Top 5 things to explore in Christchurch before you start your South Island road trip

We recommend the top 5 things to explore in Christchurch before you start your South Island road trip:

1. The Terrace

The Terrace is one of the undiscovered delights of Christchurch Ōtautahi’s dynamic dining and entertainment hub. Nestled a mere stone’s throw from the picturesque Avon River, The Terrace is a lively intersection where authenticity converges with creativity—a meeting place for the intimate and the avant-garde.

Time to allow: 2-3 hours depending on whether it’s dinner or lunch

Location: 126 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch

2. Christchurch Tram

The Christchurch Trams provide a distinctive blend of history and sightseeing, making it one of the top activities in Christchurch. Perfect for families and enjoyable for both locals and visitors, our meticulously restored heritage trams stand as one of the city’s most cherished and iconic attractions. Plus, remember, kids ride for free!

Time to allow: 1 hour

Location: 109 Worcester Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

The tram runs on a loop through the CBD and you can purchase the ticket on board. The tram shop is located in Cathedral Junction

3. Riverside Market

The Riverside Market is situated along the banks of the Avon River, Ōtākaro, in the Central Business District. This market hall showcases producers and growers from the entire region, offering a vast array of restaurant and dining choices featuring flavors from around the globe. It has received accolades for its creative design and exceptional customer service.

Time to allow: 1- 2 hours

Location: 96 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch

4. The Arts Centre

Considered one of Christchurch’s prominent landmarks, the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu was inaugurated for public access in 2003. The facility comprises nine exhibition spaces, a reference library, an auditorium, educational workrooms, a restaurant, shops, and extensive storage for collections. The name ‘Te Puna o Waiwhetū’ symbolizes the rejuvenating qualities of the artesian spring upon which the gallery stands.

Time to allow: 1- 2 hours

Location: 312 Montreal Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora takes up an entire city block bounded by Worcester Boulevard, Rolleston Avenue, and Hereford and Montreal streets. 

5. Christchurch Botanic Garden

Established in 1863 with the planting of an English Oak tree, it is situated in the heart of Christchurch. The gardens cover an expansive 21-hectare area, positioned beside the loop of the Avon River, adjacent to Hagley Park. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens feature diverse collections of both exotic and indigenous plants native to New Zealand. Additionally, the gardens house several conservatories, a nursery, a playground, and a Climatological Station.

Time to allow: 2-3  hours

Location: Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch

Free parking: there are 3 hours of free parking for all visitors, you can access it from the Armagh Street entrance and follow the road till you see it.