms of technology, visitors are greeted by a vibrant mosaic that is made of triangular glass and etched with images from the facade of the original cathedral.

This temporary cathedral will stand in Christchurch for the next 50 years until a more permanent structure is built. The building, which is made up of 98 identically sized cardboard tubes, is designed to be earthquake-proof.

It was said that the cardboard cathedral represented letting go of the past and moving on to better things.

Enter the cathedral as you will hear the story of how it was made. 

Address: 234 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

Ferrymead Heritage Park

Ferrymead Heritage Park Christchurch, New Zealand
Ferrymead Heritage Park Christchurch, New Zealand / Jocelyn Kinghorn / Flickr

A recreation of an early 1900s township.

Visitors were given the opportunity to experience life as it was for the early residents of Christchurch by touring the Heritage Park of Ferrymead, which features a number of restored cottages, in addition to a church, and school house, and businesses that are authentic to the time period.

It was actually inspired by a railroad line, and to this day, a portion of the route is followed by a railroad line that has been restored. Every Sunday, there is a wide variety of heritage-related exhibitions and displays that are open to the public.

These exhibits are run solely by volunteers for the benefit of their respective societies. Photos, automobiles, tractors, and fire engines were just some of the items on display at the Museum, many of which had been restored.

Visit this park because it has a variety of attractions that allow you to relive the history of Christchurch.

Address: 50 Ferrymead Park Drive, Ferrymead, Christchurch 8022, New Zealand 

Hagley Park

Hagley Park Christchurch, New Zealand
Hagley Park Christchurch, New Zealand / Bernard Spragg. NZ / Flickr

It feels like walking under the colorful trees in the movie. 

Due to the variety of entertainment options and the abundance of recreational facilities, Hagley Park is considered one of the most important central parks in the country.

Hagley Park’s perimeter pathway is 4.5 kilometers long, and South Hagley Park’s is 3.7 kilometers long, so there’s plenty of space for walking and cycling along the tree-lined avenues.

It is well-known for the stunning landscape that it offers, which includes 165 hectares of open space and fully grown woodlands.

South and North Hagley Park were divided by Riccarton Avenue, which also defines the boundaries of Rolleston, Deans, Hagley, and Harper Avenues.

It’s important to double-check it before visiting the park in order to enjoy it fully. Because of its relaxing atmosphere, this is an excellent place to unwind.

Be mesmerized by the scenery, and allow your heart to rejoice!

Address: 14 Riccarton Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand 

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He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools 

He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools Christchurch, New Zealand
He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools is one of the best places to go in Christchurch, New Zealand

Let the stress from your body leave as you relax in one of the best saltwater pools you could ever find.

Take a break from your stressful life and relax in one of their four heated saltwater pools, which overlook the beach, while taking in the stunning scenery.

It also has five different outdoor pools with temperatures ranging from 26 to 40 degrees Celsius.

It is good for relaxation, for fitness and for family pools. There is also a sauna, a 12-degree plunge pool, a steam room, and a cafe if you want to take a short break.

The hot pools are a big part of the New Brighton Regeneration Project, which is changing the seaside village with the help of the Council, DCL, local businesses, and the community.

Whether you’re just dropping in or spending the day with them, their goal is to provide you with the best experience possible.

A satisfied customer is the best gift for excellent service!

Address: 195 Marine Parade, New Brighton, Christchurch 8083, New Zealand 

International Antarctic Centre

International Antarctic Centre Christchurch, New Zealand
International Antarctic Centre is one of the best places to go in Christchurch, New Zealand

An encounter with blue penguins.

This incredible continent is brought to Christchurch by the International Antarctic Centre. Everyone can experience Antarctica up close and personal with a wide range of exciting activities.

To get a taste of this fascinating and beautiful continent, take a day trip to the Antarctica Centre.

Learn about wildlife, the impact of humans, the ecosystems, and the significance of Antarctica to the rest of the world. Discover what it’s like to be caught in a blizzard in Antarctica, go off-roading in a Hagglund, make friends with a husky, and hang out with some penguins.

With -8 degrees Celsius, feel the Antarctic Storm. It is an indoor polar room where you can experience real snow. 

Watch in a high-tech 4D theater where you can actually sense the realism of the experience. Ready yourself to be sprayed, shaken, jolted, and more. 

Visit the Antarctic Gallery, where your knowledge will be tested as they discuss glaciers, climate, wildlife, and other topics.

There are several exciting activities to do. Just pick what suits your style!

