One of the biggest cities in New Zealand, Christchurch is brimming with wonderful activities and places to explore. The city is known as the “Garden City” and offers a mix of historic charm and post-earthquake revitalisation. Christchurch attractions include wonderful marine life sightings – NZ fur seals, white-flippered penguins, and Hector Dolphins. To ensure a memorable group getaway, we have compiled a list of the top Christchurch Attractions.
Take a Gondola Ride
This is an unmissable experience that sees you experience fantastic views of Christchurch and Lyttelton Harbour. Glimpse the snow-capped Southern Alps, sprawling Canterbury Plains and the sparkling waters of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Once you reach the summit, there are so many things to keep you entertained – walking, mountain biking and exploring the souvenir shop. You can stop and get a snack or meal at the Red Rock Café, with stunning 360-degree views.
Zip-line Experience Adventure
If your group is ready for thrills, zip-lining at Christchurch Adventure Park is a must. Fly on high-speed zip-lines, soaring more than 518 feet with fantastic views of the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean. You’ll have zip-line guides and fitted protective equipment to ensure safety during this fun-filled activity.
Bungy Jump Above the Waiau River
Located 90 minutes from Christchurch, Hanmer Hot Springs is the place to be for adrenaline junkies. There, you can take a 35-metre free fall to the surging river below amidst stunning scenery – it’s a leap of faith that’s well worth it. Professional staff will brief you on jump options available; you will be provided certificates and t-shirts after your big jump. Now, that’s something to brag about on social media.
Sunrise Sea Kayaking Safari
Take an early morning kayaking trip in stunning turquoise waters. Paddle through a tranquil marine reserve, catch glimpses of NZ fur seals, white-flippered penguins, Hector Dolphins, and more. It’s a majestical start to a day.
Head to New Brighton Pier
This beach pavilion in Christchurch is perfect for teams who want a relaxing day close to the ocean. With an interesting history behind its origins, it’s the ideal place to spend an afternoon by the sea, and there are so many things to do when you are there. You can walk along the 300m pier, grab lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants, spend time at the vintage markets and, for the ultimate treat to celebrate your end-of-season victory, head to He Puna Taimoana, where their hot pools are becoming a must-do activity, for locals and visitors to Christchurch.
See Dolphins on a Harbour Nature Cruise
Join an incredible dolphin spotting cruise on Akaroa Harbour for two hours. You’ll see rare Hector’s dolphins and fur seals, white-flippered penguins, and other wildlife – so make sure you take a camera to capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience. The catamaran wildlife cruise includes fresh-baked cookies, a drink, and the sight of these beautiful creatures.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
One of the most popular attractions is the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, which showcases the beautiful flora and fauna of New Zealand and other parts of the world. With flora and fauna for each season, it’s a place you can visit all year, and with more than 1.1 million visitors each year, it’s one of the most well-loved attractions in Christchurch.
The International Antarctic Centre
You may not be in Antarctica, but with a trip to the International Antarctic Centre, you’ll get a glimpse of what life is like there. From dramatic seasonal lighting in the four seasons of Antarctica with ‘snow’ every six minutes and venturing out on the ‘ice’ to hanging out with Little Blue Penguins, this is an amazing experience you’ll never forget.
Teams can also explore the Canterbury Museum, punt along the Avon River, take a day trip to the scenic Banks Peninsula, or ride on the Christchurch Tramway. There’s something for everyone on your Christchurch group getaway.