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Things to do in Christchurch in 2021

Discover the top activities you should add to your list when planning a trip to Christchurch.

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Courtney Edwards
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Christchurch is the South Island's largest city and has plenty of activities to keep you busy during your visit. With a mix of landmarks, attractions and nature waiting to be explored, we've put together our top recommendations so you can see the very best of Christchurch.

Top things to do in Christchurch

1. Make your way to the best vantage point in Christchurch

A visit to Christchurch is not complete without taking the journey up to the peak of Port Hills on the Christchurch Gondola. Take in 360-degree views of Christchurch, Lake Ellesmere and the Canterbury Plains, all offering the perfect photo opportunity. Before you make your way back down, experience Christchurch throughout time on the Time Tunnel ride you'll find located in the main building.

2. Explore the city of the Christchurch Tram

If it's your first time visiting Christchurch, getting a day pass for the vintage Christchurch Tram is a great way to move around the city. You can get on and off as many times as you like, which is ideal if visiting attractions like the Cathedral Square, Canterbury Museum and the Botanic Gardens is on your to-do list.

Fun things to do in Christchurch

3. See the very best of Christchurch with a city tour

Whether you're short on time and want to see all of the major sights or you'd like a local to show you around, a guided tour is a great way to see the very best of Christchurch.

4. Get the best views of Christchurch from the sky

If you're looking for a unique adventure in Christchurch, don't look past a helicopter ride that will have you soaring above the city to see views you won't be able to find from any other vantage points. Best of all, you'll be the one in control of the helicopter, with a professional helicopter instructor right by your side.

Things to do in Christchurch at night

5. Book a dinner at the Tramway Restaurant

For a dining experience unlike any other in Christchurch, hop on board the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant for a four-course dining experience. This restaurant on wheels will take you around the city centre so you can take in the sights, including the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Avon River.

6. Watch an entertaining and educational Maori performance

Discover more about Maori culture with a night tour to visit the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve and enjoy a traditional Maori performance with song, dance and the haka.

Things to do in Christchurch with kids

7. Gather the family for an action-packed day full of fun

Christchurch Adventure Park is a playground for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies. With plenty of activities to choose from, including mountain biking, zip-lining and taking a chairlift to soak in views of Christchurch, this is the ultimate activity for a family day out.

8. Explore the wonders of Antarctica at the International Antarctic Centre

A little slice of Antarctica can be found at the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the interactive displays and exhibitions showcasing the wildlife and ecosystems of Antarctica. During your visit, be sure to visit the Husky Zone, the Snow Dome and pay a visit to the Little Blue Penguins.

Free things to do in Christchurch

9. Visit the Canterbury Museum

Make your way to the Canterbury Museum to discover Christchurch's past with natural and human artefact collections on display. If you have kids in tow, head to level 3 to visit Discovery, the natural history centre for children where they can dig for fossils and discover fascinating facts about insects. Entry for the museum is free, but we recommend making your way there via the Hop on Hop off bus service.

10. Stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

A visit to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens comes highly recommended by locals and tourists. It's located in the heart of the city, so you can take a stroll through the gardens as you go from A to B or set up a picnic along the river. Be sure to check out the native flora and tropical greenhouse during your visit.

See the latest Christchurch activity and experience deals

Everything New Zealand
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Up to 20% off things to do in Christchurch

Expires 31 Dec 2021
Available on select travel dates on activities including skydiving, whale watching, skiing and more.
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Everything New Zealand
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Up to 75% off things to do in New Zealand

Plus kids go free on select activities including skydives, sightseeing cruises, tours and helicopter flights. Destinations include Queenstown, Auckland, Franz Josef, Taupo, Milford Sound and more.
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Everything New Zealand
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Up to 25% off things to do in Auckland

Expires 31 Dec 2021
Available on select travel dates. Activities include wine tours, walking tours, jet boat rides, sightseeing cruises, helicopter flights and more.
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Everything New Zealand
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Up to 60% off things to do in Queenstown

Expires 31 Dec 2021
Available on select travel dates. Activities include dining experiences, sightseeing cruises, helicopter flights, jet boat rides and more.
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Everything New Zealand
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Up to 20% off things to do in Christchurch

Expires 31 Dec 2021
Available on select travel dates on activities including skydiving, whale watching, skiing and more.
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AAT Kings
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Up to 2.5% off holiday bookings + Extra 10% off day tours

Available on select dates until 2021 across Australia and New Zealand when you purchase 2+ tours. T&Cs apply.
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Everything New Zealand
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Things to do in Dunedin from $53

Expires 31 Dec 2021
Available on select travel dates on activities including spas and tours.
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