The Best Ice Cream & Gelato in Christchurch (2026)
The Best Pizza in Christchurch: 10 Spots for ‘03 Pizza Devotees (2026)
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.
Things to Do in Akaroa: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide (2026)
The Best Japanese Restaurants in Christchurch (2026)
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 Hairdressers in Christchurch (2026)
Fall in love with your locks with a visit to one of these top salons in Ōtautahi
Christchurch Food Guide: Chef Alex Davies' Favourite Restaurants
The Best Indian Restaurants in Christchurch (2026)
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 Op Shops & Second-Hand Clothing Stores in Christchurch (2026)
The neatest second-hand clothing finds in the ‘03.
The Best Shopping in Christchurch: A Local’s Guide (2026)
The Best Brunch in Christchurch: 10 Cafés to Try (2026)
Brunch enthusiasts, rejoice! Neat Places has compiled your weekend hit-list for the best brunch in Christchurch. From the caffeine hit to the perfectly poached eggs, you'll find somewhere just right for that next weekend brunch outing.
8 Christmas Destinations to Book Now Across New Zealand
Neat in the Neighbourhood: Your Guide to Sydenham
Where to Find the Cosiest Cocktails This Winter
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
In a world increasingly dominated by screen time, many New Zealanders are seeking out something more tangible. Pottery classes are filling up months in advance, knitting needles are clicking back into fashion, and creative workshops are becoming social occasions in their own right.
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
This one goes out to all the good boys and girls of 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
If you’re still wondering why none of us can shut up about how obsessed we are with Ōtautahi Christchurch (shiny stadium aside), then this year’s wave of new arrivals should help paint a picture.
The Naveya & Sloane Guide to Ōtautahi’s Central City Gems
For life’s significant moments and milestones, a special piece of jewellery is the perfect way to celebrate and remember for years to come. Homegrown Aotearoa jewellers, Naveya & Sloane, are experts in gems that provide a bit of sparkle, and spark memories of a meaningful time in your life, from engagements and weddings to new babies, big birthdays, and more.
A Day Well Spent At The Tannery
A Neat Day in New Brighton: What to See, Eat & Do
Live Like a Local: Discover Perfect Stays and Neat Spots Around Christchurch
Fill Your Cup: The Complete Wellness Guide to Ōtautahi Christchurch
First things first, we’re not here to be your health guru (we love a burger, we love a bowl of fries). However, what we do promote is partaking in daily practices that encourage a sense of thriving and jiving.
ICYMI: New and Neat Openings Across Aotearoa
11 Walks to Do in Canterbury and Where to Reward Yourself After
There’s nothing quite like getting outside and touching some grass. Great for the mental health, great for the quads.
Our Kid-Friendly Guide for Your Next Family Day Out in Christchurch
Finding activities and destinations to keep every member of the family content, from the youngest to the oldest (yes, we’re looking at you adults) is no easy feat. Sometimes it can feel easier to stay home, but cabin fever can soon hit, so to help you out in moments like this, we’ve compiled a guide of parent and kid-friendly experiences in Ōtautahi Christchurch sure to delight on all levels.
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
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.
Comfort in a Bowl: Where to Find the Best Soups in Christchurch
Would it really be winter without soup? Whether it’s silky pumpkin, a hearty bowl of Italian minestrone, or flavour-packed phở, there’s something about soup that transcends trend and geography.
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.
Plate to Play: Where to Dine Near Christchurch's New Court Theatre
To celebrate and welcome this new state-of-the-art theatre to the inner city’s Performing Arts Precinct, we’ve put together a guide of all the best places you can eat and drink before and after a show.
Where to Find the Best Baked Goods in Christchurch
Not Eggs Benny: 10 Interesting Brunch Spots in Christchurch
The Hunt for 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
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.
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.
Meet and Greet: Barkeepers of St Asaph Block
On any given week, St Asaph Street comes alive with fun and creative happenings, drawing a lively buzz to the neighbourhood. This area between Fitzgerald Ave and Barbadoes Street has earned itself a reputation for its inclusive and down-to-earth bar and nightlife scene, where local musicians and artists take centre stage.
