Christchurch Travel Guide | Friends Trip

Q: Where can I find the best local coffee?

Try Addington Coffee Co-op or C1 Espresso in the city centre for an authentic Christchurch coffee experience, popular with locals.

Q: Is there a scenic spot locals recommend for a walk?

Head to the Port Hills and take the Summit Road or the Rapaki Track; they’re favorites among locals for panoramic views of the city and Lyttelton Harbour.

Q: When is the best time to visit Christchurch Botanic Gardens?

Locals love the Botanic Gardens in late spring (October-November) or early autumn (March), when the flowers are at their best and the weather is pleasant.

Q: Where do locals go for great fish and chips?

Visiting Sumner Beach and grabbing fish and chips from Red Snapper or Lyttelton’s Fisherman’s Wharf is a classic local experience.

Q: How can I get around the city easily?

Locals frequently use the Metro bus service and Lime electric scooters for short trips across the central city. The Christchurch Tram is a fun way to explore key sights downtown.

Introduction

Christchurch, located on New Zealand’s South Island, is known as the “Garden City,” with stunning parks and a mix of English heritage and Māori culture. In late July, expect crisp winter weather—cool days (around 8–12°C), clear skies, and cozy evenings at local cafés.

Wander the Botanic Gardens or take the Christchurch Tram for a fun group activity. Enjoy quirky street art, lively markets, and affordable eats in the city’s revitalized downtown. For a memorable outing with friends, try an evening at one of Christchurch’s friendly pubs or embark on a scenic day trip to nearby snow-covered hills.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates21-28 July 2026

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, resort, villa

Interests and Activities:

gastronomyoutdoor adventuresnightlife and entertainmentsightseeing and toursfestivals and events

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Key Facts

Location

Canterbury Region

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Religion

Christianity (most common)

Population

389,300

Language

English, Māori, Samoan

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type I plugs

Time zone

UTCNZST/NZDT (UTC+13)

Country code

+64

Internet access

Widely available, high-speed broadband and 4G/5G

Climate

Temperate oceanic; mild summers, cool winters

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Map

Logistics

Christchurch is easily reached by air, with Christchurch International Airport serving direct flights from major New Zealand cities like Auckland and Wellington, as well as from Australia. For budget-friendly travel with friends, consider booking flights early and comparing airlines for deals. Regular airport shuttles, taxis, or public buses connect the airport to the city center.

For scenic routes, intercity buses and trains link Christchurch to other South Island destinations like Queenstown, Dunedin, and Picton. The TranzAlpine train between Christchurch and Greymouth is especially popular for stunning mountain views. Winter weather from July 21-28 can sometimes affect transport, so check for possible delays if traveling during those dates. No regular ferries run directly to Christchurch, but you can catch the ferry from Wellington to Picton, then a bus or train south.

Weather

Christchurch enjoys a temperate, oceanic climate with distinct seasons. Summers (December to February) are mild and dry, with average highs around 22°C (72°F). Winters (June to August) are cool, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 12°C (34°F to 54°F); frost is common, but snowfall is rare in the city center.

From July 21 to July 28, expect chilly, crisp winter days—ideal for exploring the city’s vibrant gastronomy scene or enjoying cozy nightlife. Occasional rain or fog is possible, but extreme weather is unlikely. For outdoor adventures, dress warmly, or take in Canterbury’s scenic landscapes on a winter sightseeing tour. Local festivals and events may celebrate the winter season during your visit.

Food & Drink

Christchurch’s cuisine showcases New Zealand classics like green-lipped mussels, Canterbury lamb, fish and chips, and fresh local produce. Don’t miss savoring a flat white coffee or local craft beers. For sweet treats, try a classic hokey pokey ice cream or a slice from a bakery.

Great spots for friends include Little High Eatery (a lively food hall with diverse options), Dux Central (craft beers and vegetarian fare), and Fiddlesticks for contemporary Kiwi dishes. Riverside Market is perfect for sampling street food or gourmet bites within your budget.

