Discover the best places to eat, drink, shop, and explore among the sweeping golden hills, frothing beaches and vibrant downtown of Christchurch.
Officially the oldest established city in New Zealand, this Canterbury city has suffered its fair share of hard times over the years. The February 2011 earthquake struck Christchurch a massive blow, but thanks to a loyal population of hardworking people, the city has once again found its feet. Home to a mix of pre-earthquake favourites and exciting new eateries, bars, and shops, Christchurch has a big city buzz with a world-class hospitality scene.
One of only four cities in the world to have been planned around the layout of the city square, it’s easy to get from A to B in the centre of the Garden City. With Christchurch's plans to accommodate more cyclists and pedestrians, the city is well on its way to becoming an enticing destination for tourists as well as locals
Sweeping golden hills, stunning beaches, and snow-capped mountains a short drive away make Christchurch the hub of an outdoor-loving population.
Hosting a bustling summer season of events, mainly based out of inner-city Hagley Park, Christchurch has plenty of creative talent to showcase when it comes to adventure, performance, art, and music. Match that with an innovative start-up culture and urban business scene, and Christchurch is definitely a city to watch.
12 Hours Christchurch
The best things to see, eat, and do in Christchurch
‘03 Pizza Devotees: Your Guide To The Best Spots in Christchurch
We may be far from Italy in our little corner of the world here in Ōtautahi Christchurch, but our pizza game is strong, and wherever you are in the city, you’ll never be far from some excellent choices.
9 Christchurch Cafés Serving a Matcha Made in Heaven
In Ōtautahi Christchurch, some of our favourite coffee shops, cafés and bakeries are embracing the matcha lifestyle, whisking the powder into drinks, served hot or iced, and perhaps pimped up with vanilla, maple syrup and blended strawberries (just like Wicked, you can only run from this pink and green trend for so long). No longer just in the hands of the barista, you’ll also find matcha injected into some of your favourite baked goods: cookies, basque cheesecake, tiramisu, and more.
Where to Eat & Drink by the Beaches and Bays of Ōtautahi Christchurch
You don’t need to go far to find salty H2O in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Without trying to make anyone jealous, us locals are pretty lucky to have easy access to long stretches of sand, cute beach villages and sparkling bays to float in. And when we’ve emerged from the water and wiped the sand from between our toes, there’s always a great coffee shop, brunch spot, pizzeria or fun modern restaurant to dive into next.
Insider’s Guide to Christchurch’s St Asaph Block
Located on the South-East edge of Christchurch’s Central City, the St Asaph Street block exudes a cool grittiness that’s hard to imitate. While this one-way stretch runs right through the city and ends at Hagley Park, it’s the laid-back mixed-use zone between Fitzgerald Ave and Barbadoes Street that defines this street’s unique character. From music venues and community events to art spaces, low-key bars, and a great coffee roastery, here are 10 reasons why this St Asaph Street block should never be overlooked.
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View AllOzone Coffee Walker Street
The ultimate coffee hosts, Ozone Coffee, has a reputation around New Zealand and beyond for producing superior specialty coffee.
Face.it Sumner
Thought the beach town of Sumner couldn’t get any more relaxing? Think again. Nestled on the corner of Wakefield Ave and Nayland Street, Face.it is a holistic studio designed to uplift your body, mind, and soul.
Space Academy
In a converted industrial warehouse space on St Asaph Street, Space Academy has been keeping this part of town humming since it opened its doors in 2014.
Doki Hair Salon
Finding the right hairdresser can be a tricky business. But when Miki opened Doki Hair Salon in December 2015, she became a dream match for many Ōtautahi residents.
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Discover the best places to eat, drink, shop, and explore among the sweeping golden hills, frothing beaches and vibrant downtown of Christchurch.
Taylor Boutique
Taylor Boutique occupies a prime spot on the corner of Papanui and Aikmans Road.
Soulful Coffee Shop Diamond Harbour
Picture this… you’ve just disembarked from the ferry at Diamond Harbour and the need for coffee is strong, luckily after an easy 10 minute stroll you arrive in...
Restaurant O.G.B
If you’re searching for a taste of London cool meets Mediterranean vibes in the heart of Christchurch city, Restaurant O.G.B is the answer.
Jolly Deli
Jolly Deli on Christchurch’s Tuam Street sees two of the city’s food scene stars join forces to serve up some of the best sammies around the ‘03.
Trees for Canterbury
Located down a quiet suburban street in Christchurch’s Ferrymead you will find a hidden gem called Trees for Canterbury, a native plant nursery, garden centre and...
Vesuvio
Walking or driving down an ever-busy Papanui Road in Christchurch, you might be surprised that a sophisticated slice of Europe can be found only metres away at Vesuvio.
Dhi Ferrari Cakes
If a craving for something sweet strikes and you’re near The Welder in Christchurch’s city centre, you must immediately seek out Dhi Ferrari Cakes.
The Crossing
The Crossing is one of Christchurch’s greatest accomplishments post-earthquakes and has become the city centre’s premium shopping destination.
Bomba
Bomba on Lyttelton’s bustling London Street celebrates two of Italy’s greatest gifts to the culinary world… pizza and gelato.
Brewda
Looking to wow your tastebuds and discover your new favourite watering hole in Christchurch? May we present Brewda, located in The Terrace Courtyard, a bar and eatery that...
Oulala Wine Bar
It’s no secret the hospitality scene in Christchurch is thriving, not only in the city centre but far and wide in the suburbs you’ll find some delightful gems.
dainty
Discerning coffee drinkers and brunch lovers Dainty will quickly become your home away from home.
Grizzly Baked Goods Cashel Street
Christchurch locals will need no introduction to Grizzly Baked Goods; first appearing on the scene at the Christchurch Farmers Market with their epic bagels in 2013 and...
