Flights from Tokyo (TYO) to Christchurch (CHC)

About Christchurch

Discover Christchurch

Why visit Christchurch?
Christchurch is a welcoming city where heritage streets, leafy riverside walks, and creative new architecture meet against a backdrop of the Southern Alps. You can enjoy a relaxed urban atmosphere while staying close to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes.

What to expect
The city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot, with the Avon River, green parks, and a growing arts and café scene shaping its character. Innovative public spaces, street art, and revitalised precincts give Christchurch a fresh, forward-looking feel alongside its classic gardens and historic buildings.

Plan your trip
Christchurch is an ideal base for discovering the wider Canterbury region, from vineyards and coastal towns to alpine resorts and lakes. With good road connections and tours departing the city, you can easily add day trips or longer road journeys into your itinerary.

Top sights in Christchurch

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through themed gardens, towering trees, and riverside lawns in this tranquil green heart of the city.

Avon River Punting

Glide along the Avon River on a flat-bottomed boat for a peaceful view of parks, bridges, and city landmarks.

Christchurch Gondola

Ride the gondola for panoramic views over the city, Canterbury Plains, and Lyttelton Harbour, with walking tracks at the summit.

New Regent Street

Visit this colourful heritage street lined with boutiques and cafés, perfect for a relaxed afternoon wander.

Riverside Market

Explore a lively indoor market offering fresh produce, casual eateries, and local products in a modern riverside setting.

Canterbury Museum and cultural precinct

Discover regional history and natural heritage, then continue into nearby arts and cultural spaces around the museum area.

Port Hills walking tracks

Head up to the Port Hills for walking trails with sweeping views over Christchurch, the plains, and the coastline.

Day trips to Akaroa

Take a scenic drive to Akaroa on Banks Peninsula for harbour views, wildlife cruises, and charming village streets.

Experience Christchurch’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Christchurch’s central city is compact, so you can comfortably explore many sights on foot. Buses link the suburbs, malls, and coastal areas, while cycling is popular on flat streets and riverside paths. For out-of-town excursions, guided tours and car rentals offer flexible options.

Local life & culture
You will find a relaxed pace of life, with locals meeting in riverside cafés, parks, and modern food halls. Creative districts and street art trails highlight a strong arts culture, and seasonal events bring markets, performances, and outdoor activities into the city centre.

Where to unwind
Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens provide wide open spaces for walking, picnics, and quiet moments by the river, especially in the late afternoon light. Nearby beaches and the Port Hills add opportunities for coastal walks, scenic lookouts, and fresh air close to the city.

A taste of Christchurch

Street food & local specialties
In Christchurch, you can sample local flavours at food trucks, markets, and casual stalls, especially around Riverside Market and central city events. Look for seafood, seasonal produce, and bakery treats that showcase ingredients from across the Canterbury region.

Casual & modern dining hubs
The city’s revitalised precincts and shopping areas feature relaxed eateries, cafés, and bars offering a mix of New Zealand and international dishes. Many menus are designed for sharing, so you can try smaller plates and sample a variety of flavours in one sitting.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose venues overlooking the Avon River, the Port Hills, or the harbour at nearby seaside suburbs. Some restaurants pair their dishes with views through large windows or outdoor terraces, creating an atmospheric setting for special occasions or leisurely evenings.

Retail therapy in Christchurch

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Christchurch offers modern shopping centres with international brands, local designers, and plenty of cafés for a break between stores. These lifestyle hubs often combine shopping with dining and entertainment, making them easy places to spend a few relaxed hours.

Markets & local crafts
For something more personal, explore markets and smaller streets around the city centre, where you can find artisan goods, design objects, and locally made products. Neighbourhoods such as the riverside precincts and nearby village-style centres showcase independent boutiques and creative studios.

Evening retail scene
As evening falls, selected streets and shopping areas stay lively with illuminated shopfronts and welcoming food venues. While some markets are daytime-focused, late-opening stores and dining spots create a pleasant after-dark atmosphere, and public transport makes it simple to return to your accommodation.

Best time to visit Christchurch

Summer (December to February, peak season)
Christchurch summers are warm and generally dry, with average temperatures around 22°C (72°F). Long daylight hours make it ideal for exploring parks, beaches, and nearby alpine areas, and the city often hosts outdoor events and festivals during this period.

Autumn and spring (March to May, and September to November, shoulder season)
These seasons bring mild temperatures, typically 11–18°C (52–64°F), and changing colours in parks and gardens. You can expect crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons, with fewer crowds and a calm atmosphere that suits walking, cycling, and day trips into the surrounding countryside.

Winter (June to August, low season)
Winters are cool, with average temperatures around 10°C (50°F), clear days, and chilly nights. The season offers easy access to nearby alpine regions for snow activities, while in the city you can enjoy cosy cafés, museums, and scenic views of the snow-dusted Southern Alps.

Frequently Asked Questions