From sharing how they started out to revealing their hopes for Ōtautahi Christchurch’s future, here’s what Feather from Darkroom, Megan and Richard from Space Academy, and Lois from Scoundrel had to say.
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.
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
Regular visitors to Brooker Ave in Christchurch’s Red Zone will have noticed some changes recently, with the establishment of the Te Kohanga Taiao Sensory Nature Play Park. Nestled within restoration plantings in the Avon-Ōtākaro Forest Park, this new accessible sensory nature space was made possible thanks to a partnership between Hummingbird Coffee Roasters, The Green Lab and the Christchurch City Council. These two businesses have gone above and beyond when it comes to Christchurch’s regeneration post-earthquakes. This latest collaboration saw Hummingbird donate $60,000 to The Green Lab, who, as environmental green space experts, have worked their magic on what was once a deserted residential playground site. They have thoughtfully revived and designed a nature haven that focuses on sustainability, accessibility and biodiversity.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Pierside Developers Robbie & Chris Harris
Robbie and Chris Harris are the city's most under-the-radar developers. However, soon, there will be no hiding from the most exciting and ambitious development in New Brighton in decades: Pierside, the seaside suburb's new hospitality, market and entertainment hub. We chatted with Robbie about their backgrounds, New Brighton’s assets, commercial past and the vision.
10 Top Spots For A Dry July Drink In Christchurch
11 Cracking Cabinets in Christchurch
Better than New: Finding the Sparkle in Secondhand with Nifty’s Rosie Carroll
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.
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.
The Wine Bars Winning Over Christchurch Ōtautahi
Whether you prefer a pinot or crave a cabernet, we’ve got your guide to the neatest wine bars winning over Ōtautahi locals and visitors alike.
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
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
Jenna Ingram is a Canadian-born, New Zealand-raised artist, mother, occasional MC/singer, and keen gardener who is slightly obsessed with growing and pickling pickles. She’s also the co-owner and Director of Fiksate Gallery, New Zealand's leading Urban Art gallery. We chatted to Jenna about her experiences in New Brighton and what makes it special.
Shafeeq Ismail's Favourite Christchurch Food Spots
Chef Shafeeq Ismail gives us an insight into some of his favourite food spots in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Christchurch's Finest Places To Go For a Cocktail
Elevate Your Lunch in Christchurch's CBD
The Best Christchurch Spots For An Iced Drink This Summer
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
If there’s one thing we can be certain of, it’s that New Zealand’s restaurant scene is up there with the best. Whether it’s cheap eats or silver service, our country really does have it all. Our Neat Places team has taken the time to each pick their absolute favourite (or two!) places for dinner across the country and their reasoning behind each selection. Expect casual eateries and breweries to Italian pasta houses and Asian eats - there really is quite the range.
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
If the thought of planning your Christmas Day menu sends you into a more frazzled than festive state, we’re here to let you know that you needn’t go it alone. We’ve rounded up Christchurch’s very best grocers, florists, bakers, butchers and more to help you spend less time in the kitchen and more time at the table.
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
Cam Burgess is the co-owner and brewer of Southpaw Beers, a New Brighton brewery that's currently brewing in Hornby South for the time being. However, don’t let that fool you; Southpaw is New Brighton through and through, and their tagline, 'bringing flavour home', is a nod to their desire to open a brewery in New Brighton, where Cam grew up and where he and his partner Penny now raise their two boys Paeroa and Atakura. We chatted with Cam about his Brighton memories and what he loves about living in this staunch coastal suburb.
Our Pick of the Tastiest Veggie Burgers in Christchurch
Ask a kid what their favourite food is, and you’re bound to get a simple answer: a burger. Ask a grown-up, and who knows what answer you’ll get, but in all honesty, there’s really that kid within most of us who finds digging their teeth into a good burger a satisfaction unlike anything else.
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
The Emerging Organic Wine Brands of Waipara, North Canterbury
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
Venture Out: A Day Trip from Christchurch in Every Direction
Culinary Inspirations: Behind the Scenes with Sweet Soul Pâtisserie's Rea Scur
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
For night owls in search of a cosy corner to enjoy excellent coffee, dessert or cake, Christchurch has a few hidden gems perfect for enjoying leisurely evenings with great company.
