Flights from Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN) to Christchurch (CHC)

About Christchurch

Discover the gateway to New Zealands South Island

Christchurch blends English-influenced heritage with a fresh, creative spirit. Set on the banks of the Avon River and framed by the Port Hills and Southern Alps, the city feels open, green, and easy to explore on foot or by tram. You will find street art, modern architecture, and leafy parks sitting side by side.

As the main hub of the South Island, Christchurch is your starting point for journeys to the mountains, vineyards, and coast. Yet it is also a destination worth lingering in, with riverside precincts, innovative dining, and a relaxed pace that invites you to slow down between day trips.

Whether you are heading onwards to alpine adventures or planning to stay and explore the city, Christchurch offers a welcoming base with a strong connection to its natural surroundings.

Top sights in Christchurch

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

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

Avon River punting

Glide along the Avon River on a guided punt to see central Christchurch from a calm, scenic vantage point.

Christchurch Gondola

Ride the gondola up the Port Hills for panoramic views over the city, Lyttelton Harbour, and distant mountains.

Canterbury Museum and Christchurch Art Gallery

Explore regional history and contemporary art in two of the citys most important cultural institutions.

New Regent Street and Riverside Market

Browse colourful boutiques and sample local flavours in these lively central shopping and dining areas.

Experience Christchurch and its surrounds

Christchurch is ideal if you enjoy being outdoors without having to travel far. You can cycle along riverside paths, join a guided walking tour of the compact city centre, or take a tram ride to learn more about the citys evolving architecture and public spaces. The nearby Port Hills offer accessible tracks for short hikes with wide views over the plains and coastline.

For a change of pace, consider a day trip on the TranzAlpine railway into the Southern Alps, or a drive to the seaside town of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula, known for its sheltered harbour and coastal walks. In winter, ski fields within driving distance turn the region into a base for snow sports, while in the warmer months you can enjoy kayaking, mountain biking, and vineyard visits.

Families will find plenty to do as well, from wildlife encounters at the citys animal parks to interactive science and discovery centres. With many activities based close to the city, you can return to comfortable accommodation each evening after a full day out.

A taste of Christchurch

The dining scene in Christchurch is shaped by fresh local produce and a strong café culture. You will find modern New Zealand cuisine in stylish restaurants along the river, casual eateries in converted warehouses, and food trucks at markets and events around the city. Many menus highlight seasonal vegetables, local seafood, and meats from the Canterbury region.

Cafés are an essential part of daily life here, with a focus on quality coffee and relaxed spaces to linger over brunch. Bakeries and small producers showcase breads, pastries, cheeses, and other artisan goods, making it easy to assemble a simple picnic for a park or beach outing.

In the evening, riverside and inner-city precincts come alive with bistros, wine bars, and craft beer venues. You can sample regional wines from wider Canterbury and nearby regions, and pair them with shared plates or tasting menus that reflect the citys inventive approach to dining.

Retail therapy in the Garden City

Central Christchurch offers a mix of modern malls, open-air laneways, and restored heritage streets for shopping. In the city centre, you can browse fashion, homewares, and lifestyle brands, then pause in one of the nearby cafés. New Regent Street, with its distinctive pastel façades, combines boutique shops with small eateries in a compact, walkable block.

Markets are a highlight if you enjoy discovering local products. Riverside Market and regular weekend markets bring together growers, producers, and craftspeople under one roof or in outdoor settings, offering everything from fresh ingredients to handmade gifts.

Beyond the core, suburban centres feature additional malls and large-format stores, while small galleries and design studios around the city invite you to find one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you are looking for outdoor gear for South Island adventures or a simple souvenir, you will have many options to choose from.

Best time to visit Christchurch

Summer in Christchurch (December to February) brings warm, often dry days with average temperatures around 17–22°C (63–72°F). Long daylight hours are ideal for evening walks, outdoor dining, and beach visits along the nearby coast, making this the peak season for holidaymakers.

Autumn and spring (March to May, and September to November) are shoulder season periods, with mild temperatures typically between 10–18°C (50–64°F). Autumn colours in city parks and spring blossoms in the Botanic Gardens create a vibrant backdrop for sightseeing, while visitor numbers are usually more relaxed.

Winter (June to August) is the low season and offers crisp, cool days averaging 6–12°C (43–54°F). Snow often dusts the surrounding hills and mountains, making Christchurch a convenient base for visits to nearby ski fields and alpine landscapes, while the city itself remains easy to explore with fewer crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions