Discover Christchurch: Is It the Ultimate Travel Destination?
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Christchurch and Beyond: A Journey Through Culture, Nature, and Culinary Delights
When I told my hairdresser, who was born and bred in New Zealand, that I was going to Christchurch for three days, her response was, “Why?”.
This is a fair question. From her perspective, most people she knows either leave Christchurch or don’t know it’s even a place.
I am from Melbourne, and when we see travel advertisements for New Zealand, we see the powder-perfect ski runs in Queenstown, we know the thrill sports on offer in Auckland, we see the cultural experiences in Rotorua, we see the opportunity to stop on route to North America, and we see the beauty of the Cook Islands. We are not shown the smaller towns like Dunedin or Christchurch.
Everyone I’ve ever met from New Zealand has been a pretty cool person
It’s like the Tasmanian equivalent of Australia; no one has ever met a person from Tasmania who wasn’t laid-back and friendly. (Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, but this is my blog post and my opinion!) My co-founder and I saw a tech summit in Christchurch over a weekend, and we thought it best to visit!
(Subsequently, the tech summit was rescheduled to the following weekend, but we had already booked the flights and accommodation and had teed up the most incredible father-in-law on earth to look after the kids, so a 3-day getaway to Christchurch was the plan in action.)
I consider myself a well-travelled person. Before I started my business, I spent some time creating a travel blog that I never published. I never posted it because, firstly, I was offended by my website design (the UX, as I now know it is referred to), and I didn’t think anyone would care to read or subscribe to my voyages around the globe.
Why do I suggest Christchurch?
I 100% suggest Christchurch as the perfect weekend getaway.
I suggest Christchurch for foodies wanting to experience incredible restaurants with amazing fit-outs and fabulous service.
I suggest Christchurch for families who want to go somewhere with kids that is clean and easy to navigate.
I suggest Christchurch for a romantic weekend, drinking wine and enjoying beautiful scenery.
Here are my suggestions in detail:
Where to stay
This is where we stayed. I will keep recommending this hotel until I can no longer speak, type, or point.
I found this boutique hotel in a Scoopon Travel deal.
The photos they posted looked great, and the prices were reasonable.
Our Scoopon package included:
- Our accommodation.
- A welcome bottle of wine.
- A cheese board (reason enough to stay right here).
However, when we checked in, the gorgeous concierge lady said, “Your cheese board is in your room, but we didn’t send up the wine yet because we were unsure if you wanted red or white or even what type of wine you like.”
Consider me shocked.
In the best possible way.
I have travelled through Tuscany, been to Stellenbosch, and driven through the Montepulciano Wine Region. I’ve even spent my fair share of time in the Mornington Peninsula and the Barossa Valley, and I have never been asked what wine I would prefer to enjoy as a comp in my room upon arrival.
Whilst I stood there gobsmacked by this heaven-sent question, my husband was busy telling them he wanted a red, a shiraz, something from New Zealand, and not too light. (Gift horse in the Mouth?!)
As promised, the wine knocked at the door before we put the bags down, and the husband was presented with his bottle of Shiraz. (As I always say, Happy Husband, Happy Shopping Expeditions.)
As someone who has stayed in many hotels, Hotel Montreal was incredible!
The location was also brilliant. We were within a mere 10-minute walking distance of many incredible restaurants, bars and shopping.
I must give a special shout-out to the chefs at the Polo Restaurant and Lounge, which is the flagship restaurant of this boutique hotel. The breakfast was an “included-in-your-package” buffet for the masses.
Each morning, we were served our perfectly percolated coffees of choice and fresh juices squeezed to order. We could order whatever we wanted and as much as we wanted from the delectable a la carte menu. The breakfast dishes were all made from fresh local produce and served by the friendliest staff, who also worked as concierges, receptionists, and behind the bar if needed.
This was my second choice of hotel that I considered booking when I started looking for accommodation for this trip. The main reason was that the location was just as great as the Hotel Montreal.
The reason I chose not to stay here is because, as the hotel slut that I am, I have stayed in many hotels that are part of chains in my life, and the Wyndham group of hotels has never really wowed me.
