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Local Host Picks

CHRISTCHURCH GONDOLA

For incredible views of the Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, Pegasus Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the Kaikoura Ranges, take a ride on the Christchurch Gondola.

SUMNER BEACH

Hit Sumner Beach for swimming, surfing, and fun in the sand, a bus ride of about 40 minutes from city. There are plenty of cafes and stores on The Esplanade and in nearby Sumner village.

HONEY POT CAFÉ

Sightseeing requires energy, and you can get loads of it at the warm and cozy Honey Pot Café. Stop here for the giant “Full Breakky” breakfast and fuel up for the day.

UNTOUCHED WORLD

Head to this store in the Arts Centre for a great selection of ethically-made luxury garments. Then enjoy an organic lunch in the shop’s Native Garden Café.

PUNTING ON THE AVON

The Avon River flows through the city of Christchurch, and you can float through this charming city as well. Relax on the velvet cushions of your boat as an Edwardian punter propels you through the prettiest stretches of Christchurch.

TRAITEUR OF MERIVALE

Watching the punters float by is as peaceful as being on a boat yourself. Before making your way to the banks of the Avon, head to this gourmet take-out shop for a grand selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts to create a fantastic picnic. 

QUAKE CITY

Delve deeper into the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes at Quake City, a unique multi-sensory attraction coordinated by the Canterbury Museum.

THE TANNERY

Just 15 minutes by taxi from downtown lies The Tannery, one of the first brick factory warehouses in Christchurch fully rebuilt into a shopping center. Enjoy local shops, cafes and two restaurants including The Brewery.

WAIPARA VALLEY WINERIES

If time permits, take a trip out to the Canterbury wine region, just 45 minutes north of Christchurch. Stop for lunch at one of two stand out wineries with a good reputation for their cuisine at Pegasus Bay or Waipara Springs. With over 30 unique wineries to choose from, the hardest part is finding the enough time to try them all!