Christchurch on show in spring
How good is spring? Longer days, a great schedule of events to enjoy, and it’s when we can say goodbye to our winter hibernation.
We love spring in Christchurch. Our avenues are lined with blossoms, and our wonderful parks are carpeted with daffodils. It’s when our city and region are properly ‘On Show’. What’s not to love? You can watch horses while sipping on bubbles, and then soak in seaside hot pools. Zip down a hillside, and then cheer for international netballers. Gaze up at big stage rock stars, and then sit riverside for cocktails.
During spring, we behave much like nature. We wait for the right time to catch the light. Just like spring flowers draw you in, the city has attractions and events to draw people out.
Christchurch always has something ‘On Show,’ but spring in Christchurch takes it to a whole new level. So what are you waiting for? Venture out for an adventure. It’s spring, and Ōtautahi Christchurch is ‘On Show’.
Dine at Riverside Market
It’s not a day in the central city without some time spent at Riverside Market. This indoor seven day a week farmers’ market sells local produce and treats, and includes a karaoke bar, brewery, cooking school, and cuisine from every corner of the globe.
Central City Shopping
The central city streets are filled with local clothing designers, flagship international brands and boutique shops. Check out Ballantynes for all your style needs, and head across Colombo to The Crossing for specialist designers and global brands.
Dine outside in Christchurch
Go alfresco with the weather warming up. There’s nothing like basking in the sun over lunch or a few drinks. Head to Smash Palace for a quirky vibe with beers served out of a converted bus. Or head to OGB for their famous burgers and enjoy live music in their courtyard. For after work drinks, the Pink Lady Rooftop Bar is great with breath-taking views and a cocktail menu to match.
Get up to Speed
Christchurch Adventure Park is a zipline and downhill mountain biking heaven. It’s home to the country’s longest zipline (it’s more than 1km long and you reach speeds of over 100km/h) and a chairlift to take you right up the Port Hills. Their café serves local craft beers and pizza.
Soak at He Puna Taimoana
New Brighton is one of Christchurch’s favourite beachside suburbs, and their hot pools are a big draw card. You’ll find He Puna Taimoana tucked within the sand dunes with big views of the city’s famous New Brighton Pier. They cap numbers so book ahead online.
Nightlife in the City
Christchurch central city is dripping with late-night spots to enjoy post-match. Head to The Terrace for the city’s best line up of restaurants and bars (most turn into dance parties after dessert), or check out Victoria St for boutique spots and laneways to explore. Find rooftop bars and basement cocktail lounges. Whatever your vibe, you’ll find your spot in Christchurch.
Day trip to Akaroa
Akaroa is Christchurch’s favourite coastal retreat sitting at the heart of Banks Peninsula. French flavour combined with Māori heritage to create the unique vibe of the old town that boasts fine-dining restaurants and casual cafes, wildlife boat cruises and an almost guaranteed chance to see the Hector’s Dolphin – the world’s smallest.
Street Art Tours
Christchurch was named by Lonely Planet as a street art capital in 2017, alongside the likes of New York and Berlin. There is a range of new large-scale murals around the CBD, and there are regular guided tours.