Fable Hotels are a part of the CPG Hotels Group. CPG Hotels is one of New Zealand’s largest privately owned and operated hotel groups and is on the cusp of opening the first in a collection of stunning boutique hotels across New Zealand. Each one of their hotels features attention to detail in style and elegance.
If I had known how stylish and elegant their Christchurch site was, I would have considered it.
The Fable is also located in a perfect position. It is across from the famous New Regent Street, a small strip of restaurants, boutiques, and cafes.
Where to Eat
The coolest hotspot in town! Mexicano’s is a small restaurant packed every night of the week. They serve unique cocktails and even own the bar next door. The food was delicious; it was Mexican but so clean and delicious!
When we spoke to locals and told them we were having dinner here, every reaction was “wow”! The Athens Yacht Club has an excellent reputation for the food, but we just loved the ambience, and I must mention the lamb shoulder. I am not usually a lamb fan. But this lamb’s shoulder was out of this world, and I’m so grateful to the baby lamb that gave up its shoulders for our gastronomic experience!
Riverside Market is in the centre of the city. The actual market is a food sampler’s paradise, where you can find various cuisines peddling their finest offerings. We even found a candy shop that had so many flavours of liquorice that it would have made Willy Wonka jealous!
Surrounding the market are many fast-food eateries, shops, and fine-food restaurants. If you are still trying to figure out where to eat, walk around the Riverside Precinct, and you will find something to delight in!
King of Snake is famous in Christchurch for its Asian-fusion menu.
My husband wanted yum cha, but I did not. King of Snake was the middle ground. My only wish is that I had gone there hungrier than I was because each dish we tried was better than the next. Highly Recommend.
Where To Drink
Everywhere!
There are plenty of places to find wine in Christchurch. Every restaurant we visited had a full bar specializing in various cocktails. Perhaps this is why we never ventured too far from the city!
When I travel, I love to make friends with the locals. They always have the best advice: get off the tourist roads. While visiting a bar, we met this great girl who told us we had to try The Austin Club. While shopping, a salesgirl also told us we had to check it out.
The Austin Club is a hidden bar, a speakeasy, hidden in between two buildings within the city. You can only attain access by telling the door attendant the password, which you must find on their website. It changes daily, so you’ll need the password to get in.
It has to be said that I love a play on words! Boo’s called my name with its neon sign from down the street. The husband and I were too early for dinner and thought we would walk.
200 metres down from our hotel, I saw this sign, and the choices to have a drink were Boo’s or a place called The Bog.
I’m sure The Bog is excellent, but where I come from, I would rather ingest Boo’s than a Bog—just saying.
The cocktail man/bartender at Boo’s was a serious professional. He mixed drinks with a passion that I had not seen in years. He knew what flavours went with what, and he shook them and strained these cocktails with true love. The result was an evening of pre-dinner drinks that left us almost unable to see clearly.
The Craft Embassy was our first destination when we arrived in Christchurch.
I was hungry, and because we left our children at home, I felt it was only fair to enjoy a glass of wine when it would be school pick-up time in Melbourne. So we found this place accidentally. I am no beer drinker, and The Craft Embassy has many craft beers on tap. I went for the charcuterie.
Charcuterie.
Nothing makes me happier than a generous charcuterie board.
And when there are pickles on said board, it’s a heavenly experience.
The charcuterie at The Craft Embassy was everything my cured-meat-and-cheese dreams were made of.
Kong’s would not have been a destination I would have known about if not for their street A-frame that said “Happy Hour—3 x Espresso Martinis for $30”.
After our “welcome to Christchurch charcuterie board” at the Craft Embassy, we saw this sign as we returned to our hotel.
To be fair, it was coffee time. And these espresso martinis were the perfect substitution for coffee.
The cocktail man there told us that they were open until 3 am. Daily.
Highly recommend Kongs.
Where To Shop
I will pre-apologize for what I am about to write here, but seriously, Christchurch and New Zealand as a whole are not known as shopping destinations in the world of fashion.
However, I must explain that as a busy person and a mother of dragons, I do not have time to shop in my city. So when I travel, no matter where it is, I like to peruse the stores.
