From cocktails to hiking trails: seven surprising things to do in Christchurch

When the sun’s setting, would you rather have a couple of cocktails on a rooftop or a hike on a clifftop? Hitting the shops or hitting the waves? Or would you prefer sunny beer gardens and hole-in-the-wall restaurants?

Whatever you’re into this summer, Ōtautahi Christchurch has got you covered. This revitalised city is brimming with exciting spots to eat and drink and interesting stuff to do: from urban farmers’ markets and local gin boutiques to retail laneways and riverside restaurants. If you fancy a little fresh air, you’re in luck. Christchurch is stacked with dramatic natural landscapes and world-class adventures.

Where better to let loose and explore? Make the most of your newfound freedom and do more this summer in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

1. Eat and drink at Riverside Market

Riverside Market is an indoor market in a scenic inner-city spot that’s buzzing seven days of the week. Here you’ll find local makers selling their wares, including donuts oozing with cream from the Donut Dispensary and handmade chocolates at She Chocolaterie. If you work up a hunger or a thirst while shopping, there’s also delicious street food and drinks, from fried chicken to locally distilled gin. There is also a wide range of retail options on offer in the laneways off Riverside for you to browse at your leisure.

2. Get your adrenaline pumping at Christchurch Adventure Park

Just 15 minute’s drive from Ōtautahi Christchurch’s CBD, there’s an adventure wonderland on 358 hectares designed for mountain biking, ziplining, hiking and sightseeing. It features the country’s longest chairlift at 1.8km, and our longest and highest ziplines at 1.1 km and 150 metres, respectively. There are endless mountain bike trails for everyone from beginners to advanced riders and breathtaking views over the hills to the city and Lyttleton harbour.

3. Visit the most beautiful street in Christchurch – New Regent Street

It’s easy to see why New Regent street won its name as the most beautiful street in New Zealand. Whether it’s the pastel-coloured buildings in 1940s Spanish Mission style, the bustling bars, cafes and restaurants, the boutique shops or the charming heritage tram that still makes its way down the street – there’s a lot to love. Must-visit spots while you’re here include Gin Gin, a 1940s parlour style bar serving gin cocktails – and the AV Club – a hole-in-the-wall vintage store selling vinyl and vintage video games.

4. Escape to Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens

Ōtautahi Christchurch is called the garden city for good reason. Hagley Park is the country’s biggest urban park – 165 hectares of green space and a slow-flowing river – and is literally in the CBD. Within the 153-year-old Christchurch Botanic Gardens lies a natural wonder of exotic and native plants and trees, an award-winning café, and Cunningham House, a huge hothouse complete with waterfalls and banana trees. Escape to Hagley and the Botanics to find zen and peace in the heart of the city.

5. Discover the SALT District

Gritty and genuine, SALT District is a precinct within Christchurch’s CBD well worth an afternoon of your time. Explore by foot or e-scooter and discover retail laneways and indoor eateries, street art splashed on walls, and outdoor beer gardens dazzling in the sun. Stop in at Little High for your global foodie fix, or Alice Cinematheque for a movie in a themed cinema. Brunch at C1 is a bucket list experience, High St shopping for eclectic collections, and visit Smash Palace with your canine buddy for a great outdoor drink.

6. Soak away your worries at He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools

He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools is a complex of five hot pools at different temperatures, a plunge pool and a separate café. And the best part? They’re perched right on the dunes of New Brighton Beach with stunning sea views. Can you think of anything better than soaking in the warm water and watching the sunset over the ocean? Be sure to check out Saturdays, the attached café. Insta-worthy brunches and huge views make this a favourite for folk across the city.

7. The Tannery

Old-time charm meets modern eating, drinking and shopping at the Tannery, a gorgeous heritage industrial building converted into a stylish indoor retail centre. Here, on the banks of the Heathcote River under a glass atrium roof, you’ll discover 50 boutique shops, cafes and restaurants. Every spot is worth a visit but it’s worth making a special effort to visit Cassels Brewery Bar & Restaurant, where they pour award-winning craft beer fresh from the tank and serve pizzas kissed by woodfire. Be sure to also check out Blue Smoke for the city’s best live music offering.

To start planning your adventure in the kiwi city that has it all, jump over to christchurchnz.com/summer and start planning your Do More Summer.