10 Scenic Year-Round Things to Do in Christchurch New Zealand

Key Takeaways:

• Christchurch offers a unique blend of nature, innovation, and culture with something happening every season.

• You can explore botanical gardens, street art, mountain hikes, and festivals without ever leaving the city.

• It’s a great base for South Island adventures and also packed with local gems to enjoy all year.

Located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch is a city that has reinvented itself with creativity and resilience. Known as the “Garden City,” Christchurch balances English heritage with modern design, art-forward projects, and a dynamic outdoor lifestyle. After the 2011 earthquake, the city has undergone a bold transformation—resulting in a lively blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge innovation. Locals and travelers love Christchurch for its walkable streets, ever-changing festivals, mountain-to-beach access, and quirky community spirit. Whether you’re here for food, hiking, history, or festivals, Christchurch is a city that surprises you—in every season.

Table of Contents

1. Stroll Through Christchurch Botanic Gardens

2. Ride the Christchurch Gondola for Epic Views

3. Discover the City’s Street Art Scene

4. Visit the Canterbury Museum and Quake City

5. Explore the Port Hills Trails and Summit Road

6. Take a Day Trip to Akaroa’s French Village

7. Join the World Buskers Festival in January

8. Kayak or Paddleboard on the Avon River

9. Shop and Dine at Riverside Market

10. Catch a Performance at the Isaac Theatre Royal

1. Stroll Through Christchurch Botanic Gardens

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are the city’s crown jewel and a perfect starting point for any visit. Open year-round and free to enter, the gardens span over 21 hectares and feature native New Zealand plants, a serene rose garden, exotic trees, and a conservatory packed with tropical species. Set along the banks of the Avon River, the gardens are both a peaceful escape and a celebration of natural beauty.

Visitors often bring a picnic, rent a punt boat nearby, or simply walk the winding paths under towering oak and redwood trees. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom and fill the gardens with color. In autumn, the trees turn gold and orange, making it one of the best spots for photography in the city. It’s a relaxing way to connect with nature without ever leaving central Christchurch.

2. Ride the Christchurch Gondola for Epic Views

For panoramic views of Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, and even the Southern Alps, the Christchurch Gondola is a must. This cable car climbs the slopes of Mt Cavendish in the Port Hills and offers a breathtaking ride up to a scenic summit station. Once at the top, you’ll find walking trails, a café, and even a time tunnel experience that takes you through Canterbury’s history.

The gondola runs year-round, and the summit provides a new perspective in every season—from snow-dusted mountains in winter to green fields in summer. If you’re into hiking, there are also trails from the top that connect to longer ridge routes. It’s a great half-day outing for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting a bird’s-eye view of the region. Bring a jacket—it can be windy at the top!

3. Discover the City’s Street Art Scene

Christchurch has turned its rebuilding journey into a living art gallery, with bold, large-scale murals decorating buildings all over the city. Since 2011, local and international artists have added dozens of pieces to the cityscape—making urban exploration a visually rich experience. You can take a free self-guided walking tour using maps from the city or apps that pinpoint mural locations.

Each mural has a story, and many reflect themes of renewal, community, and hope. Some are playful, some political, and others purely beautiful. The best part? New ones pop up every year, so there’s always something fresh to see. If you’re into photography, design, or just unique urban experiences, Christchurch’s street art is not to be missed.

4. Visit the Canterbury Museum and Quake City

For a deeper understanding of Christchurch’s history, the Canterbury Museum offers free admission and an impressive mix of natural and cultural exhibits. From Antarctic exploration to Māori artifacts and Victorian-era collections, it’s a fascinating space for curious minds of all ages. A few blocks away, Quake City provides an emotional and interactive look into the 2010–2011 earthquakes and the city’s inspiring recovery.

Both museums are open year-round and located near the Botanic Gardens, making them easy to fit into any itinerary. Quake City is particularly moving, with survivor stories, rescue footage, and science exhibits explaining seismic activity. It’s not only educational but also a powerful reminder of Christchurch’s resilience. Together, these two stops help put the city’s evolution into perspective.

5. Explore the Port Hills Trails and Summit Road

If you’re craving a hike without leaving the city, the Port Hills deliver some of the best outdoor adventures in Christchurch. With trails ranging from short strolls to day hikes, the area offers sweeping views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Southern Alps. Summit Road connects key lookouts and is perfect for cyclists, runners, or leisurely walkers.

Popular trails like the Bridle Path, Rapaki Track, and Harry Ell Walkway are accessible year-round and change with the seasons—green and vibrant in summer, misty and moody in winter. Locals often pack lunch and enjoy it at one of the many scenic benches or ridges. Whether you’re after fitness, photography, or fresh air, the Port Hills are one of Christchurch’s best natural assets.

