Explore

the Garden city

christchurch

established

the iconic all-black uniform with the silver fern became permanently established in christchurch

marine

home to hector's dolphins - smallest and rarest marine dolphins on Earth

home

one of only five official gateway cities to Antarctica in the world

official

new zealands oldest established city

nature

The city holds over 740 public parks

14°C

Average Temp

sept

getting to know christchurch

Escape to the garden city

Christchurch is the ultimate gateway to New Zealand’s spectacular South Island. Positioned perfectly on the east coast where the rolling Canterbury Plains meet the dramatic volcanic valleys of the Banks Peninsula.
 
Officially crowned “The Garden City,” it boasts one of the highest ratios of urban green space in the world, anchored by the massive, 165-hectare Hagley Park where you can glide down the Avon River on a traditional flat-bottomed punt surrounded by ancient forest trees.
 
Beyond its greenery the city holds a sacred place in sporting folklore as the historic cradle of rugby history; the world-famous New Zealand All Blacks played their first-ever international home test match right here in 1904. A legendary clash that permanently established the fearsome, iconic all-black uniform and silver fern on the global stage.
 
Today, Christchurch seamlessly blends this rich heritage with a vibrant energy. Inviting you to explore gourmet food stalls at the bustling Riverside Market, soak in beachfront hot pools at New Brighton or surf world-class swells at the hidden volcanic inlet of Taylors Mistake. It is the perfect destination for epic alpine road trips and polar adventures that will leave you absolutely desperate to visit.
 

Useful information

christchurch

Things to do

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

The public transport system in Greater Christchurch, managed by Metro Christchurch, provides an efficient, interconnected and highly accessible network across Christchurch, Selwyn, and Waimakariri. Operating out of a centralised Bus Interchange in the CBD. The system is designed to seamlessly move commuters, visitors and event-goers through a combination of urban bus routes and scenic ferry connections.

For information visit Home | Metro Christchurch

COACH TRANSFERS

If you’re planning to travel beyond Christchurch, Intercity New Zealand offers coach services to various regional and rural destinations. You can choose between a direct journey transfer or a hop-on hop-off ticket. For more information visit New Zealand’s #1 National Bus Network | InterCity® .

christchurch

Image Gallery

christchurch family attractions

Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Flights – Garden City Helicopters

Experience breathtaking aerial views of Ōtautahi Christchurch and the Banks Peninsula volcanoes with Garden City Helicopters. Elevate the adventure with options for snow landings on the Southern Alps, high-speed jet boating or scenic winery tours.

For more information visit: Christchurch Scenic Helicopter Flights – Garden City Helicopters | Activities & Day Trips in Christchurch – Canterbury, New Zealand

Christchurch Adventure Park

Christchurch Adventure Park is the ultimate high-octane playground tucked into the pine forest of the Port Hills. Fly through the valley on a thrilling dual zipline tour, tear down world-class machine-built mountain bike trails or catch breathtaking alpine views from the massive chairlift. Whether you are chasing extreme gravity lines or relaxing with a cold drink on the forest café deck, there is something for everyone.

For more information visit: Mountain Biking | Ziplining | Sightseeing | Walking & Hiking | Cafe & Bar | Christchurch Adventure Park

christchurch sightseeing

Canterbury Trails

Meet your ultimate New Zealand adventure crew at Canterbury Trails! This elite roster of passionate local guides features everything from a two-time Olympian to multi-sport racers and wine industry experts ready to share their secret spots with you. Whether you are craving deep-wilderness treks through Arthur’s Pass, luxury vineyard tasting flights or whale-watching in Kaikōura. These insiders turn a standard trip into the private tour of a lifetime!

For more information visit: Luxury Guided Tours in Christchurch & South Island | Canterbury Trails

Christchurch Short Walks

Hit the trails with Christchurch’s ultimate guide to the city’s top five short walks! Lace up for rugged volcanic coastal paths and lush native bush, all sitting just minutes from the central business district. From spotting wild penguins along the historic Godley Head military track to catching jaw-dropping Southern Alps views from the Quarry Rim loop, this insider guide reveals the absolute best scenery, trail times, and hidden coffee spots for your next quick hiking escape!