Connect With Your Core At The Best Pilates Studios In Christchurch
Tired of lifting weights, sweating out in a HIIT session or just looking to shake up your fitness routine? A low-impact (yet still highly effective) Pilates class might be what you are after. Here are our picks of 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
A taste of Mexico in Christchurch: The city's best Mexican restaurants
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
Put on your flannel and get ready to explore. This South Island city is teeming with the best things to do in autumn.
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
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
People watching and view gazing are among life’s small pleasures, and there’s nothing quite like walking into your favourite café and seeing the prime table empty and beckoning you. Now while this may seem like a bit of an exaggeration, anyone who has ever ended up seated by the bathroom or a swinging kitchen door will be nodding their heads in agreement.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Samantha Fay
Meet Samantha Fay, a textile and fibre artist who calls New Brighton, Christchurch Ōtautahi home. Here is her guide to this beachside suburb.
Best Urban Wine Experiences in New Zealand
Catherine & Lin from New Brighton Community Gardens
Best Things To Do In Christchurch This Spring
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
The feeling of cracking open a cold beverage after a hard day on the ski fields is tough to beat. Whether it’s while soaking those sore muscles in a hot tub, or changing gears for a big night out, it always feels like a drink well earned. Even more so if it’s freezing outside.
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
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
Bottoms Up ... 10 of the Best South Island Pubs
Pack up the car, gather a group of mates and most importantly designate a sober driver… it’s time to embark on a tour of the South Island.
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
Christchurch's Secret Spaces and Places
There’s something thrilling about discovering a secret place. Whether it be a little speakeasy underground or a garden not on any map, it’s a gift for you to enjoy.
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
In the UK, the term ‘city-break’ is frequently used to describe a weekend away visiting the European city of the moment, exploring everything on offer and most often staying in boutique accommodation. Now, we may be thousands of miles away from being able to achieve a casual few days in a European city, but here in New Zealand, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to urban hotels that are worth travelling around the country for.
New Brighton
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Sam & Caroline at The Burger Joint
We shifted to New Brighton 10 years ago. Caroline moved to New Zealand from England 25 years ago and has always dreamed of living by the beach. We bought a little cottage in South New Brighton and live there with our teenage daughter Lola, two dogs and three cats. Our eldest son, Mali, recently moved out to live with friends but stayed local.
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
8 Unexpected Things To Do in Christchurch
Take the lesser known track and try our list of unexpected places to visit in Christchurch.
Get Acquainted at the Chef’s Table at these Christchurch Spots
Let's Celebrate Women in Hospitality
To mark International Women's Day, we reached out to five women who live and breathe hospitality in Christchurch. These women put in the hard yards, work tirelessly (dishes and all) and have the energy and stamina to do hospo day in day out with a smile in tow. We have massive respect for that.
Amongst their answers a common thread emerges. These Women - sommieliers to gelato makers - love connecting with people. It is inspiring to hear how they chose their path (or rather it choosing them in some cases) and they've shared some tips for budding hospo wāhine out there.
Stock Up On Vinyl At The 8 Best Record Stores In New Zealand
Tick Off Your Reading List At New Zealand’s Independent Bookshops
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
Still going strong after 10 plus years, and there's a whole multitude of reasons why.
Christchurch’s Art Galleries and Where To Grab a Drink Afterwards
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.
9 Reasons You Should Visit North Canterbury's Cellar Doors
The North Canterbury wine region offers diverse and intriguing varieties and unexpected delights.
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
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.
These 8 Christchurch Roasters Will Change the Way You Think about Coffee
Christchurch’s coffee roasters are the ones to watch. With established roasteries and new players popping up on the scene, the South Island’s biggest city is competing with the best of ‘em.
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.
Sip Your Way Through Our Guide To Kiwi-Made 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.
7 Unique Date Ideas in Christchurch
Whether you've just met on Hinge or been together longer than The Rolling Stones, here are a few ideas for date night that isn't dinner and a movie.
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
