Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Christchurch (CHC)

About Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand's garden city by the sea

Christchurch blends English-influenced architecture, leafy streets, and creative modern design against a backdrop of the Southern Alps. Reimagined after recent rebuilding, the city feels spacious and relaxed, with riverside walks, lush parks, and surprising pockets of colourful street art and contemporary spaces. It is an easy place to explore on foot, by bike, or by tram.

As the main gateway to New Zealand's South Island, Christchurch is an ideal starting point for wider adventures. Within a short drive you will find vineyard-dotted hills, hot springs, and dramatic coastlines where you can watch wildlife in their natural environment. Whether you are travelling for nature, food, or a slower-paced escape, the city offers a gentle arrival before you head deeper into the region.

Top sights in Christchurch

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through themed gardens and towering trees beside the Avon River in one of the city’s most peaceful green spaces.

Avon River punting

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

Christchurch Gondola

Ride the gondola to the top of the Port Hills for panoramic views over the city, the Canterbury Plains, and Lyttelton Harbour.

New Regent Street

Wander this heritage street lined with pastel-coloured buildings, cafés, and boutiques in the heart of the city.

International Antarctic Centre

Learn about Antarctic exploration and wildlife through interactive exhibits close to Christchurch Airport.

Experience Christchurch and the Canterbury region

Christchurch offers gentle urban experiences alongside easy access to the outdoors. Cycle along well-marked paths, join a guided walking tour to understand the city’s architecture and rebuilding stories, or hop on the heritage tram to see key sights at a relaxed pace. The river and parks give you space to unwind between activities.

Beyond the city, the Canterbury region invites you to explore rolling hills, beaches, and alpine landscapes. Take a day trip to Akaroa on Banks Peninsula for coastal walks and harbour cruises, or head inland to Hanmer Springs for forest trails and hot pools. In winter, the nearby ski areas attract snow sports enthusiasts, while in warmer months you can hike, kayak, or join wildlife-spotting cruises along the coast.

A taste of Christchurch

Christchurch’s dining scene focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients from the surrounding Canterbury region. You will find modern eateries that highlight local produce, waterfront restaurants in nearby harbourside suburbs, and relaxed cafés serving excellent coffee and baked goods. Many places feature open, airy interiors that reflect the city’s contemporary character.

Casual food markets and food truck gatherings are popular, especially in the warmer months. These are good places to sample local specialities, international flavours, and creative desserts in one stop. Pair your meals with regional wines from nearby vineyards or locally brewed craft beer, and take your time enjoying the city’s sociable, laid-back dining culture.

Retail therapy in the heart of Canterbury

Christchurch offers a mix of modern malls, compact shopping streets, and independent boutiques. In the city centre, you can browse contemporary malls that house international brands alongside local labels, stationery, and homeware. Pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to wander between shops, cafés, and galleries.

If you are looking for something uniquely local, visit design stores and markets that feature New Zealand-made clothing, ceramics, art prints, and skincare. Suburban neighbourhoods and nearby towns offer smaller clusters of shops where you can find handmade items, outdoor gear for South Island adventures, and gifts inspired by the region’s landscapes. Many retail areas are close to parks and rivers, so you can combine browsing with time outdoors.

Best time to visit Christchurch

Summer in Christchurch (December to February) brings warm, long days with average temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F), making it ideal for beach visits, outdoor dining, and exploring nearby bays. This is the peak season, with a lively atmosphere in parks and along the river.

Autumn and spring (March to May, and September to November) are shoulder season periods, with mild temperatures of about 12–20°C (54–68°F). Autumn colours the parks in gold and red, while spring brings fresh blossoms to the Botanic Gardens, creating comfortable conditions for walking, cycling, and day trips.

Winter (June to August) is the low season, with cool days typically between 6–12°C (43–54°F). Clear, crisp weather often reveals excellent views of the snow-dusted Southern Alps, and the city feels calm and uncrowded. It is a good time to enjoy nearby ski areas and cosy cafés after time outdoors.

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