Destination Guide - Christchurch

  • Sail away in ChristchurchSheep on the South IslandAkaroa, South IslandVineyard, Marlborough
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Although small, Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and its village-style centre is easy to navigate – visit bustling Cathedral Square Market or take a gondola ride above the city to the rim of the Mount Cavendish crater. Christchurch is also a great central location with access to other regions worth exploring including: Canterbury, Akaroa, Marlborough and Mount Hutt.

The Basics

Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZ$)
Population: 340,000
Time zone: +12
Daylight savings: Last Sunday in October to last Sunday in March
Languages: English and Maori
Country code: +64
Area code: 3
Electricity voltage: 230V
Electricity hz: 50Hz
Electrical plugs: Australian-style plug with two flat angled blades and one vertical grounding blade
Mobile network: GSM

Highlights

  • Cathedral Square Market
  • Christchurch Art Gallery
  • Gondola rides

Events

  • 6 February
    Waitangi Day

Weather

Average temperatures in summer (December to February) are approximately 25°C. In winter (June to August) temperatures average 10-13 °C.

Getting there and around

Christchurch is small enough to get around on foot. The bus system is an efficient option. Taxis are also available. Hire a car if you’re exploring the greater Christchurch region.

Book a flight

Further reading

Here are some suggestions for other destinations near Christchurch and around New Zealand.

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