7 Unique Date Night Ideas in Christchurch
The Best Independent Bookshops in New Zealand
Things to Do with Kids in Christchurch
From giant playgrounds and wildlife parks to rainy day museums, hot pools and kid-friendly cafes, here’s where to take the whole family in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
The Best Ice Cream & Gelato in Christchurch
On a hot day in Christchurch, there’s no better way to cool down than with a delicious iced delight.
Things to Do in Akaroa: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
The Best Pizza in Christchurch: 10 Spots for ‘03 Pizza Devotees
The Best Shopping in Christchurch: A Local’s Guide
The Best Japanese Restaurants in Christchurch
Just like food from any country, Japanese cuisine has an array of regional specialities that have been created from local ingredients and traditional recipes. The best way to sample these would be to take a culinary tour across the island nation, but luckily for us in Christchurch, the city offers a number of authentic Japanese restaurants, all with their own speciality.
The Best Indian Restaurants in Christchurch
Who doesn’t love a good curry with perfectly cooked rice and soft Naan bread? Add to that a side of raita, some onion bhajis, plus a mango lassi or perhaps a nice cold beer, and let the feast begin!
The Best Hairdressers in Christchurch
Fall in love with your locks with a visit to one of these top salons in Ōtautahi
The Best Op Shops & Second-Hand Clothing Stores in Christchurch
The Best Brunch in Christchurch: 10 Cafés to Try
Christchurch Food Guide: Chef Alex Davies' Favourite Restaurants
8 Christmas Destinations to Book Now Across New Zealand
A summer guide to eight of New Zealand's best holiday destinations, featuring the best places to make a pit stop, pull up a chair, have a mosey or unwind.
Neat in the Neighbourhood: Your Guide to Sydenham
Ask a Christchurch local where the city's independent spirit lives loudest, and plenty will point you south of the centre. Once an archetypal precinct of warehouses and workshops, Sydenham has spent the post-quake years decorating its industrial bones with roasteries, breweries, boutiques and just about everything you could ask of the city fringe. It's where street art meets industry, and good coffee meets great perusing. There's usually something pretty sweet, and tasty, hidden down its many side-streets - you just have to know where to look.
Where to Find the Cosiest Cocktails This Winter
From speakeasy hideaways to heritage hotel bars, here are the cosiest cocktail spots to crowd into this winter across Aotearoa New Zealand. Settle in by the fire, slip downstairs into a low-lit nook, or perch at the bar while the rain does its thing outside.
Mangia Italiano: Where to find Christchurch's finest Italian restaurants
We've searched out Christchurch's best establishments offering a slice of the good life, inspired by the fields of Florence, streets of Rome and canals of Venice.
Creative Spaces Around New Zealand to Inspire Your Next Mindful Hobby
Throw on Your Puffer, There are Plenty of Things to Do in Christchurch This Winter
Has the drop in temperature and southerly blasts got you hunkered down? Well, it’s time to grab your coat, we’ve got some activities to get you out of hibernation mode this winter.
Fresh Hop Season: Local Christchurch Breweries Worth a Visit
Set Tails A-Wagging: Dog-Friendly Places in Ōtautahi Christchurch
12 Hours Christchurch
The best things to see, eat, and do in Christchurch
Best of 2025: 22 New & Neat Openings in Ōtautahi Christchurch
The Naveya & Sloane Guide to Ōtautahi’s Central City Gems
A Day Well Spent At The Tannery
Christchurch as a city is not short of excellent retail, hospitality and entertainment options both in the centre and in the wider suburbs. Take, for example, The Tannery, a premium boutique hub in Woolston, one of the city’s oldest suburbs. Everything you could possibly need or want for a day of shopping, dining and fun with friends can be found right here.
A Neat Day in New Brighton: What to See, Eat & Do
Oh, we do like to be beside the seaside – especially the lively shores of New Brighton in Christchurch. Here's a whole day's worth of reasons why.
Live Like a Local: Discover Perfect Stays and Neat Spots Around Christchurch
When you’re booking a trip, one of the crucial decisions you have to make is where to stay, and while in days gone by it was a question of motel or hotel, nowadays there are so many more options to suit the kind of traveller you are. And if you are the kind that enjoys a boutique apartment stay, where all of life’s little luxuries and comforts have been thought of, then a Perfect Stays property might be just what you are after. Proudly owned and operated in Christchurch, they are experts in providing quality accommodation and knowing their city.