For more information visit: Best short walks with amazing views in Christchurch | ChristchurchNZ.com

christchurch Restaurants & bars

Gin Gin

Gin Gin is a boutique cocktail bar tucked into the historic, pastel-coloured buildings of Christchurch’s iconic New Regent Street. Boasting vibrant indoor decor and intimate seating nooks, it delivers an atmosphere perfectly matched to its creative world-class gin cocktail menu and seasonal shared plates. Open seven days a week from afternoon until late, it is the ultimate spot for an elegant afternoon drink or a late-night cocktail escape in the heart of the CBD.
 

For more information visit: HOME – Gin Gin

Rollickin Gelato

Rollickin Gelato is home to Christchurch’s ultimate house-made organic gelato, sorbets and late-night dessert dates! With 15 daily flavours, including gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options. They drop an exciting new limited-edition specialty flavour every single week. Rocking great playlists and a flowing chocolate tap, you can satisfy your sweet tooth until late across three vibrant locations: Cashel Street, New Regent Street and Riccarton!
 
 
Featured Packages

INCLUDING the TEST MATCH EXPERIENCE

Tour MAB

SECOND & THIRD TESTS - VISITING WELLINGTON, QUEENSTOWN & CHRISTCHURCH

A truly unforgettable three-location package featuring official tickets to the final two Women’s Lions Tests. Combining New Zealand’s rugby heartlands with the breathtaking beauty of Queenstown on a landmark tour that will make history.

From £6,995pp

Tour JAA

FIRST & SECOND TEST & INTERNATIONAL XV - VISITING AUCKLAND, HAMILTON, ROTORUA, WELLINGTON

A truly memorable four-location package featuring official tickets to the first two Women’s Lions Tests. Combining New Zealand’s iconic rugby venues with the culture, scenery and hospitality of Auckland, Wellington, Rotorua and Hamilton on a historic tour.

From £7,395pp

Tour CAA

THREE TESTS & INTERNATIONAL XV - VISITING AUCKLAND, HAMILTON, ROTORUA, WELLINGTON, QUEENSTOWN AND CHRISTCHURCH

A once-in-a-lifetime New Zealand adventure featuring all three Women’s Lions Test matches, the Invitational XV fixture and five iconic destinations. Blending elite rugby action with breath taking scenery, authentic cultural experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

From £9,995pp

Day Trip to Adelaide

Wednesday 30 July - Departs 9:30 AM / Returns 17:00 PM

The Barossa is in South Australia, about 70km north-east of Adelaide, the state’s capital city.   Your trip will include a visit of the city centre, The State Library of South Australia and lunch at a local wine bar and kitchen. 

The State Library is the information heart of South Australia, located in the North Terrace Cultural Precinct.  You will have the opportunity to explore all three buildings: the award-winning contemporary Catherine Helen Spence Wing with its iconic glass foyer, the Mortlock Wing with its 19th century Victorian splendour, and the 1861 heritage listed Institute Building.

Sweeping stadium views, stylish bar and lounge, premium menu and extensive wine list.  Bespoke Wine Bar & Kitchen is one of Adelaide’s most impressive dining experiences.

Extending across level three of Oval Hotel and into the iconic Adelaide Oval, Bespoke’s unique setting makes a stunning backdrop lunch.

Executive Chef Daniel Simpson’s modern Australian menu brings bold flavours to life through fresh, seasonal produce.  Two drinks are included, and you may choose from house wine, beer or a soft drink.

After lunch you will be transferred to the North Terrace, Adelaide city where you can choose to spend your time either at Rundle Mall, The Art Gallery of South Australia or South Australian Museum.

 

PLEASE NOTE:  We have been advised that the carpet is being replaced in the Mortlock Chamber (section of the library) and we are now unable to conduct tours through this section during July so we will amend the Private tour of the State Library slightly and now include access to the basement (old & rare artifacts storage) which is an area of the library usually inaccessible to the public. 

 

Private 60 minute tour of State Library of South Australia | 30 July 2025 – 11:00am

Guests will have the opportunity to explore one of South Australia’s great institutions and take a look behind the shelves. An expert librarian will take you on a walk sharing stories of how the State Library began. Your experience starts at the historic Adelaide Circulating Library to learn the history of the building. By 1861, the collection of books held there was to became the first public library in South Australia. The Adelaide Circulating Library has been used in the past as a backdrop to several movies including Shine and Gallipoli. Continue your way to the basement to see some of the interesting old & rare artifacts housed in the library. Discover how the state’s most important treasures are maintained in the state-of-the-art storage and how the preservations team cares for the collection. 

Legends that have joined us on previous experiences