The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Christchurch, NZ

Discover Christchurch's charm on a budget-friendly adventure in New Zealand.

21 June 2023

Christchurch in New Zealand is a perfect destination for budget travelers. The city is replete with several free attractions, including the Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, and Christchurch Art Gallery. Additionally, travelers can save money by using public transport and shopping at local markets to experience the best of Christchurch without overspending.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Christchurch

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at the Caffeine Laboratory, known for its delicious coffee and scrumptious pancakes.
Take a stroll around the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and enjoy the vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
Head to the Canterbury Museum to learn more about New Zealand's culture and history.
Walk along the container mall, known as Re:START, made from shipping containers that were used as shops after the earthquake in 2011.
End your day with a dinner at the Dux Central, a restaurant and bar that features locally sourced ingredients and live music.
Hotel recommendation: YHA Christchurch

Day 2

Day trip to Akaroa

Start your morning with a scenic drive to Akaroa, a charming French-inspired town located on the Banks Peninsula.
Take a dolphin and wildlife cruise to see Hector's dolphins, fur seals and penguins in their natural habitat.
Enjoy lunch at the Little Bistro, a cozy eatery that serves fresh and delicious seafood.
Visit the Giant's House, an outdoor sculpture garden filled with vibrant mosaics and artwork.
End your day with a walk along the Akaroa Wharf and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the harbor.
Hotel recommendation: YHA Christchurch

Day 3

Adventure-packed day

Start your morning with an adrenaline-fueled bungee jump at the Hanmer Springs attraction or the nearby bridge jump.
Take a dip in the thermal pools and spa, located in the heart of Hanmer Springs.
Enjoy lunch at the Monteith's Brewery Bar, which offers a wide range of beers and delicious pub food.
Take a scenic drive to Canterbury's Port Hills and go paragliding, offering spectacular views of Christchurch and the surrounding areas.
End your day with a dinner at Little Pom's, known for its mouth-watering pizzas and shared plates.
Hotel recommendation: YMCA Christchurch

Day 4

Explore Banks Peninsula

Start your morning with a scenic drive to the Banks Peninsula's Kaituna Valley, home to the wild and beautiful Okain's Bay.
Visit the Okain's Bay Māori and Colonial Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the area.
Enjoy lunch at the historic Hotel Duvauchelle, which boasts a large sunny beer garden with tranquil views of the harbor.
Drive through the picturesque alternative Summit Road route overlooking the city, ocean, and Lyttelton Harbour.
End your day with a dinner at the renowned King of Snake, offering creative Asian-inspired dishes.
Hotel recommendation: YMCA Christchurch

Day 5

Farewell Christchurch

Start your morning with a visit to the Cardboard Cathedral, a unique and modern structure that was built after the 2011 earthquake.
Take a stroll through the bustling Riverside Market for fresh produce, artisan products, and street-style food.
Head to the Groynes, a picturesque park on the outskirts of the city, where you can enjoy a barbecue or picnic and even go fishing in the lake.
End your trip with a farewell dinner at the renowned Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar in the heart of Christchurch.
Hotel recommendation: YMCA Christchurch

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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