6. Take a Day Trip to Akaroa’s French Village

Just 90 minutes from Christchurch lies the charming seaside town of Akaroa, nestled in an ancient volcanic crater. Known for its French heritage, Akaroa features pastel-colored buildings, boutique shops, waterfront cafés, and a peaceful harbor that feels worlds away from the city. The drive itself is stunning, winding through the Banks Peninsula with ocean views, rolling hills, and scenic lookouts.

Once in Akaroa, you can explore by foot, enjoy local cheeses and pastries, or book a harbor cruise to spot Hector’s dolphins—the smallest and rarest in the world. The village hosts art galleries, nature walks, and even a quirky giant’s garden. It’s the perfect year-round escape for those craving a blend of history, ocean air, and a little bit of Europe in New Zealand.

7. Join the World Buskers Festival in January

Every January, Christchurch explodes with laughter, acrobatics, and live energy during the World Buskers Festival (also known as Bread & Circus). This internationally acclaimed event brings together street performers, comedians, musicians, and circus artists for two weeks of unforgettable shows. Performances take place in public squares, parks, and pop-up venues across the city—many of them free or donation-based.

From juggling acts and aerial stunts to improv comedy and magic shows, the festival turns Christchurch into a carnival of creativity. It’s one of the city’s biggest annual highlights and draws thousands of locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re watching a fire-eater downtown or a comedy night under a big tent, the Buskers Festival delivers joy in every corner.

8. Kayak or Paddleboard on the Avon River

For a relaxing yet immersive way to see the city, rent a kayak or paddleboard and float down the Avon River. Flowing gently through the heart of Christchurch, the river offers a peaceful ride past weeping willows, historic buildings, and the Botanic Gardens. It’s an easy, beginner-friendly activity suitable for all ages and available nearly all year.

You can rent gear from companies along Cambridge Terrace or even join guided eco-tours that teach you about the river’s ecosystem and history. It’s a great contrast to city walking—offering both serenity and a splash of fun. Don’t be surprised if ducks or swans float by as you paddle past. It’s urban nature at its most charming.

9. Shop and Dine at Riverside Market

Riverside Market is a modern indoor food hall and shopping destination located right in the city center. Open seven days a week, it features artisan food stalls, local produce, handmade crafts, and international cuisines. From wood-fired pizza and dumplings to boutique coffee and organic groceries, the market reflects Christchurch’s diverse and creative food scene.

It’s a favorite gathering spot for both locals and tourists, offering communal seating, live music on weekends, and ever-changing seasonal specials. Whether you’re here for breakfast, lunch, or happy hour, Riverside has options for every taste and budget. If you want a taste of modern Christchurch flavor and flair, this is the place to start.

10. Catch a Performance at the Isaac Theatre Royal

Step into the elegance of a bygone era at the Isaac Theatre Royal, a beautifully restored heritage venue dating back to 1908. Located in the heart of Christchurch, it hosts everything from ballet and opera to comedy tours and live concerts. The interior is breathtaking, with ornate balconies, chandeliers, and old-world charm balanced by modern acoustics and comfort.

Shows take place year-round, and even if you’re not a regular theatergoer, it’s worth checking the schedule to see what’s on during your visit. Whether you’re watching a local play or an international act, the experience is elevated by the venue’s grandeur. It’s a classy way to cap off a night in a city that blends tradition and reinvention so well.

What to Do if You Have Kids?

Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s most family-friendly cities, with open green spaces, interactive museums, and tons of child-friendly cafés. Kids love exploring the Christchurch Gondola, the Margaret Mahy Playground (one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere), and the interactive exhibits at the Canterbury Museum. You can rent family bikes, paddle down the river, or hop aboard the city tram for a novelty ride through town. Most attractions are walkable, stroller-friendly, and designed with all ages in mind—making Christchurch an ideal place for a family holiday.

Where Can I Find Free Events in Christchurch New Zealand Taking Place This Weekend?

Want to discover what’s happening in Christchurch this weekend without spending a dime? Visit PlanMyWeekend.ai, a smart tool that finds free events based on your location and interests. Whether it’s an outdoor movie, food truck rally, local festival, or farmers market, the platform curates fun, no-cost activities happening near you. It’s the perfect way to find hidden gems, connect with the community, and make the most of your weekend in Christchurch.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip Here

Christchurch is a city that thrives in every season—combining the charm of old-world architecture with bold creativity and outdoor magic. Whether you’re climbing hills, shopping for handmade goods, floating down rivers, or soaking up live music, there’s something in this city for everyone. With its friendly vibe and ever-evolving culture, Christchurch makes it easy to slow down, look around, and enjoy the moment. Come for the gardens, stay for the soul—you’ll be glad you did.