Don’t let anyone go telling you Christchurch bars aren’t the same since the earthquakes… well perhaps they’re partly right, but only in a positive way.
If ever there was an example of a city that chose to reinvent it’s nightlife, Christchurch is it. As in all good cities, Christchurch bars are the go-to spot for old mates wanting to catch up over a pint, new dates settling in for a cosy night and groups of young dancers wanting to show off their swagger.
Whether you’re here for a night only, or have made Christchurch your home, don’t be content to stick with just one bar for the night, as there are too many great options to experience. Wandering the city centre is a good way to get a first impression of a city, and come evening time there’s plenty of reason to stay out longer as Christchurch bars put on a show. Watch for where the crowds are and know that the more people look like they are having a good time, the more likely you are to too. Don’t blame us if you wake up with a dusty head the next morning though, Christchurch bars and nightlife can be such a good time that it’s easy to forget when a sensible bedtime is.
Bear in mind though there’s plenty in the suburbs to keep you entertained too. Lyttelton, Sumner, Lincoln and Woolston (to name a few) are all home to some fine establishments that have grown a firm following over the years. Wanting to know where to go while you’re in Christchurch? Head along to one of these local favourites and strike up a conversation with someone at the bar, as they’re sure to know the best spots to camp, tramp, fish, swim, ski and shop.
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Bar Franco
If you’re looking for a slice of La Dolce Vita in the centre of Christchurch city, walk into Bar Franco and you’ll know instantly you’ve found it.
Two Thumb Brewing Co. - Redcliffs
Redcliffs locals and anyone who regularly visits Christchurch’s seaside suburbs were overjoyed when Two Thumb Brewing Co. opened their Main Road brew bar in April 2025.
Imōto Lounge Bar
Looking for your next fun night out in Christchurch? Well, there’s someone we’d love to introduce you to.
Sumner Post Office
Restored to glory and proudly standing on Nayland Street, Sumner Post Office is the neighbourhood’s new favourite place to eat, drink, and give back to the community...
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.
Tap Room by Vesuvio
Vesuvio has been on the Christchurch hospitality scene for over 30 years and they have recently added a Tap Room to their Papanui Road venue.
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.
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.
The Crossing
The Crossing is one of Christchurch’s greatest accomplishments post-earthquakes and has become the city centre’s premium shopping destination.
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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.
Lillies
An ethereal green glow emanates from the windows of what looks to be another garage workshop in Christchurch's industrial neighbourhood of Phillipstown.
Kong
Ready to flee the 21st century for the night? We know just the place.
Two Thumb Brewing Co. – Harbourside
For years Diamond Harbour residents have been patiently waiting for a local watering hole; a venue to catch up with their neighbours and somewhere to kick back and relax...
Bar Yoku
The ultimate izakaya experience in Ōtautahi Christchurch, Bar Yoku is something special.
Two Thumb Brewing Company on Manchester
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Two Thumb Brewing on Colombo
On the edge of Christchurch’s city centre, just as Colombo Street crosses into Sydenham, you’ll find Two Thumb Brewing Co.’s brewery and taproom.
Tiger Baby Bar
Tucked away off Lichfield Street in the heart of Christchurch’s city centre you’ll find one of the gems of Ōtautahi’s bar scene, Tiger Baby.
Cleavers Corner, Ashburton
Cleavers Corner is the locals' go-to in Ashburton.
Moon Under Water
Moon Under Water features all the best aspects of a classic pub that's up with the times when it comes to great brews, food and service.
Downstairs Bar
What do you get when you marry the cosy vibes of an intimate pub with the sophistication of an inner city wine bar? You end up with the best of both worlds and the result is Downstairs on New Regent Street.
Paddy McNaughton's
Paddy McNaughton's is a pint-sized pub with Guinness and Magners on tap. It’s the closest thing to a Dublin pub this side of the equator. Live music every week.
Austin Club
If you like your bars secret, check out Austin Club tucked in a basement, down an alleyway. Oh, and you'll need the password, too.
Six Ounces
There’s nothing quite like a cosy neighbourhood haunt and six ounces is exactly that.
The Last Word
Prepare to be charmed by The Last Word’s relaxed, friendly environment and impressive drinks offering
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Midnight Shanghai
Midnight Shanghai offers Christchurch elevated, modern Chinese fare with karaoke, handcrafted cocktails and a menu designed for sharing.
Cellar Door
The Cellar Door focus is on approachable wine drinking, seasonal fare and free flowing conversation. It feels like your ‘local’ but has a distinctive, exciting element, sans pretentiousness.
Evil Genius
Evil Genius Bar, Restaurant & Lair is a destination you need to get to know. Open from dawn ‘til way past dusk, it has everything from coffee to cocktails.
gin gin
gin gin's the spot whether you’re keen for an after work bevvie, a boogie, a place to host your own party, seriously good food, a night on the town, or some combination thereof.
Dux Central
If bars could be left or right handed, Dux Central would be ambidextrous. There’s nothing this place can’t be.
The Birdwood
Much-loved neighbourhood cafe by day, knock-out contemporary Italian eatery by night – The Birdwood might just be the dream local hospo joint.
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The Craft Embassy
Great beer, great food, great views. Craft Embassy is the whole package and more.
OGB
A speakeasy-style bar, OGB serves up an old-school approach to hospitality.
Brew Moon Brewing Company
An independent family-run craft beer brewery and pizzeria, the Brew Moon is a much-loved hospitality spot in Amberley.
Civil and Naval
This Lyttelton spot offers a well thought-out sharing menu dotted with memorable plates along with excellent wine, beer and cocktails.
The Laboratory
Offering an excellent range of craft beer, wood fired pizzas and tapas-style plates that are designed to be shared, this pub is a Lincoln local’s favourite.
Smash Palace
For the novelty of having your local beer served from the window of a bus, look no further than Smash Palace.
Pomeroy's Old Brewery Inn
Pomeroy’s has been the catalyst of the Christchurch craft beer scene for years, with its ever-changing blackboard showcasing over 31 beers.
The Tannery
Prepared to be wowed by the sophisticated one-stop-shop that is The Tannery.