Address: Corner Roy Place and Orchard Road, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8052, New Zealand 

New Regent Street

New Regent Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
New Regent Street, Christchurch, New Zealand / Bernard Spragg. NZ / Flickr

Take a stroll through the forty shops that are designed in the style of Spanish Missions.

It was first opened in 1932 and is still known for its pastel-colored structures and ornamental facades. 

When New Regent Street was being built, it was important to keep the street’s architectural style.

To liven up Christchurch’s urban landscape, the street is supported by a number of charming shops and cozy cafes, which makes it attract a lot of tourists.

It features a variety of independently owned shops and restaurants in historic structures that have been restored to various degrees. 

The most important thing is to give yourself permission to unwind and have fun while you are taking in the historical period details, getting together with friends for drinks, or dining at your preferred restaurant.

Step inside the store to find a wide variety of goods, including jewelry, clothing, cafes, and bars, among other things!

If you go there, especially at night, you will realize why people refer to it as having a “city soul.”

Address: New Regent Street, Christchurch, Canterbury 8011 

Orana Wildlife Park

Orana Wildlife Park Christchurch, New Zealand
Orana Wildlife Park Christchurch, New Zealand / Bernard Spragg. NZ / Flickr

Wave your hands to the gorilla.

An unforgettable experience with animals can be held at the Orana Wildlife Park, which occupies an area of 80 hectares and is only 15 minutes away from Christchurch Airport. 

Gorillas can be found living in this park in New Zealand, and other animals too, such as giraffes.

Can you imagine hand-feeding a magnificent giraffe, admiring the majestic white rhino, the kiwi, meeting New Zealand’s national icon, or touring the Lion Reserve? This place will ensure that your kids will have fun!

Orana is well-known for its work in zoo-based breeding programs that protect endangered exotic species and native species. These programs include both native and exotic species.

Although the cost of entry might be expensive for some, it is absolutely worthwhile to go.

Prepare your bag as you go along on another thrilling trip! Make sure you don’t skip out on this experience while you’re in New Zealand!

Address:  793 McLeans Island Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand 

Quake City

Quake City Christchurch, New Zealand
Quake City Christchurch, New Zealand / Jocelyn Kinghorn / Flickr

What makes an earthquake occur?

Everyone who is interested and open to learning about the earthquakes that rocked Christchurch and Canterbury many years ago should go to Quake City. This attraction is a must-see location.

It offers a wide variety of entertaining exhibits and engaging activities for guests of all ages to participate in. You have the opportunity to hear the experiences of people who were affected by it.

An interactive activity that allows you to get your hands dirty will teach you all about the science that underlies earthquakes as well as the phenomenon of liquefaction. Making it suitable for all ages of visitors.

You will gain a better understanding of the Canterbury earthquakes if you view the collapsed spire of Christ Church Cathedral, a bell from the Cathedral, and clocks from the now-demolished railway station.

This is the best location for you if you are interested in learning about earthquakes as well as what occurred in the years 2010 and 2011.

Turn your attention toward what you’re hearing and open your ears!

Address: 299 Durham Street North, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand 

Riccarton House & Bush

Riccarton House & Bush Christchurch, New Zealand
Riccarton House & Bush is one of the best places to go in Christchurch, New Zealand

The last remaining remnant of an ancient podocarp forest.

The heritage site of Riccarton House & Bush includes two historic structures with ornamental gardens and lovely parkland. The tranquil house is surrounded by an extensive native bush forest with 600-year-old Kahikatea trees.

Within the walls of the home, there is a 12-hectare reserve that guests are free to explore.

Throughout the restored buildings, you’ll discover the heartbreaking tale of Dean’s family’s triumph over adversity, as well as their unfulfilled dreams and unfulfilled promises. The Dean family was the first group of Europeans to settle permanently in this area.

This is a wonderful place for you to relax and enjoy your morning coffee, and if you are a fan of art, it gives you the best view that you have ever seen.

If you are interested in exploring this location, make a reservation right away and wait for your tour guide.

Address: 16 Kahu Road, Fendalton, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand 

The Physics Room 

The Physics Room Christchurch, New Zealand
The Physics Room is one of the best places to go in Christchurch, New Zealand

A New Zealand-based contemporary art environment dedicated to showcasing new and innovative works.

In Christchurch, New Zealand, a project space dedicated to contemporary art can be found at The Physics Room. Its goal is to help contemporary art grow and get more attention.

It seeks to include art as a contributing voice in social, intellectual, and political debates, as well as to actively seek out connections between the arts and other forms of cultural production.

The Physics Room is a wonderful asset to the Christchurch and wider New Zealand art scenes. Some of the activities in the gallery’s program include exhibitions, short performances, publications, and conferences.