Tipping is not customary, though small gratuities for great service are appreciated. There are plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices, and many spots use local, seasonal ingredients, making every meal fresh and interesting.

Hangi

Hangi is a traditional Maori method of cooking food using heated rocks buried in a pit oven. The...

Pavlova

Pavlova is a beloved dessert consisting of a meringue base topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits, such...

Lamb Roast

Lamb Roast is a classic New Zealand dish featuring succulent roasted lamb, often seasoned with rosemary and garlic,...

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream

Hokey Pokey Ice Cream is a quintessential New Zealand treat made with vanilla ice cream and golden nuggets...

Whitebait Fritters

Whitebait Fritters are a popular Kiwi dish made with a delicate mixture of whitebait, eggs, and seasoning, pan-fried...

Accommodation

Christchurch has fantastic mid-range hotels and boutique properties, with central neighborhoods like the City Centre and Victoria Street offering easy access to shops, bars, and attractions. Popular hotels such as Crowne Plaza Christchurch, The George, and Fable Christchurch deliver stylish comfort at moderate prices. Use Hotels.com to compare rates and check guest reviews for the best deals.

If you’re after more space, consider villas or serviced apartments like Quest Cathedral Junction, which are perfect for groups of friends. Resorts are less common in Christchurch, but some hotels include pool and spa facilities. For July 21–28, book early since winter is a popular season—especially due to ski trips heading to the nearby Southern Alps.

Itinerary

Day 1

July 22 · Wednesday

Kick off your trip with a lively introduction to Christchurch’s culinary delights and cultural hotspots while settling in with your friends.

Stroll and Snack in Riverside Market

Kick off your Christchurch adventure by exploring Riverside Market, a vibrant indoor market packed with local eateries, artisan food stalls, and shops. It’s a fun, casual way for your group to sample New Zealand’s best flavors and mingle with locals in a lively atmosphere.

Riverside Market, 96 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

Tramway City Sightseeing Loop

Hop aboard the iconic Christchurch Tram for a hop-on, hop-off ride through the city’s historic heart. This relaxed tour lets you see major sights, like Cathedral Square and New Regent Street, while learning about local history with friends.

Christchurch Tram, 109 Worcester Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

Evening Drinks & Bites on New Regent Street

Spend your evening sampling trendy bars and eateries on picturesque New Regent Street. Enjoy craft cocktails, tapas, and the buzzing nightlife, all set amid pastel art deco architecture—perfect for toasting your first day!

New Regent Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

Off The Beaten Track- Packhorse Hut Guided Walk(Small Group Tour)

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Free Cancellation

On this stunning journey to Packhorse Hut, we visit all four of the historic “rest houses” that were once part of a grand walking experience over the Port Hills. The hut is situated on a saddle above Lyttelton Harbour with unforgettable views of the Harbour and Banks Penninsula. This scenic drive and walking tour start in Christchurch by driving up the Port Hills following the historical track up Dyer’s Pass road before heading south along Summit Road to Gebbies Pass. Our walk starts and finishes at Gebbie’s pass, is approximately 11km (6.8 Mi) and takes most groups 3-4 hrs of walking to reach the hut and return to Gebbie’s Pass. The track follows a gravel road before heading into pine forests. After 45mins we break out of the trees into open tussock grasslands. Reaching Packhorse Hut, you will time to explore the area while your guide prepares lunch. On the return journey, we return to Gebbies Pass then follow the scenic coastal road back to Christchurch.

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Travel Guide for Christchurch

Introduction

Key Facts

Map

Logistics

Weather

Food & Drink

Accommodation

Itinerary

Day 1

Stroll and Snack in Riverside Market

Tramway City Sightseeing Loop

Evening Drinks & Bites on New Regent Street

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Attractions

FAQ

Travel Essentials

Related Guides

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Travel Guide for
Christchurch