Christchurch, New Zealand: The Funner’s Guide to
- Fiona Cook
- Mar 9
- 7 min read
Updated: Mar 24
Welcome to our hometown—Christchurch! As much as we love exploring the world, there’s something special about coming home to this ever-evolving, creative, and downright beautiful city. Whether you're here for a quick visit or planning to stay a while, Christchurch has plenty to offer—from stunning nature to quirky street art, great food, and unique experiences.
Oh, and you might be wondering, “What exactly is a ‘funner’?” Well, let’s quickly refresh your memory.
Funner (noun, adj.) – A person who approaches life’s unexpected twists with joy, creativity, and an unshakable sense of adventure. Coined by the one and only Katie, this term has since become our way of life. We’ve mentioned funner in other blogs before, and it’s all about finding the fun in everything and making the most of every moment! Ready to dive in? Let’s go!
Things to Do
🌿 Explore the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
One of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in the city, the Botanic Gardens are home to an incredible collection of native and exotic plants. Wander through themed gardens, from the lush New Zealand section to the fragrant rose garden, or visit the stunning tropical greenhouse. If you want to learn more, hop on the Caterpillar Garden Tour, a guided electric shuttle ride that takes you through the grounds with interesting insights along the way.
It’s also easy to extend your visit with a stroll around Hagley Park, Christchurch’s sprawling green space right next door. Depending on the time of year, you’ll be astounded by the photo opportunities—spring brings rows of delicate blossom trees that attract visitors from all over the world for those Instagram-worthy shots, while autumn transforms the park into a breathtaking canvas of red, orange, and gold. In summer, you might even catch a cricket match at Hagley Oval, one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world, or find yourself in the middle of a festival or outdoor concert. No matter the season, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike!
🚋 Ride the Christchurch Tram
The heritage tram—because who doesn't love a bit of vintage charm? With 17 stops, including attractions like New Regent Street, Riverside Market, and the Canterbury Museum, it's like a hop-on, hop-off city tour without the awkward tour guide voice over your shoulder. The tram drivers also double as stand-up comedians, giving you all the history with a healthy dose of humor.
But honestly, Christchurch is flat as a pancake, and it's an easy city to walk around—unless you’ve had one too many cheese scones and just want a seat, in which case, hop on the tram and enjoy the ride. It’s a fun way to get around, but not exactly a necessity!
🛶 Punt on the Ōtākaro (Avon) River
If you want to feel like you’re starring in a period drama (without all the drama), hop on a punt and glide down the river in Edwardian style. The punter, decked out in period attire, will guide you through the picturesque Botanic Gardens and past some of the most beautiful green spaces in the city. Perfect for that Instagram shot where you pretend you’re on a romantic date (even if you're alone with just the punter).
Not feeling so Downton Abbey? Hire a kayak instead and paddle at your own pace. Either way, the Ōtākaro River is the perfect escape from the city chaos—unless you’re prone to getting wet!
🛍 Visit Riverside Market
This lively, indoor market is a must-visit for food lovers. Riverside Market is packed with artisanal vendors, offering everything from locally made cheeses and fresh seafood to handcrafted chocolates and international street food. There are also boutique shops selling unique gifts, homewares, and souvenirs. The upstairs seating area provides great views over the bustling market floor, making it a great spot to people-watch while enjoying a coffee or craft beer.
If you’re feeling hungry, there are some absolute must-try eats here:
Dimitris – Serving up world-famous souvlakis, this Christchurch institution has been around for decades, and once you try their flavour-packed lamb souvlaki, you’ll see why people keep coming back.
Mischief Wine Bar – A fantastic spot to sample local Canterbury wines, whether you prefer a crisp sauvignon blanc or a bold pinot noir.
Cluck Cluck Slurp – A personal favourite! Their spicy ramen is next-level good, packed with rich broth, tender noodles, and just the right amount of heat.
With so much on offer, Riverside Market is an experience as much as a place to eat and shop, and it’s one of the best ways to soak up the vibrant heart of Christchurch.
🎨 Go on a Street Art Hunt
Since the earthquakes, Christchurch has become one of the best street art spots in the world. Seriously, you'll find massive murals on nearly every corner. Some are so good, you’ll wonder if they hired Banksy (spoiler: they didn’t). Head over to places like the SALT District or Lichfield Street for your own street art treasure hunt.
