Handpicked by a Christchurch Local Expert, we bring you our guide to 'Bucket List Christchurch'.
As the largest city on the South Island, the picturesque setting of Christchurch has a wide range of sights and activities to enjoy. Our 'Christchurch Bucket List' highlights those must try experiences that are such a drawcard for visitors coming to the 'garden city'.

Punting on the Avon is an iconic experience in Christchurch. From the comfort of cushioned seats in your punt, enjoy a relaxing and peaceful tour along the River Avon to see Christchurch from a different perspective. Admire the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens or the changing face of the city centre as you are gently guided along the Avon River from one of two sites on the Edwardian...More info

Canterbury Museum and its collections have been enjoyed by visitors from across the world for over 130 years. The collections include over 2.1 million items including Antarctic expeditions, the settlement history of Canterbury and natural history. The museum is located on Rolleston Avenue, next door to the Botanic Gardens. Pricing: Entry to Canterbury Museum is free; donations are a...More info

Offering 360-degree views over Christchurch, the gondola provides visitors with a spectacular vista and fantastic photo opportunities. The journey to 500 metres above sea level takes about 10 minutes in a fully enclosed cable car. At the top visitors can stretch their legs with a walk on one of the many Port Hills tracks or simply sit and take in the view stretches to the Southern Alps in...More info

One of Christchurch's iconic attractions, hop on board a beautifully restored heritage tram through the rapid re-development of Christchurch City Centre. It's a relaxing way to learn about the history of Christchurch with a spot of sightseeing. Insightful and friendly drivers offer guided commentary on the city and the major landmarks. A day-long ticket allows you to hop on and off ...More info

With its spectacular curved glass frontage designed to evoke the form of the River Avon, the Christchurch Art Gallery is the city's premier art exhibition space. Housing works by both New Zealand and international artists, the gallery has a mix of permanent and changing exhibitions. Audio tours are available as well as tours given by gallery volunteers. Some tours include sign language in...More info

The International Antarctic Centre brings you close to Antarctica without leaving New Zealand. #morecool Visitors can immerse themselves in the snow and ice by sheltering in an ice cave, slide down an icy slope, brave the wind chill machine at -18 degrees Celsius and experience a simulated Antarctic Storm that occurs every hour. There are also plenty of displays covering the history ...More info

Hagley Park is a large expansive park centrally located in Christchurch that covers an area of 407 acres (165 hectares) and is at the heart of Christchurch life. The park was created in 1855 by the Provincial Government. The park includes a 12 hole golf course, netball courts, football and rugby pitches. Hagley Park is divided into North and South parks split by Riccarton Avenue. The park is...More info

Located just five minutes from Christchurch Airport, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a family attraction that combines conservation, wildlife and Maori culture. The reserve is home to 50 different types of animals and up to 500 individual animals, wandering free and housed in individually designed enclosures. Explore three zones to learn about the county's endangered wildlife. Vis...More info

Experience one of the world's greatest train journeys aboard our TranzAlpine train. Experience the South Island’s striking natural landscape with a train journey between Christchurch and Greymouth. Along this journey you’ll see epic vistas, travel the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River, traverse the Southern Alps, and see miles of native beech forest. ...More info

Find out more about the devastating 2011 Christchurch earthquake from the people it affected most. The 2010 and 2011 earthquakes that hit Christchurch devastated the city and hugely affected residents, business owners and visitors to the city. The Quake City exhibition explores how the city reacted to the earthquake and has moved on from the events. The exhibition includes personal stories f...More info