Fill Your Cup: The Complete Wellness Guide to Ōtautahi Christchurch
ICYMI: New and Neat Openings Across Aotearoa
11 Walks to Do in Canterbury and Where to Reward Yourself After
In Good Spirits: A Day in the Life of a Distiller
The Spirits Workshop in the heart of Sydenham, on the outskirts of Christchurch’s city centre was founded by four whisky lovers in 2016. They had a vision to develop distinctly New Zealand spirits and to give our reputable wines and craft beer a run for their money on the world stage. It’s fair to say they’re realising this goal and are an Ōtautahi success story.
Spanner Turned Spatula: 10 Converted Warehouse Spaces in Christchurch
High ceilings, raw materials and a little grit meet warm hospitality, bold flavours and serious creativity. Here are some of our favourite spots that have taken the leap from industrial warehouse to delicious destination.
From Lox to Loaded: The Must-Try Bagels in Christchurch
Schmeared, topped or filled? Plain, sesame or everything? Fresh or toasted? Ordering a bagel often involves a decision or two (or three, four and more!), and that begins when you are trying to think of where to go to get one. Luckily for Christchurch locals and visitors, the garden city delivers in spades when it comes to their bagel offering.
Best on Bread: 12 Top Sandwich Spots in Christchurch
Not all sandwiches were made equal so we've rounded up some of our favourite spots to grab a sammy in Christchurch.
Comfort in a Bowl: Where to Find the Best Soups in Christchurch
Plate to Play: Where to Dine Near Christchurch's New Court Theatre
Where to Find the Best Baked Goods in Christchurch
Not Eggs Benny: 10 Interesting Brunch Spots in Christchurch
From Malaysian-inspired breakfasts to exciting bagel fillings, bougie oats to bánh mì, hokey pokey lattes to meatball subs, next time you’re planning a brunch date, skip the eggs on toast and try something new from these 11 standout cafés in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
The Hunt for Christchurch's Hottest Hot Cross Buns
It’s that magical time of year, where the comforting scent of warm spices, citrus and melted butter fills the neighbourhood. Ah, Hot Cross Bun season. Where would we be without these Easter treats providing the best end-of-summer coping mechanism. Whether you need to put in a bulk order for Easter weekend or fancy a quick single hit on the go, we went on a taste-testing mission (a tough job but someone’s gotta do it) to bring you this guide to Christchurch’s hottest hot cross buns.
Live the Digital Nomad Life with 13 Christchurch Cafés That Have Free Wifi
The sparkle can dim on working from home day after day when you only have the dog or cat for company and you’re at a desk you’ve squeezed into the spare bedroom, surrounded by all kinds of miscellaneous items. Sometimes you need to be around the energy of others, enjoy a cup of coffee made by someone else and have a change in scene. Or perhaps you’re visiting Christchurch and are working remotely, you want to sample the epic food scene whilst still ticking off your work to-do list.
8 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
Best of 2024: New & Neat Eats in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Make no mistake: Christchurch’s food scene is only going in one direction – and that’s skyward. This year, a long list of locals turned their notepad of ideas into delicious realities. From neighbourhood cafes and urban wineries to pâtisserie paradises and one-of-a-kind restaurants, the city’s offerings continue to grow in both flavour and creativity.
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.
Meet and Greet: Barkeepers of St Asaph Block
Christchurch Fan Club: Kendra Walls on Central City Living
To truly get to the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch, you have to connect with those who live and breathe its central city streets. We caught up with Kendra to chat about life in the heart of Ōtautahi, what it’s like having the vibrant St Asaph Street block at her doorstep, why a thriving nightlife is essential for a city, and what excites her about Christchurch’s future. Just when we thought we couldn’t love this city any more…
Te Kohanga Taiao Sensory Nature Play Park: Powered by Hummingbird
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Pierside Developers Robbie & Chris Harris
10 Top Spots For A Dry July Drink In Christchurch
11 Cracking Cabinets in Christchurch
Ōtautahi locals know we are on to a good thing when it comes to our cafe scene. We are spoiled for choice throughout the city when it comes to quality establishments serving up incredible coffee, food and service. In fact, in Christchurch, the problem you are often faced with when deciding where to catch up with a friend or enjoy a lunch date is the sheer number of cafes that are smashing it.