And while you’re at it, check out the piece behind Riverside Market. It's so realistic, you’ll swear the storefronts are 3D. Walk closer, and bam—flat wall. Prepare to have your mind blown.
🏛 Explore New Regent Street
New Regent Street is one of Christchurch’s most charming areas, featuring a row of beautifully restored pastel-colored buildings that house boutique shops, cafés, and bars. It’s a great spot to relax with a coffee or a glass of wine and soak up the atmosphere. You’ll also find many of the best-rated restaurants in Christchurch here, serving everything from gourmet cuisine to casual bites. If you’re in the mood for something quirky, be sure to stop by Rollickin Gelato, where you can try unique flavors named after local personalities—perfect for indulging your sweet tooth! At night, the street lights up, and the bars offer cozy spots for a drink, making it a vibrant area to spend the evening.
🛝 The Margaret Mahy Playground
One of the largest and best playgrounds in the Southern Hemisphere, the Margaret Mahy Playground is a paradise for kids (and fun-loving adults). Featuring giant slides, flying foxes, climbing towers, and water play areas, it’s a must-visit for families. There’s also plenty of space for picnics, making it a great stop on a sunny day. Plus, it's just a short stroll from New Regent Street, so you can easily combine a trip to the playground with a visit to this vibrant part of the city!
❄️ The Antarctic Centre
Okay, so it’s not in Antarctica, but the Antarctic Centre does a pretty good job of giving you a taste of the frozen world. From artic storm simulations to a ride in a Hagglund (basically a cool, military vehicle used in Antarctica), it’s a quirky adventure, and there’s even real-life penguins! If you’re visiting with kids, it’s a win-win for everyone involved.
🚡 Take a Ride on the Christchurch Gondola
Take the gondola up the Port Hills and get the kind of views that make you want to shout “Wow, New Zealand is beautiful!” to random strangers. The summit offers panoramic views of Christchurch, the Southern Alps, and the Canterbury Plains. It's perfect for those looking for a photo-op. If you can’t resist the view, there's a café up top for a warm drink, because you'll need it when you realize you’re on top of a hill with no elevator!
Places to Stay
Stay in a boutique hotel located in the historic Arts Centre. It’s like stepping back in time, but with better bathrooms. Quirky and comfy.
Sleek, stylish, and offering killer city views, The Mayfair is perfect for those who want modern luxury in the heart of Christchurch. Plus, you’ll be walking distance from all the cool stuff.
The Fable Christchurch is a stylish boutique hotel offering luxurious rooms and a prime location, perfect for both business and leisure stays.
If you’ve ever wanted to sleep in a converted prison, here’s your chance. Quirky and budget-friendly, Jailhouse Accommodation will make you feel like a rebellious teen without all the actual rebellion.
Places to Eat
This food hall is like a buffet of awesome, with everything from woodfired pizza to dumplings and juicy burgers. It's perfect for when you can’t decide what you want to eat and want to try a bit of everything.
For a cozy, intimate dinner, Twenty Seven Steps serves up fresh, local dishes that are perfect for a date night. If you're trying to impress someone, this place has you covered.
If you want to be cool and trendy, head to 5th Street. Small plates, great cocktails, and dishes that are just too good to share (but you probably will anyway).
Coffee that will make your morning, and brunch that’ll have you questioning every other brunch spot you've been to. Plus, it's in a historic building, which adds to the charm. Basically, this is the cool brunch place you can’t miss. Two words—Chilli Eggs! Oh, and if you're missing your four-legged friend, you're in luck—this dog-friendly café welcomes your pup too, so you can brunch and bond with your buddy at the same time!
The King of Snake serves up mind-blowing Asian cuisine. Book ahead, though, because this place is always packed. Try the Kung Pao chicken, and you’ll understand what all the fuss is about.
Day Trips from Christchurch
If you’re ready to hit the road, there are some awesome day trips just outside Christchurch. Whether you're into hot pools or dramatic coastal views, here are a few favorites:
📍 Akaroa – A picturesque town with French vibes, dolphin encounters, and coastal walks.
📍 Hanmer Springs – Hot pools, mountain views, and plenty of adventure activities like jet boating and hiking.
📍 Arthur’s Pass – Stunning alpine scenery, epic hikes, and one of New Zealand's best drives.
Follow the links to learn more about each place.
Christchurch is a city that’s constantly changing, and we love that there’s always something new to discover. Whether it’s your first time here or your tenth, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit. Let us know if you check out any of these spots—or if you find a hidden gem of your own!
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