Escape to Christchurch: A 5-Day Romantic Adventure

Fall in love all over again in the romantic haven of Christchurch, New Zealand.

22 April 2023

A romantic trip to Christchurch, New Zealand offers couples the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the beautiful botanical gardens, venture out to the scenic Banks Peninsula, or simply enjoy a cozy dinner for two overlooking the Avon River. With its stunning natural beauty and charming local culture, Christchurch is the perfect destination for a romantic escape.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Adventure

  • Check into the Heritage Christchurch Hotel and admire the stunning Renaissance-style architecture
  • Explore the Botanic Gardens and enjoy a picnic lunch by the Avon River
  • Take a thrilling helicopter ride over the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps
  • Indulge in a romantic dinner at Pescatore, a fine-dining restaurant with ocean views
  • Enjoy a nightcap at The Last Word, a cozy speakeasy-style bar with live jazz music
Day 2

Discovering Christchurch's History

  • Take a walking tour of the city's historic landmarks, including the Christchurch Cathedral and the Arts Centre
  • Visit the Canterbury Museum and learn about the region's Maori and colonial history
  • Take a scenic tram ride through the city center and hop off to explore local boutiques and cafes
  • Visit the Quake City exhibit to learn about the devastating earthquakes that struck the city in 2010 and 2011
  • Dine at Twenty Seven Steps, a restaurant specializing in locally-sourced cuisine
Day 3

Beaches and Bistros

  • Drive to the picturesque coastal town of Akaroa and take a dolphin watching tour in the harbour
  • Relax at the scenic Okains Bay Beach and enjoy a picnic lunch
  • Explore Christchurch's up-and-coming food and drink scene, stopping at The Tannery for artisanal cheeses and craft beer
  • Dine at Little High Eatery, a food hall with a variety of local eateries to choose from
  • Take in a show at the Isaac Theatre Royal, a beautifully restored heritage theatre
Day 4

Wine Tasting and Wildlife

  • Take a day trip to the Waipara Valley wine region and visit some of the area's top wineries
  • Visit the Orana Wildlife Park and see exotic animals up close
  • Check out the street art scene in Christchurch's hipster suburb of Lyttleton
  • Dine at Chillingworth Road, a restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and extensive wine list
  • Catch a performance at the Court Theatre, the largest professional theatre company in the South Island
Day 5

Adventures in the Mountains

  • Take a scenic drive to Arthur's Pass National Park and hike one of the area's stunning trails
  • Visit the Canterbury Ski Fields for snowboarding or skiing
  • Relax at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa
  • Dine at The Monday Room, a chic bar and restaurant offering a modern take on classic New Zealand dishes
  • Watch the sunset from the top of the Christchurch Gondola, with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Christchurch, New Zealand by plane is to fly into Christchurch International Airport from major international airports such as Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. You can also fly from other regional airports within New Zealand such as Auckland or Wellington.

Car

Driving to Christchurch, New Zealand is a great option if you want to explore the stunning scenery of the South Island. The most popular route is to travel from Auckland to Wellington, and then take the Interislander ferry to Picton. From Picton, you can drive down the east coast to Christchurch.

Train

There is no direct train service to Christchurch, New Zealand. However, you can take the TranzAlpine train from Greymouth on the West Coast of the South Island, which is renowned for its stunning scenery.

Boat

You can take a cruise ship to Christchurch, New Zealand which docks at the Lyttelton Port. Another option is to take the Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton and then drive down the east coast to Christchurch.

Bus

The best way to get to Christchurch, New Zealand by bus is to take a direct bus service from major cities such as Auckland, Wellington or Queenstown. Alternatively, you can take a hop-on-hop-off bus service to explore the South Island at your own pace.

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