Pedro’s Secret Vegan Picks in Christchurch
Once upon a time, creamy sauces and flaky croissants were strictly off limits to the vegan community. Thanks to innovative chefs like Christchurch-based Pedro Johnston, this couldn't be further from today's reality.
Better than New: Finding the Sparkle in Secondhand with Nifty’s Rosie Carroll
There are people in this world who have a knack for turning one person’s trash into their own wardrobe treasure. After years of working in retail, schooling up on fast fashion, and selling her own threads at markets, Rosie Carroll is undeniably blessed with this gift.
Meet Sung Park: The Triple Shot Threat of Christchurch’s Café Scene
Operating one successful business in the hospitality sector is no mean feat – but managing three thriving establishments? Well, that’s something else. Sung Park, together with his wife Jenny, is the mastermind behind Christchurch’s beloved café trio: Lux, Doubles and Akin.
The Wine Bars Winning Over Christchurch Ōtautahi
The Businesses Championing Sustainability in Christchurch Ōtautahi
Championing sustainability is no easy feat, but these businesses are walking the walk and making a positive impact on the world around us.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Elisha Blogg
Elisha Blogg grew up in pre-quake Christchurch before taking off overseas for nearly ten years. When she was pregnant with their first child, Elisha and her partner Mike moved to Christchurch to be closer to the much-appreciated support of her folks, and landed in New Brighton in 2018. Six years, two tiny humans, one very needy black cat and their second New Brighton home later, they have immersed themselves into the culture and community. They cannot imagine living in any other part of Ōtautahi Christchurch. We chatted to Elisha about her favourite experiences in New Brighton and what makes it special.
The Best Eats Down Riccarton Road
While for some Riccarton Road may conjure up images of slow crawling traffic, BYOs gone rogue or adolescent moments at the mall that they’d rather forget, the quantity of exceptional eateries makes up for the road’s lesser qualities.
The Neat Places team’s favourite places to brunch
Here at Neat Places, we're certainly partial to great food – and brunch is no exception. We've spilled the beans on our team's favourite spots around the country to enjoy a slow morning over eggs, smashed avo, pancakes, omelettes, and more goodness...
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Jenna Ingram's Picks of the Neatest Things to do in New Brighton
Shafeeq Ismail's Favourite Christchurch Food Spots
Christchurch's Finest Places To Go For a Cocktail
Elevate Your Lunch in Christchurch's CBD
When it comes to meals throughout the day, breakfast is touted as the most important and dinner often gets all the glory, however, we say there is a serious case to be made for lunch being the best. In Christchurch’s city centre, there are plenty of options to satisfy your twelve o’clock hunger.
The Best Christchurch Spots For An Iced Drink This Summer
Picture this… the sun is shining, the vibes are popping and you’re in the mood for the perfect icy beverage to complement your day.
How to Survive a Hot Summer’s Day in Christchurch
Where You'd Rather Be: The Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Christchurch
Dine Out on the Neat Places’ Team's Restaurant Picks
In Our Book: Here are the Best Bookshops in Christchurch Ōtautahi
There is a certain kind of feeling you get when you enter a good bookshop, it’s warm and inviting, and a sense of cosiness and calm takes over. The scent of hundreds and thousands of pages waiting to be discovered and devoured is nostalgic, and it is easy to lose an hour or two browsing the aisles deliberating over your next read. In Ōtautahi Christchurch, we are blessed with a stellar number of bookstores, from a specialist children’s shop, booksellers that have been in the city for generations and second-hand shops that ensure literary gems reach the hands of new readers. So whether you are on the hunt for the latest bestseller, looking to build up your child’s library collection or happiest when spending an afternoon amongst stacks and rows of books, here’s your guide (in no particular order) to enjoying the best bookshops around the city.
Fill your Christmas Table with Christchurch’s Best
Best of 2023: The Neatest Newcomers of Christchurch’s Food Scene
Sandwich shops, spritz bars, the return of old favourites, churches converted into pubs and open fire cooking. This year was arguably one of the most exciting times to be dining out in Christchurch Ōtautahi, as we were treated to an influx of new cafés, delis, wine bars, pubs and restaurants. From flashy riverside venues to humble hidden gems, here are 17 notable newcomers who opened their doors in 2023.
Rolleston Fields: Experience the New Side to Rolleston
Hit the motorway heading south from the centre of Christchurch, and in a mere 15-20 minutes, you’ll arrive in New Zealand’s fastest-growing town, Rolleston. Once dubbed “the town of the future”, it’s apparent this is now very much a reality with a booming population, plenty of investment and exciting new developments appearing on the scene. With its modern, design-led town centre, it’s clear to see why so many people from around the country and further afield are choosing to call Rolleston home.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Cam Burgess of Southpaw
Our Pick of the Tastiest Veggie Burgers in Christchurch
Venture forth: Your Guide to the Best of Banks Peninsula
If it weren’t for the Port Hills naturally demarcating Ōtautahi’s southern extent, the bays of Banks Peninsula may well have morphed into extensions of city suburbs by now. As it is, we’re exceptionally glad for this natural backdrop, hiding but alluding to the world that lies beyond.
The Recipe for a Neighbourhood Institution with Sarah Freeman of The Birdwood
Is there much better than a great neighbourhood local? A place where everyone knows your name, usual order and favourite seat. A place you’ve frequented so often that it feels like an extension of your living room. Wellington and Auckland have endless ‘locals’, but here in Ōtautahi Christchurch, they’re a little harder to uncover. For residents of Beckenham, however, they’re blessed with The Birdwood. A prominent character building perfectly positioned in the heart of the community. A café by day in one space and a restaurant come evening in another, and now thanks to some renovations, there’s more connection between the two and a new bar to familiarise yourself with.
The Emerging Organic Wine Brands of Waipara, North Canterbury
If you look beyond the standout Waipara wine brands we all know and love, four passionate young Canterbury winemakers are doing things a little differently. We spoke with each of them to better understand their inspiration and wine styles.
The Tale of Tussock Hill; The Journey of Vineyard to Table on Christchurch’s Port Hills
Growing grapes on Christchurch's Port Hills is rare and, from what I've been told, not easy. Match that with an onsite restaurant with a vantage point looking over Christchurch City and the vineyard while enjoying your glass of organic goodness, and you've got Tussock Hill. It's only been open since 2021 but already feels like part of the landscape.
New Zealand’s Top Hotels For Unforgettable Staycations
Forget the stale hotel stereotypes; New Zealand's staycation scene is flourishing with bold character and unrivalled charm.
An Interview with Josh Bradshaw of Sonder Leather Goods
We’re excited to announce the first of our Neat Places urban travel products, created in collaboration with some of our favourite makers.
To kick things off, we’ve partnered with our friends at Sonder Leather Goods to create a travel wallet for all your essentials, including your wallet, credit cards, and of course, a Neat Places pocket guide.
We sat down with Josh Bradshaw of Sonder to chat about the collaboration and the rhythms of leather...
Venture Out: A Day Trip from Christchurch in Every Direction
Culinary Inspirations: Behind the Scenes with Sweet Soul Pâtisserie's Rea Scur
As a passionate Francophile and self-confessed sweet tooth, Nicola Amy Hinman was rather excited to chat with Rea Scur, one half of the incredibly talented sister duo behind Christchurch Ōtautahi’s favourite pâtisserie, about her culinary inspirations and the creative process behind their exquisite desserts.
Exploring The Terrace: An Insider’s Guide
Unearth the hidden gems of Christchurch Ōtautahi's most vibrant dining and entertainment precinct. Just a stone's throw from the picturesque Avon River, The Terrace is a hub where authenticity meets creativity, a meeting point for the intimate and the avant-garde.
Where to Catchup With Friends During the Week in Christchurch
Weekends aren’t the only time for catching up with friends, and they no longer hold the monopoly on being when you can have some fun.
Three Late Night Spots in Christchurch for Coffee, Treats & Sweets
Connect With Your Core At The Best Pilates Studios In Christchurch
From Novice To Advanced Yogi, These Are The Best Yoga Studios in Christchurch
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Matt Morris, The Urban Monk
Meet Matt Morris of The Urban Monk, a fermentary providing nourishing sauerkraut to the people since 2012 and, more recently, opening doors on New Brighton Mall.
