Flights from Paris (CDG) to Christchurch (CHC)

About Christchurch

Discover Christchurch

Why visit Christchurch?
Christchurch blends leafy English-style charm with a creative, forward-looking spirit. You will find riverside walks, contemporary architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to slow down after a long-haul journey.

What to expect
The city centre is compact and walkable, framed by the Avon River and expansive parks. Reimagined precincts, street art, and innovative public spaces create a fresh urban feel, while nearby hills and beaches bring nature to the edge of town.

Plan your trip
Christchurch is an ideal starting point for exploring New Zealand’s South Island, with road, rail, and air links to alpine regions, coastal towns, and wine country. Many travellers spend a few days here to adjust, explore, and then continue their journey into the wider region.

Top sights in Christchurch

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Stroll among themed gardens, towering trees, and seasonal flower displays beside the Avon River in the city’s green heart.

Punting on the Avon

Glide along the river on a traditional flat-bottomed boat for a peaceful view of parklands and central Christchurch.

Christchurch Tramway

Ride the heritage tram through key city sights, hopping on and off to explore revitalised precincts and landmarks.

Quake City Exhibition

Learn about Christchurch’s recent seismic history and the city’s ongoing renewal through interactive displays and stories.

Port Hills

Head up to the Port Hills for panoramic views over the city, the Canterbury Plains, and Lyttelton Harbour.

International Antarctic Centre

Experience immersive exhibits, simulated Antarctic conditions, and informative displays on life and science in the polar regions.

New Regent Street

Wander this pastel-coloured heritage street lined with boutique shops and cafes set along the tram line.

Sumner Beach

Escape to a nearby coastal suburb for a sandy beach, coastal walks, and a refreshing ocean breeze.

Experience Christchurch’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Christchurch’s central city is best explored on foot, by bicycle, or using the heritage tram for a relaxed loop of key sights. For neighbourhoods and the coast, local buses are reliable, and taxis or rideshare services are a convenient last step back to your hotel.

Local life & culture
You will notice a calm, outdoors-focused lifestyle, with locals using the parks, riverside paths, and community spaces throughout the day. Creative installations, galleries, and performance venues highlight the city’s cultural side, while weekend events bring people together in central squares.

Where to unwind
Hagley Park and the riverside paths offer easy escapes into greenery close to the city centre. For more expansive views, head to the Port Hills or coastal walks near Sumner and Taylors Mistake, especially in the late afternoon when the light softens and the city slows.

A taste of Christchurch

Street food & local specialties
Explore casual eateries and food halls for dishes built around fresh local produce, seafood, and seasonal ingredients. Neighbourhood centres and weekend markets often feature small vendors where you can sample a variety of quick bites in one place.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Central city laneways and revamped precincts host relaxed restaurants, cafes, and bars offering flavours from New Zealand and around the world. Menus tend to encourage sharing and tasting, so you can try several plates over a single meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose a venue overlooking the river, city skyline, or hills on the horizon. Some restaurants pair refined menus with open kitchens or outdoor terraces, turning your meal into a lingering, scenic experience.

Retail therapy in Christchurch

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in and around the central city combine international brands, local labels, and dining in one place. These hubs double as social spaces, with open atriums and relaxed seating that invite you to pause between stores.

Markets & local crafts
Inner-city streets and boutique clusters showcase local designers, outdoor gear specialists, and independent homeware stores. Weekend markets, artisan pop-ups, and nearby village-style precincts are ideal for finding crafted gifts and one-off pieces.

Evening retail scene
After dark, key shopping streets and laneways take on a softer, illuminated atmosphere, with shopfronts, cafes, and bars creating an inviting glow. Many central areas are within easy reach of buses, trams, and taxis, so you can enjoy an unhurried browse before heading back.

Best time to visit Christchurch

Summer (December to February, peak season)
Christchurch summers are warm and bright, with average temperatures around 22°C (72°F). Long evenings are ideal for riverside walks, outdoor dining, and beach visits, and the city feels lively with events and day trips into the surrounding countryside.

Autumn and spring (March to May, and September to November, shoulder season)
These seasons bring mild days, cool nights, and changing colours in parks and gardens, with averages near 15–18°C (59–64°F). It is a pleasant time for cycling, exploring the city centre, and enjoying nearby vineyards and hill walks in more peaceful conditions.

Winter (June to August, low season)
Winters are crisp, often clear, with average temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and cooler nights. The city remains easy to explore, and it becomes an excellent base for trips to nearby alpine areas and hot pools, giving your visit a distinctly cosy, scenic character.

Frequently Asked Questions