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.
Christchurch Food Guide: Alex Davies of Gatherings
Chef Alex Davies gives us his insight into some of the best places for food in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Fresh Hop Season: Local Christchurch Breweries Worth a Visit
There’s a tasty, fleeting, window each year when hops take a skip and a jump straight from the vine to the brew. That window, where this punchy base ingredient remains unprocessed, results in fresh, flavourful brews that a handful of independent breweries are making the most of.
Set Tails A-Wagging: Dog-Friendly Places in Ōtautahi Christchurch
12 Hours Christchurch
The best things to see, eat, and do in Christchurch
The Akaroa Road Trip: Exploring the Town & Neat Stops Along the Way
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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 11 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.
‘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.
8 Christchurch Cafés Serving a Matcha Made in Heaven
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.
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
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
Every year people around the country commit to being alcohol free for Dry July. For some the motivation is to raise money for charity, for others, it’s more of a personal challenge and one that can often lead to longer-term lifestyle changes. In years gone by this might have meant ordering a soda with lime when you met friends at the pub on the weekend. But the times they are a-changin’ – and with growing demand for more interesting and varied alcohol-free beverages, you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice if you’re dipping your toe into teetotalism this Dry July 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.
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.
Pedro’s Secret Vegan Picks in Christchurch
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
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
Ashburton is the New Black - A New Look Guide to this Mid Canterbury Town
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
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
No matter the weather it's always the right time for a cocktail. It could be the height of summer, the sun is shining, you’re with good friends and fruity concoctions are flowing. Or perhaps the temperatures have taken a dive, cosy vibes are key and your drink of choice also has the job of providing some much-needed warmth.
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
Is it getting hot in here or has El Niño finally come to town? While sticking your head in the freezer all day may be a tempting solution, we’ve got some slightly more interesting ideas that don’t involve frozen peas.
Where You'd Rather Be: The Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Christchurch
Neatest Places in Christchurch for an Ice Cream
On a hot day in Christchurch, there’s no better way to cool down than with a delicious iced delight.
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
Rolleston Fields: Experience the New Side to Rolleston
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
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
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
Your Guide to Second-Hand Clothes Shopping in Christchurch
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.
From Novice To Advanced Yogi, These Are The Best Yoga Studios in Christchurch
In the heart of the city and the surrounding suburbs, there are several specialist yoga studios that know their downward dog from their chaturanga. Here are our picks of Christchurch's best places to practice yoga.
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.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Matt Morris, The Urban Monk
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.
Our Pick of 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!
How to Slow Down in Ashburton: A Guide to Elevating The Drive Through
From gua buns to boutiques, artistry and espresso, there’s more to Ashburton than meets the eye. So next time you pass through this Mid Canterbury town, put your foot on the brakes and try some curated exploration. You’ll leave feeling better off for it.
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
To Methven & Beyond: A Weekend Getaway Guide
Mid-Canterbury Adventures & Where to Treat Yourself Afterwards
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.
From Udon Noodles to Yakitori: Here are Our Picks for Christchurch's Best Japanese Restaurants
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.
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
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
All around New Zealand, we are blessed with incredible wine experiences right in our own urban backyard. No matter your vino preference from a classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc to a Central Otago Pinot Noir or perhaps an interesting blend from a far away European vineyard, you don’t have to travel far to sample and enjoy a glass or two (responsibly of course!).
Catherine & Lin from New Brighton Community Gardens
Best Things To Do In Christchurch This Spring
Where to Find Christchurch’s Best Burgers
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.
A Guide to Shopping and One of a Kind Fashion in Christchurch
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 ... 9 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?
South Town
Named for its position at the bottom edge of the city's main centre, Christchurch's South Town offers a pretty fantastic mix of eateries and shops.
Made up of a collection of boutique cafés, bars and workspaces, the area has seen a massive renewal since the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes. An ambitious group of young owner/operators have flocked to the area to combine forces and bring a bit of quirk to the centre city’s southern suburb.
If it’s coffee you’re after, this is the place to come. Those who excel at roasting have set up camp here and are followed religiously by those who can’t start the day without a cup of joe.
Some Like It Hot: A Guide To New Zealand’s Best 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
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
Bygone days of seaside prosperity linger in the eastern suburb of New Brighton, but don’t be surprised if you fall for its current bohemian charm. With newly emerging hospitality, He Puna Taimoana hot pools and 18 kilometres of sandy coastline, New Brighton has a distinctive appeal.
Having famously gained popularity in the 1960s - when New Brighton was the only shopping centre open on a Saturday in Christchurch - crowds would routinely flock to the shops where they could pick up their wares, an ice cream and stroll along the pier. Nowadays, locals and visitors alike can still be seen meandering down the longest pier in Australasia and breathing in some of that salty sea air.
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
8 Unexpected Things To Do 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.
Great hair days on repeat with Christchurch’s best hairdressers
Fall in love with your locks with a visit to one of these top salons in Ōtautahi
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.
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
Licking back an ice cream on a sweltering hot day is a Kiwi pastime we all know and love. As far as summer favourites go, it's up there with long balmy nights, beach days and sausage sizzles. Whether your vice is hokey pokey, mint choc chip or cookies and cream, the list goes on.
So it's only fair we save you the hassle of scouting out the best spots to pick up a scoop (or three) when the temperature rises. From North to South, these are the best ice cream and gelato shops in New Zealand.
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
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.
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
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
American food spans many cultures, locations and cuisines, making it an exciting and varied cuisine.
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
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.
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.
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
6 Unique Activities to Try in Christchurch
Go Plastic-Free With These 10 NZ Homeware Brands
How to Spend the Perfect Night Out in Christchurch CBD
Here's your guide to the Christchurch CBD after dark.
Dine Al Fresco at the Best Outdoor Restaurant Spots in Christchurch
Whether you’re looking to settle in for an evening of people watching or prefer to enjoy your long black in al fresco solitude, keep scrolling for where to find outdoor dining 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.
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.
Reply ‘STAB ME’ to Confirm
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
7 Places Every Brunch Enthusiast Needs to Tick off in Christchurch
Unstoppable: Andy and Mia
Cool Hangs - Indigo & Provisions
SALT District
Mountain Biking is the New Golf
City North
West End
With landmarks like the Arts Centre and the historic Canterbury Museum, there's plenty to love about Christchurch's West End. Walk down from The Terrace towards the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens and you'll see what all the fuss is about. From the tram tracks to the collective of cultural hotspots, this is a neighbourhood that is quintessentially Canterbury. As the central city has been rebuilt after the 2011 earthquakes, there's been plenty invested in West End - from the building restorations to swanky new office blocks. Dive into the restaurants and cafes tucked into ground floor haunts, and while away a morning exploring.
Sydenham
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
Whoever first coined the phrase “sharing is caring” was clearly a good person to head out to dinner with.
High Street
Amberley and Waipara
Port Lyttelton
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
Not all coffee is created equal, so in our guide to New Zealand’s coffee roasters, we pay homage to those roasting, brewing, and serving it the best. You’ll find micro-roasters rubbing shoulders with the country’s biggest producers.