A taste of Mexico in Christchurch: The city's best Mexican restaurants
Craving Mexican food? Here are our picks of the best Mexican restaurants in Christchurch.
Table For One: The Best Solo Dining Spots In The Garden City
Go on, free yourself.
Christchurch's Sweetest Treats: Where to Find the City's Best Desserts
This may be a bold statement… but the best (and often most overlooked) meal of the day would have to be dessert. While some may argue that it doesn’t qualify as a meal, we would very much counter this, and our evidence lies in the many sweet sensations you can find around Christchurch Ōtautahi. One of the greatest qualities dessert has going for it, in our humble opinion, is you can eat it any time of the day. From a decadent pastry with your morning coffee to a treat-yourself-ice-cream moment to a lavish creation enjoyed post-dinner.
How to Spend Autumn in Christchurch Ōtautahi
Dinner and a Show? Here are our Picks on Where to Dine and be Entertained in Christchurch
Make a night out in Christchurch Ōtautahi with our roundup of the best places to enjoy dinner and a show.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Hamish Evans from Switch
Meet Hamish Evans, a coffee impresario, family man and local legend who calls New Brighton home.
Fast and Flavourful: Our Must-Try Takeaways In Christchurch
Discover some of Christchurch’s best food and eateries without having to leave the comfort of your own home.
Where to Dine as a Big Group in Christchurch
Planning a birthday celebration, special occasion or just a big catchup with friends or family? Inevitably one of the first thoughts that pops into your head is where to go and will there be enough space for a larger group. Luckily in Christchurch, we’ve got some pretty neat spots that have you covered when it comes to booking a big table or will happily rearrange things to make it work for your numbers. So let us take the pressure off trying to find a location, all you need to do is peruse our best-of list, make a booking and you are all sorted to enjoy whatever celebration or occasion you are organising.
Seats in the City: Best Seats in Ōtautahi Christchurch
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Samantha Fay
Best Urban Wine Experiences in New Zealand
Catherine & Lin from New Brighton Community Gardens
Meet Catherine O’Neill and Lin Klenner of New Brighton Community Gardens. Catherine has been the trusted Garden Manager since 2010 and Lin looks after everything but gardening. From the ground up is how they roll.
Best Things To Do In Christchurch This Spring
On a gorgeous day, it’s hard to beat Ōtautahi Christchurch in the springtime as the garden city comes into its own.
Where to Find Christchurch’s Best Burgers
If you are looking for a good burger in Christchurch, you don't have to look very far!
A Guide to Architecture and Art in Christchurch
Ōtautahi Christchurch’s cityscape is ever evolving and the combination of historic structures versus new modern buildings, works together in harmony to create a vibrant city.
10 South Island Ski Fields and Bars for Your Après-Ski
Memorable Christchurch Accommodation Worth Travelling for
Looking for that one-of-a-kind Christchurch accommodation that will make your trip to Ōtautahi truly unforgettable? From fancy five-star hotel experiences to secluded cabins in the heart of wine country, whatever your needs and whatever your budget, our Christchurch accommodation guide has you covered.
The Ultimate Local's Guide to Christchurch & Surrounds
Christchurch Ōtautahi is proud to be a place full of rich experiences that no matter where your interests lie or what stage of life you are at, this city is sure to deliver in spades. Armed with local insider knowledge, this guide gives you the very best that Christchurch Ōtautahi has to offer and ensures you won’t run out of things to do anytime soon.
Welcome to Eating & Drinking in Christchurch's East Block
The 'East Block' is home to many of Christchurch, Ōtautahi's best bars and restaurants. You will find a various range of cultures to meet every occasion.
Fill Your Picnic Basket with Sydenham's Finest Artisan Food & Drinks
The streets of Sydenham are filled with all the best artisan producers and quality food and drink. From picnics, special lunches or filling the pantry, we've made this list of Sydenham's top locations so you don't have to.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Reuben Woods
Meet Reuben Woods, an arts writer, curator and the creative director of 'Watch This Space', an urban arts trust dedicated to exploring, documenting and celebrating graffiti and street art in Ōtautahi and wider Aotearoa.