Christchurch did not have anything that wowed me, but it did have every store to find the basics that a woman who lives in activewear in a cold climate needs to survive.
- Christchurch Central—around Riverside. The shops are all here. There is no need to go searching elsewhere. If you cannot find what you need in this area, Christchurch doesn’t have it.
- Ballantynes—like Myer or David Jones in Australia or Nordstroms in the USA, but with better sales and friendlier staff!
- Huffer—for stylish winter gear that uses the most comfortable fabrics. This was my only “hidden gem” of shopping. I went to Huffer twice. All I bought were hoodies and jumpers, but they are so comfy that they have now joined the “day wear” part of my wardrobe as staples.
Where To Play
Rooftop Bars: Everyone loves a rooftop bar these days.
It’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the scenery of the place you are in. Here are my picks for sites to check out:
Stranges Lane Rooftop Bar: Located in the heart of Christchurch, this bar offers a fantastic view of the city skyline. It’s a great spot for evening drinks, and the ambience is perfect for both families and groups of friends. They often have live music, adding to the lively atmosphere.
The Terrace: This is not a single rooftop bar but a collection of various bars and eateries on a multi-level terrace. You can find multiple options here, from casual to upscale, each offering a unique view of the Avon River and the city. It’s a great place to explore different types of cuisine and cocktails.
Pink Lady Rooftop Bar: Situated atop the Muse Art Hotel, this bar offers a chic and artistic vibe. The Pink Lady is known for its stylish decor and panoramic city views. It’s an excellent spot for those who appreciate elegance and sophistication in their evening outings.
O.G.B Bar & Café: While not a traditional rooftop bar, it deserves mention for its outdoor courtyard that offers a unique open-air experience. Housed in a heritage building, it blends history and modernity. It is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of character with their drinks.
Wineries: As I mentioned earlier, New Zealand is a wine lover’s dream! Check out some of these spots:
Pegasus Bay Winery: Located in the Waipara Valley, north of Christchurch, Pegasus Bay is renowned for its exceptional wines, especially Riesling and Pinot Noir. The winery offers a beautiful garden setting and an on-site restaurant that serves exquisite local cuisine, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.
Waipara Hills Winery: In the Waipara Valley, this winery is known for its award-winning wines and stunning views of the surrounding hills. They offer wine tastings and have a lovely café where visitors can enjoy local produce. The vineyard’s picturesque setting makes it a favourite among photographers and nature lovers.
Black Estate: This is a family-run organic winery in Waipara, famous for its Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. The tasting room offers a panoramic view of the vineyards, and their restaurant serves dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. It’s an excellent place for those interested in organic and sustainable winemaking.
Greystone Wines is another gem in the Waipara Valley known for its organic and handcrafted wines. The winery offers guided tastings and vineyard tours, providing an insightful experience of the winemaking process. Their Pinot Noir and Riesling are particularly noteworthy.
Melton Estate: Located a short drive from Christchurch, Melton Estate is a boutique winery that offers a range of wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and their popular Summer Love Sparkling. The estate has a lovely restaurant and is a popular venue for weddings and events.
Honorable Mentions:
Akaroa
Akaroa is a picturesque seaside town near Christchurch in the heart of an ancient volcano on the Banks Peninsula. It’s a fantastic destination, blending history, natural beauty, and culinary delights.
Places to See in Akaroa:
Akaroa Harbour: The harbour is a stunning natural setting, ideal for scenic cruises where you can spot dolphins, penguins, and seals. The serene blue waters against the backdrop of rugged hills are a sight to behold.
The Giants House: This unique and whimsical sculpture and mosaic garden is a must-visit. The vibrant and colourful garden is a visual feast created by artist Josie Martin. It offers a delightful experience for all ages.
Hinewai Reserve: A nature reserve with a network of walking trails through native bush. It’s a great place for hiking and bird-watching, offering spectacular peninsula views.
Akaroa Lighthouse: Situated on the harbour’s edge, the historic Akaroa Lighthouse is a short walk from the town centre. It’s a great spot for photos and offers a glimpse into the area’s maritime history.
