Christchurch Things to Do

The historic, stone, Lyttelton Timeball Station, on a hill overlooking Christchurch's picturesque Lyttelton Harbour, was built in an era when the region's only links with the outside world were by sea. For over 50 years, from 1... more

Hidden behind bushes, beside the busy seaside road from Christchurch to Sumner, sits the small, whitewashed, sod house, known as Cobb Cottage. The Avon River (Otakaro) estuary and Heathcote River (Opawaho), lie in the backgroun... more

The Christchurch Town Hall was opened in 1972, when its radical design, by local architects Warren and Mahoney, attracted some controversy. It is now an acknowledged masterpiece, still winning awards for its remarkable architec... more

Christchurch prides itself on its preservation of historic buildings and structures. A short walk through the city will give you a taste of its heritage. Begin with the Square, taking in the Cathedral, Bailey's Building and the... more

Built in 1862, the elegant wooden Christchurch Club building, overlooking Latimer Square, was an important centre for social and political life in Christchurch's early years. Just down the road from Cathedral Square, with its l... more

Built in 1858, Christchurch's wooden and stone, Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings housed the first European-styled government in Canterbury, (one of ten New Zealand self-governing districts at that time), for eighteen yea... more

Captain Robert Falcon Scott was leader of the ill-fated British expedition to the South Pole, which set out from Christchurch in 1910. After reaching the pole in 1912, Scott's entire party perished on the return journey. Facing... more

"Awesome" is the word here. Interactive models and exhibitions challenge visitors to solve problems, explore the properties of science and enjoy simulated rides and experiences. Learn about bugs and dinosaurs, motors, energy an... more

High on a hill, overlooking the seaside suburb of Sumner, are the remarkable biblically-themed, privately-owned Gethsemane Gardens. With stunning views of the city, the ocean and the alps, the three hectares of immaculate garde... more

Garden City Helicopters offer a range of flights that provide not only panoramic views of Canterbury but fun activities as well. Choose from the standard five-minute City Scenic Flight, the 15-minute Lyttleton Harbor Flight and... more