He wrote his PhD thesis on the performances of graffiti, street art and independent public art at the University of Canterbury, a challenge that strengthened his bonds with the city and, in some ways, with New Brighton, a village that has embraced colour and creativity.
Bottoms Up ... 10 of the Best South Island Pubs
Aotearoa's Underground Haunts, Rooftops and The In-betweens
From rooftop bars to underground haunts and hidden gems in-between, New Zealand has plenty of incredible spots hiding in our cities and towns. They may be a bit hard to find, but the best stuff takes a little effort, right?
Some Like It Hot: A Guide To New Zealand’s Best Hot Pools
Remedy your winter chills by submerging yourself in one of these dreamy (and super steamy) hot pools.
Christchurch's Secret Spaces and Places
10 Craft Beer Destinations To Add To Your South Island Getaway
Few things top the feeling of sampling a local craft beer while on holiday. Lucky for you, the South Island is brimming with places to get your small-batch fix.
Free Things To Do in Christchurch Ōtautahi
Even without spending a cent, you can enjoy the rich history and beautiful landscape that Christchurch has to offer.
7 Urban Hotels Worth Travelling For
New Brighton
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Sam & Caroline at The Burger Joint
7 South Island Road Trips to Add to Your Bucket List
Fill up the tank; a South Island road trip adventure awaits.
6 Café and Restaurant Interiors that will set your heart aflutter in Ōtautahi
Forget Pinterest, head to these Christchurch spots for major mood board inspo.
Crazy about Hazy? All about the stouts? Time to read our CHC Craft Beer Guide
Christchurch has a raft of excellent craft beer bars at its disposal and, quite frankly, that’s great news for locals and visitors alike. If you’re on the hunt for a bar that serves high quality brews with a similarly authentic vibe, we suggest having a perusal through our Christchurch Craft Beer Guide. We won’t claim it as definitive, but it's a bloody good attempt. Any visit to one of these top establishments will likely have you ordering another round faster than you can say ‘blimey, they’re crafty...’
8 Unexpected Things To Do in Christchurch
Get Acquainted at the Chef’s Table at these Christchurch Spots
Let's Celebrate Women in Hospitality
Stock Up On Vinyl At The 8 Best Record Stores In New Zealand
Give Spotify a rest and throw your money behind local artists and record retailers.
Get the Glow with Christchurch's Best Facials
Looking for the best facials in Christchurch? There’s no better time than the present to get your glow on with a treatment from one of the city's best facialists. With specialists in all corners of Christchurch, a facial is the perfect way to relax, rejuvenate and refresh. Catering to all skin-types, and genders alike, your next pamper session is sure to leave you feeling lit from within, while giving your skin the tender love and care that it needs.
Score The Inside Scoop On New Zealand’s Best Ice Cream And Gelato Spots
CHC Institutions We Love
Christchurch’s Art Galleries and Where To Grab a Drink Afterwards
From heritage spaces to dealer galleries, here are the best places to get your dose of art culture in Christchurch, and where to grab a drink afterwards.
9 Reasons You Should Visit North Canterbury's Cellar Doors
The North Canterbury wine region offers diverse and intriguing varieties and unexpected delights.
Get to Know the North Canterbury Wine Region
The North Canterbury wine region is a hidden gem for wine, food and relaxing accommodation — the perfect recipe for a long weekend. Surrounded by the Southern Alps, close to the sea and with fertile soil for a variety of growing opportunities, this close-to-Christchurch destination is a must-stay. Discover some of North Canterbury’s finest vineyards, ready and waiting for you to explore.
Drool-worthy Donut Spots You Need to Devour in Christchurch
From sprinkles to custard, Lyttelton to Wigram, Christchurch has plenty to offer in the donut scene.
Upgrade Your Home Cooking with the Best Craft Food Stores in Christchurch
Grocery Stores, Farmers' Markets & Local Growers
Snack Your Way Through 9 of the Best Baos in Christchurch
Where To Get Your American Food and Drink Fix in Christchurch
7 Must-shop Menswear Stores in Christchurch
The Christchurch menswear scene has graduated from jeans and a t-shirt, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
8 Places to Elevate Your Dining Experience
When was the last time you treated yourself to a slow dinner with friends and family or visited a restaurant that is a little bit special? We think it's about now.