It provides temporary studio space and lodging for visitors who want to take a break for a while.

The gallery, which has been based in central Christchurch since 1996, plays an important role in fostering a new generation of artists and developing critical discourse in art and culture in the city.

As you enter the gallery, allow your artistic knowledge to be drawn out.

Address: Registry Building, 301 Montreal Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand 

The TranzAlpine Train

The TranzAlpine Train Christchurch, New Zealand
The TranzAlpine Train Christchurch, New Zealand / denisbin / Flickr

Take a ride on the TranzAlpine to get a glimpse of the natural landscape surrounding you.

This train is one of the world’s great train journeys, covering 223 kilometers in just over 5 hours one way. You will travel through the magnificent Canterbury Plains, with the mighty Southern Alps as your view!

It is a long-distance train that runs between Christchurch and Greymouth, on New Zealand’s east and west coasts. With massive seating and a panoramic view.

Viewing decks with panoramic windows, reclined seats, and GPS-located commentary in the seats are all part of the standard service package.

The TranzAlpine descends from Arthur’s Pass through the 8.5-kilometer-long Otira Tunnel. This historic structure was the world’s second-longest tunnel at the time that the train was finished being constructed in 1923.

You are about to set a new adventure that will leave a lasting impression on you. 

Making it one of the world’s most impressive train journeys!

Address: Troup Drive, Addington, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand 

Tramway Restaurant

Tramway Restaurant Christchurch, New Zealand
Tramway Restaurant Christchurch, New Zealand / Bernard Spragg. NZ / Flickr

Offering a unique dining experience in a tram.

The Tramway Restaurant gives you an extraordinary way to see Christchurch. 

Enjoy a delicious dinner while taking in the sights of the central city from the comfort of their refurbished dining tram.

Explore the luxury of New Zealand’s only tramway restaurant, where you can dine in style in our 36-seat air-conditioned vintage dining tram while being treated to the best service, delicious cuisine, and beverages the country offers.

The Tramway Restaurant, popular with locals and visitors, is a great place to celebrate special occasions, have romantic date nights, or simply see Christchurch from a different perspective.

There is nothing quite like strolling around the central city as dusk falls, followed by a wonderful meal enjoyed in the company of good friends.

Invite your pals as you create a new experience while dining at one of the unique restaurants in New Zealand! 

Address: 111 Worcester Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

Travis Wetland Nature Heritage Park

Travis Wetland Nature Heritage Park Christchurch, New Zealand
Travis Wetland Nature Heritage Park Christchurch, New Zealand / Jocelyn Kinghorn / Flickr

This is a route that is ideal for a traveler with a sense of adventure.

Travis Wetland Nature Heritage Park contains pre-European Christchurch and Canterbury plains swamp land.

A sandbar gradually blocked access to the sea, lowering salinity and allowing wetland plants to supplant saltmarsh species. It is an important location for wetland plant conservation on a local and regional scale.

Travis has a surface area of 56.5 hectares and is Christchurch’s largest wetland located in a city. 

There are outdoor activities that you can participate in, such as going to the location by going to hiking trails, biking trails, running trails, and other trails on All Trails.

The pathway includes a gravel path and some boardwalks, as well as beautiful landscaping and views of the swamp. 

Make sure to bring some water and something light to eat with you, just in case you find that you get hungry.

Buckle up and start your trip!

Address: 280 Beach Road, Burwood, Christchurch 8083, New Zealand 

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Christchurch, New Zealand
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Christchurch, New Zealand / Bobby Ketchum / Flickr

Create a new adventure to see wildlife. 

The Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a well-known place for tourists to visit in New Zealand. Its goal is to protect native wildlife and breeds of native animals.

It is home to 95 different species, divided into three categories. These categories were heritage farmyard, exotics, and New Zealand, natives.

Seeing the kaka, kiwi, kea, tuatara, and takahe, collectively known as New Zealand’s Big 5 Wildlife, is one of the many advantages of paying a visit to this zoo.

They will give you a chance to discover the whole reserve, feed the animals, proceed on a kiwi tour, or have an encounter with their famous lemurs and capybara.

Allow yourself to enjoy seeing exotic animals such as scarlet macaws, gold and blue macaws, ring-tailed lemurs, and capybaras.

The heritage farmyard is home to the Breeds Conservation Society, which acts as a steward for endangered farm animals such as zebu, damara sheep, island rabbits, and arapawa goats, amongst others.

Bring your children to an environment where they can relax and make new friends!

Do you need any more convincing that Christchurch, New Zealand is worth a visit? Check out why visit Christchurch, New Zealand, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: 60 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand 

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