Live Like a Local: Discover Perfect Stays and Neat Spots Around Christchurch

If you want to experience the best of seaside living whilst visiting Christchurch, it’s hard to beat the village charms of Sumner. This two-bedroom stay is only two blocks from the beach, making everything in the area easily walkable, and you can soak up all the laid-back coastal vibes on offer. Speaking of laid-back, if you want to enjoy true relaxation whilst staying in Sumner, a visit to Face.it is a must. This holistic studio was opened by owner Agata in 2023 and is designed to uplift your body, mind, and soul.

Agata, originally from Poland, saw an opportunity to bring facial massages to Ōtautahi, including a Kobido treatment. This Japanese facial massage works deep below the skin’s surface and is known as a natural facelift. What could be better when you’re looking for some relaxation and you walk out looking years younger, win-win!

Warmth, comfort, and easy indoor-outdoor living are the key features of this character property, which is an easy stroll to Hagley Park North. Care and attention has been paid to the interior decor at this stay, and for lovers of period details, you’ll be delighted by the charm here. This parkside oasis is close to the heart of Merivale, a busy and buzzing suburb in Christchurch with plenty of shopping, hospitality and beauty services to keep any visitor to the area entertained.

After a morning or afternoon exploring, it’s always nice to head back to your accommodation for a holiday rest. We recommend picking up some treats from J’AIME to enjoy for dessert, we’re talking macarons, caneles and all kinds of colourful confectionery. Opened by co-owner Bridget O’Sullivan over 15 years ago, J’AIME is proud to have an all-female team behind its operation. Their Merivale Mall store is a popular haunt among locals and continues to go from strength to strength, thanks to the creativity and collaboration of the women behind it.

Located in the South Town district of the city centre, this penthouse stay offers stunning views across Christchurch and is perfectly situated to enjoy the very best the city has to offer. This stylish urban retreat is the ultimate combination of peace, privacy and convenience. It has everything you need to hunker down, but equally, you’re surrounded by some incredible Ōtautahi businesses and experiences to explore.

Staying in this epic apartment, you are just down the road from The Welder, a hub that brings together a variety of eateries and health and wellness studios. You can’t go wrong at The Welder, but if your sweet tooth is winning out on the day, immediately head to Dhi Ferrari Cakes. Owned and operated by Brazilian chocolatier Dhi Ferrari, this pâtisserie has a loyal local following, and Dhi’s desserts are some of the best in town. The cakes and desserts are all influenced by Brazilian flavours Dhi grew up with and holds a special place in his heart, along with French and Italian influences from his training. So grab a slice (or more!) and head back to your penthouse and enjoy every bite on the balcony while enjoying the scenes around you.

Designed by renowned architect Kerry Mason, this spacious three-bedroom stay on the edge of the city centre and close to Hagley Park, is just what you need to feel like a home away from home while visiting Christchurch. With flexible living spaces, secure parking, and thoughtful design throughout, it’s the perfect option for families, groups, or those travelling for work who want a comfortable base.

Being just off Papanui Road, staying at this loft-style townhouse gives you the best of both worlds. Wander to the left and you’ve got the city centre, or head right into Merivale. But even closer than both of these, you’ll come to Gatherings, one of Christchurch’s most celebrated restaurants and known for its innovative but grounded approach to culinary excellence. Founding chef Alex Davies passionately supports local producers, and the small dining room feels like you’re being welcomed into someone’s home. The fact that chefs from around the city and the country choose to eat here should be recommendation enough to enjoy a meal here whilst you’re in Ōtautahi.

If you are a fan of the finer things in life, booking a stay at the Eve Apartment - OGB Suite is a must! This luxurious city escape is located in the historic Old Government Building and overlooks Cathedral Square. A beautifully designed apartment that pairs heritage charm with modern comfort, featuring elegant interiors, a private balcony, and sweeping city views. With top dining spots, boutique shopping, and cultural attractions just steps away, it’s the perfect base for those wanting to experience the best of central Ōtautahi in style.

There are so many neat spots to choose from close by, including an array of options down New Regent Street, mere metres away. Our top recommendation if you’re feeling like a dinner to match your luxe apartment stay is Odeon, run by local hospo legend Shafeeq Ismail. Inspired by Mediterranean dining culture, opt for the Just Feed Me Menu and let Shafeeq and his expert team wow you with a number of small and larger plates. While you’re waiting for each new dish to appear, take in your surroundings, where every interior decor detail has been thoughtfully considered to create an elegant dining experience that will make your visit to Christchurch extra special.

Tucked away in a peaceful pocket of the city centre, this modern townhouse offers the ideal blend of comfort and convenience. With an easy open-plan living area and four spacious double bedrooms upstairs, there’s plenty of room for families and groups to get the most out of this stay.

Close by to this Peterborough Hideaway, you’ll find Pomeroy’s Old Brewery Inn and Little Poms on Kilmore Street, two stalwarts on Christchurch’s hospitality scene. Pomeroy’s is an English-style pub with epic pints and food to match, and was founded nearly 25 years ago by Steve and Victoria Pomeroy, with their daughter Ava joining the team soon after. A decade ago, their cafe, Little Poms, was added to the mix, and together they’ve built a warm, long-standing community, with some team members part of the journey since day one. Known for their delicious food menus, great coffee, craft beer, and consistently welcoming service, both are among many locals’ favourite spots.