Sweet or Savoury? Scope Our Definitive Guide to Christchurch's Best Scones
The humble scone is synonymous with New Zealand hospitality and a staple of our café culture.
Warm Your Winter Soul at the Cosiest Places in Christchurch
If the winter weather is keeping you curled up at home, we suggest warming up at some of our favourite cosy spots in Christchurch instead.
These 8 Christchurch Roasters Will Change the Way You Think about Coffee
Sip Your Way Through Our Guide To Kiwi-Made Spirits
From specialty gin to artisan whiskey, amp up your next cocktail party with our curated selection of homegrown spirits.
Where To Find The Best Architecture in Christchurch
Contemporary, Modernist, Gothic Revival, Renaissance, there’s no shortage of striking architecture to see in Christchurch.
Top Plant-Based Brunches in Christchurch
Plant-based brunches are settling into the Christchurch food scene, and we couldn’t be more excited to branch out and enjoy.
6 Unique Activities to Try in Christchurch
Whether you’re looking for a unique adventure for the whole family or a little R&R, you’ll find a host of unique activities in Christchurch.
Go Plastic-Free With These 10 NZ Homeware Brands
How to Spend the Perfect Night Out in Christchurch CBD
Dine Al Fresco at the Best Outdoor Restaurant Spots in Christchurch
Back Local These Holidays with Our Christchurch Shopping and Gifting Guide
Shopping local is a treat with so many offerings around Christchurch. Make a day of it and revel in the diverse range of shops, price points, and offerings, all while supporting the spirit of Ōtautahi.
Reply ‘STAB ME’ to Confirm
The Neatest Campgrounds in Canterbury
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or are only just getting into the thought of ‘roughing it’, Canterbury is spoiled for choice with the neatest campgrounds.
48 Hours Christchurch
The Modern Mess
Explore New Zealand's most beautiful street
A stroll down colourful, pedestrianised New Regent Street in Christchurch will instantly transport you to a bygone era.
Low and Slow from Christchurch to Tokyo
A Dram with Whisky Galore's Stella Fraser Milne
Unstoppable: Andy and Mia
Cool Hangs - Indigo & Provisions
Step inside the historic Boys’ High building in central Christchurch and you’ll find your way upstairs to Indigo & Provisions, a stunning retail space. Focussed on quality, the space has a great brand story for the curated fashion and homeware items that adorn the shelves. We caught up with owner/operator Dominic Ellett to hear more about the brand, his ethos, and his inspiration for the store.
SALT District
Mountain Biking is the New Golf
West End
Brunch in the 'Burbs with the Best Neighbourhood Cafés in Christchurch
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of your local neighbourhood café where familiar faces greet you from day to day and your regular order can be placed with a mere nod and a smile.
Dose up on Goodness, Here's 5 Places to Sink a Green Smoothie in Christchurch
Healthy, filling, nutritious, energising, the green smoothie is one craving not to feel guilty over.
Drool Your Way Through Christchurch's Finger-lickin' Fried Chicken Dishes
We've scoured Christchurch to find the best places to get your hands on the finger-lickin' fried chicken.
Pantries at the ready. Here's our Guide to Shopping without a supermarket
Whether you’re preparing a picnic, BBQ or just looking to stock up your fridge and pantry with items not from the supermarket, we have your guide to the independent butcheries, bakeries, delis, greengrocers and liquor stores in Christchurch.
Hospitality Hero
Christchurch Cafés Open on a Sunday to Stave off Your Work Week Blues
There’s no bigger bummer than a well earned weekend off rolling round and discovering your favourite Christchurch café is closed.
Five of the best: where to fill your own beer
Bring your own bottle? How about filling your own bottle - of delicious, fresh craft beer, that is.
Lunch Lady
Sharing is caring. The best places for shared plates
High Street
Port Lyttelton
Amberley and Waipara
Roses to Riches
Sweet & Savage
A Decade of Making It Raw
Make It Raw founder, Julia Brown, chats to us about making her delicious raw creations, balancing motherhood and what’s next for the family-run business.
A Guide to New Zealand's Coffee Roasters
