Flights from Munich (MUC) to Christchurch (CHC)

About Christchurch

Discover Christchurch

Why visit Christchurch?
Christchurch is the vibrant gateway to New Zealand’s South Island, where leafy streets, creative spaces, and riverside parks meet mountain and ocean backdrops. You will find a relaxed city that balances urban renewal with easy access to nature.

What to expect
The city centre is compact and walkable, with modern architecture sitting alongside historic stone buildings and open green spaces. Revitalised precincts offer cafes, galleries, and street art, while the Avon River and expansive parks bring a calm, outdoorsy feel to everyday life.

Plan your trip
Christchurch works well as both a city break and a starting point for wider adventures across Canterbury and the South Island. From here, you can reach alpine villages, coastal towns, and renowned wine regions, making it an ideal base for road trips and multi-day itineraries.

Top sights in Christchurch

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll through themed gardens and towering trees in this central green oasis beside the Avon River.

Punting on the Avon

Glide along the Avon River on a flat-bottomed boat and see the city from a peaceful waterside angle.

Hagley Park

Explore one of the largest urban parks in New Zealand, ideal for walking, jogging, and open-air relaxation.

Canterbury Museum & cultural precinct

Discover regional history, Antarctic exploration stories, and rotating exhibitions in the heart of the city.

Port Hills viewpoints

Drive or hike up to the Port Hills for panoramic views across Christchurch, the plains, and the coastline.

New Regent Street

Wander this picturesque heritage street lined with pastel-coloured buildings, boutique shops, and cosy cafes.

International Antarctic Centre

Experience interactive exhibits that bring the spirit of Antarctic exploration close to Christchurch Airport.

Sumner and Taylor’s Mistake beaches

Head to the coast for seaside walks, surfing conditions, and dramatic cliffs just a short drive from the city.

Experience Christchurch’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Christchurch’s central city is easy to explore on foot, with most highlights within a short walk of each other. Buses connect the suburbs, beaches, and hill suburbs, while rideshare services and taxis work well for later evenings or when you are carrying luggage.

Local life & culture
You will notice a laid-back rhythm, with locals enjoying riverside walks, weekend markets, and outdoor events. Rebuilt precincts blend street art, contemporary design, and small independent businesses, giving the city a creative, forward-looking character.

Where to unwind
For quiet time, head to Hagley Park, the Botanic Gardens, or riverside paths along the Avon. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly pleasant for walks or cycling, letting you enjoy softer light and cooler temperatures in the open air.

A taste of Christchurch

Street food & local specialties
Food trucks, market stalls, and casual eateries serve everything from local produce plates to international favourites. Central city lanes and weekend markets are good places to sample quick bites in a relaxed setting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern bistros, cafes, and neighbourhood restaurants are spread through the city centre and inner suburbs. Menus often celebrate seasonal ingredients, with small plates and sharing dishes that make it easy to try a few different flavours in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable meals, look for venues with views over the Avon River, hillside outlooks, or stylish inner-city settings. Whether it is a long lunch or an evening dinner, you can pair thoughtfully prepared dishes with the city’s calm, scenic atmosphere.

Retail therapy in Christchurch

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central shopping centres bring together international brands, local labels, and dining in one place. These hubs often include cinemas and casual eateries, making them convenient spots to combine errands, browsing, and a relaxed break.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller markets and independent shops offer locally made homewares, art, and design pieces. Areas in and around the city centre, as well as creative precincts in nearby suburbs, are good for finding distinctive gifts and New Zealand-made products.

Evening retail scene
While evenings are generally relaxed, selected streets and malls stay open later on certain days, with illuminated shopfronts and nearby restaurants creating a pleasant atmosphere. Frequent public transport and central parking make it straightforward to reach these areas after dark.

Best time to visit Christchurch

Summer (December to February, peak season)
Christchurch summers are warm and bright, with average temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F). Long daylight hours suit outdoor dining, beach trips, and evening walks. This is a popular time for events and festivals, giving the city an energetic, holiday feel.

Autumn and spring (March to May, and September to November, shoulder season)
Autumn brings crisp mornings, clear days, and colourful trees, typically around 10–20°C (50–68°F). Spring offers fresh greenery, blossoms, and similar temperatures. These seasons are ideal for relaxed sightseeing, cycling, and day trips into the surrounding countryside.

Winter (June to August, low season)
Winters are cool but generally mild, with temperatures around 5–12°C (41–54°F). Clear days create sharp views of the snow-capped Southern Alps, and the city feels calm and cosy. It is a comfortable base for enjoying nearby alpine landscapes and indoor cultural attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions