6 Finest Attractions In Christchurch

There is something for everyone in Christchurch, from outdoor adventures to fine dining. This is wonderful, but it can make narrowing your search and deciding what to do tricky, especially if you have never been here before.

Luckily for you, that is where we come in to help! We have teamed up with Travellers Autobarn in Christchurch to show you the six best attractions that can make up part of your trip to Christchurch. Let’s dive into our list now!

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

First up, we have the stunning Christchurch Botanic Gardens. These gardens are located in the center of Christchurch, giving the city its name as Garden City. The gardens span over 21 hectares and contain a variety of plants native to New Zealand and exotic flora.

The Heritage Rose Garden and Herb Garden are must-see areas containing specific species of flora. The huge gardens offer plenty of space for you to walk and explore—you can easily spend an entire day here! You can visit at any time of year, too, and enjoy stunning scenery, making it an easy attraction to fit into your trip.

Canterbury Museum

Next, we have the Canterbury Museum, which is the ideal attraction for anyone who wants to learn about the history of New Zealand. Here, you will learn about natural, human, and cultural history, providing you with an engaging and educational day out.

The museum originally opened in a stunning Gothic Revival building, which has since been expanded to accommodate the growing exhibits. Over 2 million artifacts are spread across the museum’s multiple galleries, and some interactive elements are also available.  

Christchurch Gondola

Christchurch gondola is the perfect attraction for anyone who wants to enjoy panoramic views! The gondola opened in 1992 and carries passengers from the base at Heathcote Valley up to the summit of Mount Cavendish. The cable car takes around fifteen minutes, allowing you to enjoy panoramic views as you move. The car does move quite slowly, so you have time to soak up the views.

On a clear day, you can see Christchurch, the Southern Alps, and the Canterbury Plains. We recommend booking in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, to avoid disappointment.

TranzAlpine Train

Fans of trains need to board the TranzAlpine train during their visit to Christchurch! The inner city rail service runs along New Zealand from east to west and provides one of the most scenic journeys in the world.

Board the train in Christchurch and travel 223 kilometers to Greymouth. The journey is perfect if you want to see several sites but don’t have the time to explore all of them. Let the train show you around while you enjoy a comfortable seat (ideally next to a window)! Book your train fare in advance to spread the cost and ensure you have a seat ready for you.

The train is a good option if you want to travel to other destinations on the South Island without hiring a car or using public transport.

Avon River

The Avon River winds past the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park, providing stunning views of Christchurch. The large river is a huge part of the city’s heritage, weaving through the city before meeting the sea. Several stunning bridges cross the river, and beautiful trees line the riverside.

The banks of this river were once home to the city’s first residential areas, but earthquakes have ruined most of these buildings. Now, you can walk along the banks, remembering the heritage and enjoying the view. We recommend making the most of your time by Avon River and bringing a picnic blanket, your favorite coffee, or some snacks for an affordable lunch in the city.

Pegasus Bay Winery

The Pegasus Bay winery is a family-owned and operated vineyard and one of the largest in Canterbury. Established in 1985, it is known as the best palace in Canterbury for a boutique experience. You can taste some of the finest wines they offer or enjoy a package deal that includes cheeses or a meal.

Pegasus Bay Winery is the perfect way to spend a few hours as a couple or a group of friends celebrating a special occasion.

Final Thoughts

Whether you want to take a cable car to enjoy the view, spend a day at the Botanic Gardens, or enjoy a glass of locally made wine, Christchurch has something for everyone. Where possible, we recommend purchasing your tickets beforehand to reduce the cost of your trip and ensure you can see everything you want at Christchurch and Canterbury.