Trip to Christchurch, New Zealand

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

Welcome to Christchurch, New Zealand! After getting settled into your accommodation, spend the day exploring the city at your leisure. You can head over to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, situated in Hagley Park, to explore diverse plant collections arranged in different themed sections suitable for all ages. Next head to the Quake City, the Canterbury Museum, and the Christchurch Art Gallery if you’re excited about learning through history and cultural experience. Complete your day with dinner at one of Christchurch’s many renowned restaurants in the central city, such as the famed New Regent Street area.

Day 2: Akaroa Day Trip

Take a day trip to the picturesque French-inspired village of Akaroa, located 75 kilometres southeast of Christchurch. You can explore the marine life in Akaroa by visiting the Akaroa Marine Reserve to swim with dolphins or take nature walks to the nearby points such as Pohatu Penguins, Scenery Nook, Onuku Marae, Onuku Farm Hostel, and many more. Experience the unique Kiwi culture while having lunch at any of the French cafes in town, including the La Boucherie and Ma Maison Restaurant.

Day 3: Gondola and Botanic Gardens

Take the scenic skyline gondola up to the Port Hills, offering unmatched views of the cityscape and the Southern Alps, which is a great way to sight-see and experience the tranquillity of nature. Along with the panoramic view, visitors can enjoy adventurous activities like zip-lining, bungee jumping, or mountain bike riding (own expense).Next head over to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens in Hagley Park to appreciate the beauty of landscape, flowers, architecture, and greenery.

Day 4: TranzAlpine Train Day Trip

Take an unforgettable TranzAlpine train ride to explore the stunning landscapes and breath-taking mountains of the New Zealand Southern Alps. The train starts its scenic journey from Christchurch and covers approximately 223 kilometres to complete the return trip. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of vast plains, farmlands, deep gorges, and stunning viaducts. You can also take a nature walk to nearby sites such as Arthur’s Pass, Otira Viaduct, and many more.

Day 5: Street Art and Shopping

Christchurch is famous for its street art, especially after the Christchurch earthquakes, as the city turned destroyed buildings into artistic canvases. Take a Street Art walk tour and appreciate the vibrant and diverse street artwork painted by local and international artists. The tour concludes in New Regent Street, where visitors can enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner in some of the most elegant cafes and restaurants in the city. Stroll over to ReStart Mall, Cashel Mall, Pop-up City Square, and Avon River Precinct to shop for boutique fashion, fashion outlets, souvenirs, gifts, and gourmet cuisine.

Day 6: Canterbury Wine Tour

Take a scenic drive to the Canterbury Plains, where some of New Zealand’s famous wine regions are located. Sign up for a Canterbury Wine Tour, and let a local guide take you through the picturesque landscapes and historical sites while tasting some of the world’s most exquisite wines. Waipara is highly recommended, with over 80 vineyards to choose from, a rich winemaking history, and soils that provide excellent growing conditions. Visitors can have lunch at the vineyard before heading back to Christchurch.

Day 7: Departure from Christchurch

Sadly, it’s time for your visit to Christchurch to end! After you’ve checked out from your accommodation, you can take some time in the morning to do any last-minute shopping or visit any local attractions that you may have missed. Later, make your way to the Christchurch airport for your flight back home or to your next destination.