Barry’s Bay Cheese: On the way to Akaroa, stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese for a taste of locally made, traditional New Zealand cheese. They offer cheese tastings, and you can watch the cheese-making process.
Places to eat in Akaroa:
The Little Bistro: Known for its cozy atmosphere and superb cuisine, The Little Bistro offers a range of dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Their menu features both local and international flavours.
Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar: Located on the waterfront, this place is known for its stunning views and diverse menu that caters to all tastes, including fresh seafood.
Vangionis Trattoria and Bar: For a taste of the Mediterranean in Akaroa, Vangionis offers fantastic Italian and Greek dishes in a relaxed and friendly setting.
The Brasserie Kitchen and Bar: This is a great spot for a casual meal, offering a range of dishes, including local seafood, burgers, and salads. They also have a good selection of local wines and beers.
Akaroa Fish and Chips: For a more casual dining experience, Akaroa Fish and Chips is a must-try. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy classic New Zealand fish and chips near the beach.
Akaroa is a delightful blend of natural beauty, history, and culinary experiences. The town’s relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere make it particularly appealing for trips with teenagers, offering both adventure and leisure in a beautiful setting.
Hanmer
Ninety minutes from Christchurch, nestled within mountain ranges, lies Hanmer Springs. This alpine town offers everything from ultimate relaxation to thrill-seeking adventures.
Everyone who knew Christchurch said a day trip to Hanmer was essential.
Now, if we had not spent so much time eating and drinking our way through the city, we would have gone for sure. So, I am adding this to our suggestions list because, when I return to Christchurch with my kids, Hanmer will be our first adventure!
Hanmer offers everything, from adrenaline-seeking activities like bungee and jet boarding to day spas and opportunities to get up close and personal with marine life. I was told that at certain times of the year, you may be lucky to see killer whales in Hanmer!
Where to Culture
Christchurch experienced the devastation of an enormous earthquake in 2009. Although I knew about the earthquake from the news at the time, I never really understood the magnitude of what the city went through. The town is still being rebuilt, and it’s even better than I can imagine it was before.
After speaking to many locals and hearing about their experiences in the earthquake, we decided to go and learn more about it. We found a fabulous memorial museum called Quake City.
Quake City is packed with exciting displays and interactives for all ages. You can hear from those who lived through the earthquakes and those who came to help.
You can also learn about the science behind earthquakes. It is suitable for visitors of all ages and opened our eyes to Christchurch’s devastation 10 years ago.
Extras to know
- Christchurchians/Canterbrians are the loveliest people. Everyone we met was super friendly and helpful. People said “good morning” even when they walked past. Everyone we spoke to was eager to share their favourite local haunts with us.
- Book restaurants before you go! The food scene in Christchurch is great, but it’s challenging to snag a table at the last minute. You can book online at most places, so make sure you do that so you save your eating time waiting for a table.
- Day spas—there are many, and they are great, and they are also fully booked most of the time. Apparently, self-care is essential in New Zealand, so book before you come.
- It’s Cold. We are here in June, so yes, it is winter. But there is a reason why there is an outdoor fashion stockist on every corner. You will need a jacket; if you are bald or hairless, like my husband, you will need a beanie or hat.
- Rent a car—we didn’t do this. We are the type of people who loathe organized tours and sightseeing. We enjoy walking the streets of the places we visit and discovering our own hidden gems. But everyone we spoke to before we arrived told us to rent a car. Because we stayed in Christchurch City, we walked everywhere, and they do have Uber here if you need it. However, if you intend to visit places that are further afield, renting a car before you arrive is a good idea.
- Toilet Paper — I have never considered including this as a suggestion on any travel blog I have written. However, suppose you are visiting a new city and intend to eat and drink your way through the day (as I suggest you do in Christchurch). In that case, we can all admit nothing is worse than 1-ply, scratchy toilet paper. From here on, I will heed my advice and bring my own. If you take nothing else from this blog, I encourage you to remember this.
You. Will. Thank. Me.
Christchurch is 2 hours ahead of Melbourne. This is the perfect time difference for all you Aussie travellers because it means when you roll into your hotel room at midnight, it’s only 10 pm, which means you are having an early night by default! Winning!