Christchurch is the third most populated city in New Zealand and the largest on the South Island. It is a great starting point for a South Island road trip. One day in Christchurch is the perfect amount of time to see the main sites. Christchurch is believed to have first been settled in 1250 by the Maori people. Present-day, it is a thriving metropolis with a few sites to see.
Where to Stay in Christchurch
We opted to stay at the Commodore Airport Hotel since we would be flying out in the morning and only had one day in Christchurch. This ended up being a fantastic choice! This hotel felt like a five-star hotel without the price tag. The employees were very friendly, and the room was large. At check-in, we were given two complimentary drinks. The facility also had sports courts, a pool, a nice outdoor patio area, and a complimentary airport shuttle. It cost us $83/night.
How to Get to Christchurch
Christchurch contains the second largest airport in New Zealand. Although most of the flights come from Australia and New Zealand, there are also a few from Asian countries. We opted to fly into Christchurch from Auckland. Christchurch is also sometimes found on cruise ship itineraries. Other ways to get to Christchurch include driving in from other cities or catching a bus or a train from other areas within New Zealand.
Transportation Around Christchurch
There are a few bus lines around Christchurch and Uber is readily available. However, I would recommend renting a car, especially if you are going to be traveling around the South Island. It is very easy to get around Christchurch by car and then you are able to see more of the hidden gems of Christchurch. For 10 days, our rental car cost us about $200 total.
What to See in One Day in Christchurch
Day 1
Black and White Coffee Cartel
Cost: $
Hours: Mon-Fri: 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun: 8am-3pm
Start your one day in Christchurch with an amazing breakfast at the Black and White Coffee Cartel. This coffee shop serves some delightful breakfast options and coffee. Meat pies are a popular breakfast option in New Zealand. Flat whites and chai teas pair well with the meat pies. There are several locations throughout New Zealand.
Victoria Clock Tower
Cost: Free
Right next to the Black and White Coffee Cartel is the Victoria Clock tower. This clock tower is listed as a New Zealand heritage site. Built in 1897 for Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, it now is a focal site of Christchurch. It is worth walking around the corner to see this iconic building.
Canterbury Museum
Cost: Free
Hours: April-Sept: 9am-5pm, Oct-March: 9am-5:30pm
After fueling up for the day, head to the Canterbury Museum. This museum is located in central Christchurch. There are a variety of collections such as bird hall and Asian art, as well as exhibits of the Arctic and earthquakes. Originally established in 1867, this museum is now registered as a historic place.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Cost: Free
Hours: 7am-9pm
After the museum, take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens. Founded in 1863, this 52-acre area contains various sites to see. Right outside of the Canterbury Museum is the Peacock Fountain. This fountain has moved around a bit and is one of the major photographed spots in Christchurch. It has been controversial due to its “gaudiness,” but is beloved by many. Filled with many species of plants, make sure to stop at the Cunningham House Conservatory. Do not miss the Central Rose Garden, the first public rose garden in New Zealand, that contains 250 varieties of roses.
Monster Chicken
Cost: $$
Hours: 11am-10pm
Grab lunch at Monster Chicken, the perfect place to satisfy a fried chicken craving. This is Korean-style fried chicken and considered the best fried chicken in Christchurch. There are about 10 different seasonings visitors can choose from, and it is cooked to order.
Brockworth Street Art Gallery
Cost: Free
Hours: Open 24 hours
After lunch, head across the street to the Brockworth Street Art Gallery. This alley contains a series of murals along the railroad tracks. It is not a huge gallery, but it is worth taking a quick walk through, especially if you love street art.
International Antarctic Center
Cost: $36
Hours: 9am-4:30pm
If you have time, visit the International Antarctic Center, located near the airport. Founded in 1990, this is the center for the United States, New Zealand, and Italy Antarctica programs. Visitors can visit the Antarctic Center and see Antarctic exhibits, take a ride on a Hagglund, and see penguins and huskies.
Nando’s
Cost: $$
Hours: 10am-10pm
Finish off one day in Christchurch by grabbing dinner at Nando’s. Nando’s is a Portuguese chicken joint with delicious side options. Their Peri-Peri chili sauce is what many people crave. Founded in South Africa, there are over 1000 different Nando’s located across 35 different countries.
Drexels
Cost: $$
Hours: Mon-Fri: 6:30am-2pm, Sat-Sun: 7am-2pm
If you need another breakfast option, Drexels is the perfect place to get a traditional American breakfast, and it is served all day. Their pancakes were delicious, and it is the perfect place to grab food before catching a flight.
More Than One Day in Christchurch?
There are also several day trip options if you have more than one day in Christchurch. If Christchurch is the first stop on your South Island Adventure, head south to Queenstown, or north to Nelson.
Head to Canterbury for Wine Tasting
Technically, Christchurch is located in the Canterbury region. However, the wine region spreads across the area and is one of the best wine regions in New Zealand. Many wineries are located just north of Christchurch and a few to the east. It is an easy opportunity to sample New Zealand wine.
Take a day trip To Hanmer Springs
Mostly known for its thermal pools, spending the day at Hanmer Springs makes for a relaxing day. Visitors can opt to relax in the hot springs, take a ride on the waterslides, go ice skating, or partake in a spa treatment. During the summer months, opt to go jet boating or bungee jumping!
One Day in Christchurch is the perfect amount of time exploring this New Zealand city. It is a great addition to a budget-friendly New Zealand itinerary.
