Christchurch Travel Guide

Christchurch is in recovery following a series of earthquakes from September 4, 2010. The most damaging earthquake was on February 22, 2011; when more than 160 people lost their lives. The central business district remains closed as a result of many weakened buildings that are yet to be demolished.

Christchurch is the largest city on New Zealand's South Island and is often international travellers' gateway to the beautiful South Island. This city was a planned settlement founded by English colonialists. This rich English history is still apparent in the city's atmosphere; tram lines loop around the city, you can punt down the Avon, and the city was scattered with impressive Neo-Gothic buildings (many of which have suffered extensive damage due to the earthquakes).

Christchurch Hotels & Accommodation

The central business district is fenced off with many hotels in this area now unavailable. Hotels and other accommodation options in Christchurch vary depending on where you choose to stay. For backpackers and those travelling on the cheap, popular backpackers hostels offer share rooms where accommodation that you can secure with Webjet Hotels. From there, accommodation costs increase when staying in motels, hotels, B&Bs and self-contained apartments.

Car Hire in Christchurch

Car hire is available in Christchurch from the following car rental companies:

To simplify organising your holiday to Christchurch, you can combine car hire with your flight with Webjet and save!

Christchurch Tourism Hot Spots

Christchurch is a great city for sightseeing. Luckily, most of Christchurch is flat making it perfect for walking tours or for cycling.

Canterbury Museum

The Canterbury Museum tells you a story with its fascinating artifacts and exhibits. The Museum has more than two million items and focuses on the stories of early Maori, European settlement and Antarctic exploration.

Punting on the Avon River

Sit back and relax on plush velvet cushions as your Edwardian punter propels you along the Avon River. The journey offers a unique way to see the city’s historic buildings and Botanic Gardens.

Dolphins & Whale Watching

For something completely amazing, you should go swimming with dolphins! There are numerous operators offering the opportunity to swim with local dolphins in the ocean. There are also whale watching companies where you get to see various species of whales in their natural environment.

Christchurch Weather

Christchurch has a temperate climate characterised by warm, hot summers and mild winters. Due to Christchurch's location it has average maximum temperatures of 23°C in January and 11°C in July. Christchurch is prone to northwesterly winds which can sometimes reach storm force. Winters are cool and clear with more frequent rains than in summer. Also in winter there is a prevalence of smog which may deter travellers with severe respiratory problems.

 

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