Flights from Beijing (BJS) to Christchurch (CHC)

About Christchurch

Discover Christchurch

Why visit Christchurch?
Christchurch is a welcoming South Island city known for its leafy streets, creative energy, and strong connection to the outdoors. You will find a relaxed pace, riverside parks, and a compact centre that makes it easy to explore on foot.

What to expect
The city blends heritage architecture with striking modern design, set around the gently winding Avon River and expansive Hagley Park. Street art, small galleries, and innovative public spaces give Christchurch a fresh, forward-looking feel while still retaining its traditional garden-city character.

Plan your trip
Christchurch is a natural starting point for journeys across the South Island, from the Southern Alps to coastal wildlife regions. With a well-connected airport, scenic rail links, and easy self-drive routes, it works well as both a city break and a gateway to New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes.

Top sights in Christchurch

Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens

Stroll through vast green lawns, lakes, and themed gardens right beside the city centre, a favourite place for walking, cycling, and picnics.

Christchurch Tram and historic centre

Ride the vintage tram through central streets to see key landmarks, riverside precincts, and revitalised heritage buildings at a relaxed pace.

Riverside Market and Ōtākaro Avon River

Explore a lively covered market with local produce and eateries, then wander or punt along the river for a different view of the city.

Port Hills and Christchurch Gondola

Take the gondola up to panoramic viewpoints over the city, Canterbury Plains, and Lyttelton Harbour, with walking tracks on the hilltops.

International Antarctic Centre

Experience interactive exhibits, simulated Antarctic conditions, and themed displays that highlight Christchurch’s long connection to Antarctic exploration.

New Regent Street and city laneways

Wander between pastel-coloured shopfronts and tucked-away lanes filled with cafés, small bars, and boutique stores in the compact city centre.

Sumner and New Brighton beaches

Head to nearby coastal suburbs for wide sandy beaches, seaside walks, and fresh air just a short drive from downtown Christchurch.

Experience Christchurch’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Central Christchurch is compact, so walking is often the easiest way to get between key sights. Buses connect the city with outer suburbs, beaches, and the airport, while cycling paths and riverside trails offer a scenic way to move around.

Local life & culture
You will notice a strong creative streak in Christchurch, from colourful murals to repurposed buildings housing galleries and studios. Locals enjoy spending time along the river, in parks, and in small neighbourhood centres that combine cafés, cultural spaces, and community events.

Where to unwind
Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens are ideal for quiet walks, morning runs, or an afternoon on the grass under mature trees. For wider views, the Port Hills offer short walking tracks and lookout points, especially rewarding around sunset on clear days.

A taste of Christchurch

Street food & local specialties
You will find relaxed food stalls and small eateries in areas like Riverside Market and the inner-city laneways, with dishes showcasing local produce from the Canterbury region. Try casual spots that highlight seafood, seasonal vegetables, and modern takes on classic comfort food.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Central precincts combine cafés, bistros, and food halls where you can sample a variety of flavours in one place. Contemporary venues often feature open kitchens and flexible small-plate menus, making it easy to try several dishes and share with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose a restaurant overlooking the Avon River, city skyline, or out towards the Port Hills. Some venues offer tasting menus and carefully paired drinks, creating a relaxed yet refined atmosphere for special occasions or a final-night treat.

Retail therapy in Christchurch

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Large malls and lifestyle centres around Christchurch offer international brands, local labels, supermarkets, and entertainment under one roof. They are convenient places to combine shopping, dining, and cinema visits in a single stop.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller markets and central streets showcase local designers, artisan crafts, and homeware. Riverside Market, The Arts Centre precinct, and areas near New Regent Street are good places to look for handmade gifts, artwork, and distinctive New Zealand-made products.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, central streets and selected malls remain active with illuminated shopfronts and late-opening eateries. You can combine a relaxed dinner with browsing boutiques or grabbing last-minute essentials, with public transport and taxi services making it easy to return to your accommodation.

Best time to visit Christchurch

Summer season (December to February, peak season)
Christchurch summers are warm and bright, with average temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F). Long evenings, outdoor events, and easy access to nearby beaches make this a popular time, with many visitors combining the city with wider South Island adventures.

Shoulder season (March to May and September to November, shoulder season)
Autumn and spring bring mild days of around 13–20°C (55–68°F), fresh mornings, and changing colours in parks and gardens. These seasons are ideal for walking, cycling, and day trips, with a relaxed atmosphere and generally pleasant conditions for exploring.

Winter season (June to August, low season)
Winter is cool, with average temperatures of about 6–12°C (43–54°F), clear days, and crisp air. It is a rewarding time to enjoy city cafés, museums, and nearby alpine areas, and serves as a comfortable base for visiting South Island ski fields.

Frequently Asked Questions