Top 5 tourist attractions in Christchurch

Christchurch is one of the best travel destinations in New Zealand. Postcard like beauty at every corner, iconic historic sites, family-friendly activities and exciting adventures. Hire a minibus in Christchurch to make sure that you will arrive at your destination safely, comfortably and on time. Find out about the top 5 attractions you must visit in Christchurch.

International Antarctic Centre

International Arctic Centre is an interactive museum providing an exceptional understanding of the world’s most isolated frozen continents. It is lies at a convenient location at the International Airport, near the departure area. The highlight of the museum is Little blue penguins. Arctic Storm simulation room is chilled at minus 5-degree Celsius and generates realist arctic storm every hour. 

Hägglund vehicle ride is an Antarctic vehicle ride. You will experience the drive across the ice, up and down hills, and through the water. Feed the penguins under rescue penguin programme and meet adorable huskies at Husky Zone. Don’t miss out on the 4d theatre experience. In Antarctica Show, you will get to experience dramatic lighting of four seasons. 

Avon River

Punting on the Avon River is a popular thing to do in Christchurch. This iconic attraction lets you experience the quiet side of Christchurch. Avon River is 14 km long. The Punt is like a narrowboat. A Punter accompanies you to operate the Punt dressed in a traditional  Edwardian costume. During your ride, a punt will tell fascinating information. 

It takes about 30-minute to finish the ride. You will come across lots of ducks along the way and also see many attractions. You can enjoy this activity in both summer and winter. Take Punt from historic Antigua Boat Shed. You can take one of the two departures. In Park Departure you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of Hagley Park on one side and Christchurch Botanic Garden on the other. City Departure will take you through the centre of the city. 

Sumner Beach

Sumner Beach is a favourite weekend getaway and day tour destination for locals and tourists alike. It is only 20 minutes drive away from CBD Christchurch. On a sunny day, soak in the sun along with a stunning view of the city, mountains, and sea. Summer is the best time to visit the beach. It is a great place to swim and learn about surfing. 

This relaxing place offers tons of activities like walking, kite flying, swimming, surfing or just chilling. Pack a picnic basket and make a day of it. Explore rock climbing at Cave Rock. It is a rough chunk of lava. It makes up for a perfect place for Instagram worthy pictures. During low tide you can walk through the cave and from top enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the sea. 

Riccarton House and Bush

Riccarton House and Bush is a New Zealand heritage site. There are two historic buildings surrounded by a beautiful garden and the Avon River. This quiet place lies 3.5 km from the city centre. The attraction here includes Riccarton House, Riccarton Bush, Deans Cottage and a restaurant. 

Riccarton House is a Victorian/Edwardian house built in three stages. The decor will take you back in time. Take a guided heritage tour of 60 minutes to know more about the history of this elegant house. Riccarton Bush is home to 600 years old tall kahikatea trees. To understand more about its national significance, take the guided bushwalking tour. Deans Cottage is a colonial cottage built from Riccarton Bush wood. At the end of the visit, treat yourself with a delicious lunch at the on-site restaurant – Local. 

Quail Island

Quail Island is the epitome of beauty. Christchurch’s best island getaway is only a short ferry ride away. You will have to take Quail Island Ferry which will drop you at the island in only 15 minutes. You can take a half-day or a full-day trip. 

The highlight of the island is the scenic walkway. The walkway passes by shipwrecks, a former leper colony and a former quarantine station used by the early European settlers. Quail Island is also an excellent place for bird watching. If you get lucky, you can spot many native sea birds.