Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, is rich in natural beauty, history, culture, and charm. Known as the “Garden City,” it is famous for its parks, river views, peaceful neighbourhoods, and friendly atmosphere. Many travellers find the city both relaxing and full of adventure, making it an ideal base for exploring the wider region.
From historic landmarks and vibrant cultural spots to scenic drives and nearby attractions, Christchurch offers something for every visitor. Having your own vehicle makes it easy to fully enjoy this variety, allowing you to explore at your own pace and reach beaches, mountains, and towns beyond the city without worrying about schedules or transport. With this in mind, let’s explore some of the top destinations Christchurch has to offer.
Christchurch City Centre blends modern architecture with historic charm, rebuilt creatively after the 2011 earthquake. The streets are lively and full of sights, with Cathedral Square as a must-visit landmark featuring the original Christchurch Cathedral, street performers, food trucks, and weekend events.
Nearby, The Terraces offers riverside restaurants, cafés, and bars, while the Riverside Market showcases local food, artisan products, and fresh produce. The city centre is also known for its vibrant street art, with murals and creative installations adding colour and character throughout the area.
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are a top attraction for nature lovers, featuring thousands of plants from around the world since 1863. Peaceful walkways, open lawns, and themed gardens make it ideal for relaxation. Visitors can explore the Rose Garden, Herb Garden, or Tropical Conservatory with colourful warm-climate plants. Families often enjoy picnics, couples like strolling shaded paths, and guided tours are available for those wanting to learn more. The gardens are close to the city centre and easily accessible by car or on foot.
Right beside the Botanic Gardens lies Hagley Park, one of the largest urban parks in New Zealand. It is a beautiful place to take a walk, run, cycle, or sit in the sun. The park is especially stunning in spring, when the cherry blossoms and daffodils bloom, and in autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold.
Hagley Park is home to cricket grounds, golf courses, and lakes, making it a popular spot for sports. Many visitors enjoy taking a peaceful stroll around Victoria Lake or watching locals play weekend sports matches. Because of its size, Hagley Park rarely feels crowded. If you are renting a car, there are several parking areas around the park, making it easy to stop and explore.
One of Christchurch’s most iconic experiences is punting on the Avon River. A punt is a flat-bottomed boat similar to the ones used in Cambridge, England. A guide stands at the back and gently pushes the boat along the river with a long pole. The ride is calm, scenic, and romantic.
As you float through the water, you will pass willow trees, gardens, and iconic buildings. It feels like stepping back in time. Punting tours are available near the Botanic Gardens and in the city centre, making it easy to add the experience to your itinerary. This is a great activity for couples, families, or anyone who wants to enjoy a peaceful moment in Christchurch.
Christchurch has a rich history, and the Canterbury Museum is the best place to learn about it. The museum features exhibits about Māori history, Antarctic exploration, early settlers, and the natural wonders of the Canterbury region. One of the highlights is the Antarctic display, as Christchurch has long been a key connection point for expeditions to the continent.
The Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities, located inside the Arts Centre, showcases ancient Greek, Roman, and Near Eastern artefacts. It is smaller but very interesting, especially if you enjoy history and archaeology. Both museums are located close to each other and near the Botanic Gardens, making them easy to visit in one trip.
If you want to see Christchurch from above, the Christchurch Gondola is an unforgettable experience. Located on the Port Hills, the gondola takes you up the mountain in a cable car. The journey is smooth and scenic, offering incredible views of the city, the Southern Alps, Lyttelton Harbour, and the coastline.
At the top, you can explore the Time Tunnel, a short attraction that takes you through interactive scenes from Christchurch’s geological past. There is also a café, gift shop, and walking tracks if you want to enjoy the mountain air. Many visitors choose to rent a car for the journey to the gondola, as the hill roads offer a fun, scenic drive.
The Port Hills are one of the most beautiful natural areas around Christchurch. The hills rise sharply between the city and Lyttelton Harbour, creating dramatic landscapes and excellent viewpoints. Popular lookouts such as the Sign of the Kiwi, Sugarloaf, and Rapaki Track offer sweeping views that are perfect for photography. The Port Hills are great for hiking, biking, or taking a scenic drive.
Just a short drive from Christchurch city centre is Sumner Beach, a charming seaside spot perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or walking along the promenade. The beach has soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of cafés for a relaxing meal with ocean views. Nearby, you will find Redcliffs and Scarborough, two small coastal villages with beautiful cliffs and walking tracks. One of the most interesting spots is Cave Rock, a large volcanic formation on the beach that you can walk through during low tide. Sumner is easy to reach by car, and it makes a great half-day or full-day trip.
Another beautiful coastal destination is New Brighton Pier, one of the most striking structures on Christchurch’s coastline. The pier stretches far into the ocean and offers amazing sunrise views. It is popular among photographers, surfers, and families enjoying a day by the sea. There are cafés and shops nearby, and on weekends, the New Brighton market often takes place.
Christchurch has a strong creative spirit, and nowhere is this more visible than at the Christchurch Arts Centre. This historic complex, built in beautiful Gothic Revival stle, hosts galleries, workshops, theatre performances, local craft shops, and exhibitions. The Arts Centre also offers regular events, night markets, and weekend activities.
Walking through the courtyard feels like stepping into a European university from centuries past. It is a peaceful and inspiring place for art lovers. Christchurch also boasts countless murals, sculptures, and pop-up art pieces across the city. Exploring these artworks is a great way to spend an afternoon, especially if you enjoy photography.
If you want to see New Zealand’s famous kiwi birds, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is one of the best places to visit. The reserve offers close encounters with native animals, farm animals, and exotic species. One of the highlights is the Ko Tāne Māori Cultural Experience, which includes traditional Māori performances, storytelling, and meals. The wildlife reserve is around a 15-minute drive from the city centre, making it easy to visit with a rental car.
A short tunnel drive from Christchurch brings you to Lyttelton, a small port town with a creative, relaxed vibe. The town is surrounded by hills and has stunning harbour views. On Saturdays, the Lyttelton Farmers Market attracts locals and visitors with fresh food, local crafts, and live music. Lyttelton is also the starting point for boat tours around the harbour, where you might spot dolphins, seabirds, and seals. With a car, it is easy to explore nearby bays such as Corsair Bay and Governors Bay.
Exploring Christchurch and its surroundings is simple with Final Rentals. Renting a car gives travellers the freedom to visit scenic spots, historic sites, and coastal towns at their own pace, making trips more flexible and convenient.
For tips on making the most of your car rental, see What Every Traveller Should Know Before Renting a Car in New Zealand.
For the easiest car rental experience, download the Final Rentals app, available on both Google Play and the App Store. The app lets you book a car, manage your trips, and access support directly from your phone, making the process quick and convenient. For a smooth and reliable way to rent a car in New Zealand, the Final Rentals app is the perfect starting point for your journey.
Christchurch is a city brimming with beauty, creativity, and adventure, offering everything from tranquil gardens and historic landmarks to scenic hilltops, beaches, and wildlife. Exploring the city and the wider Canterbury region becomes even more enjoyable when you rent a car in New Zealand with Final Rentals, giving you the freedom to travel at your own pace.
Whether strolling through Hagley Park, riding the Christchurch Gondola, relaxing at Sumner Beach, exploring Lyttelton, or taking a scenic trip to Akaroa, each experience is unforgettable. Rent a car with Final Rentals and explore Christchurch and its surroundings at your own pace, to discover hidden gems, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences along the way!
