Roberta Aguirre
Christchurch Airport in New Zealand has a lot to offer travellers, from shops and services to attractions and events. The airport itself has table tennis tables and a giant puzzle for visitors to enjoy. A short walk from the airport, you can find the International Antarctic Centre, which has been voted New Zealand's best attraction twice. Christchurch is also known as the ''Garden City' and has beautiful botanical gardens, as well as a variety of shops, restaurants, bars and hotels. For those looking for adventure, there are several golf courses and wineries nearby, as well as hiking trails and beaches.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Christchurch, New Zealand |
| Airport Code | CHC |
| Nearby Attractions | Christchurch Helicopters, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, TranzAlpine Train, Canterbury Museum, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, Christchurch Gondola, International Antarctic Centre, Quake City, 185 Empty White Chairs - Earthquake Memorial, Hagley Park, Christchurch City Centre, Waipara Wine Trail, Akaroa Harbour, Avon River, Golf Courses, Christchurch Trams, Orana Wildlife Park, Lyttleton Harbour, Godley Head Walkway, Crater Rim Walkway, New Brighton Beach, Sumner Beach, Waimairi Beach, North and South Brighton Beach |
| Airport Amenities | Shops, Restaurants, Information Desks, Table Tennis Tables, Giant Puzzle, Bicycles |
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What You'll Learn
- Explore the city centre and its colourful street art, shops, restaurants, bars and hotels
- Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, International Antarctic Centre and Canterbury Museum
- Play table tennis and giant puzzles at the airport
- Take a Christchurch Trams tour, or kayak along the Avon River
- Go hiking and surfing at the beaches of New Brighton and Sumner
Explore the city centre and its colourful street art, shops, restaurants, bars and hotels
Christchurch is a city known for its incredible cafés, green spaces, and close proximity to day trips and adventures throughout the region. The city centre is a great place to explore, with its colourful street art, unique shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels.
Street Art
Christchurch is known for its colourful street art and murals. Take a walk through the city centre and discover the vibrant artworks that adorn the walls of buildings and laneways. The Arts Centre, in particular, is a hub for local craft makers and independent boutiques, with colourful hues and playful outfits on display.
Shops
The central city of Christchurch offers a variety of shopping districts and laneways to explore. Cashel Street, for example, has been a hub for retail therapy, offering a mix of local and international fashion labels, as well as second-hand finds and homeware goods. The Crossing is another historic shopping destination worth visiting. For those seeking sustainable and second-hand fashion, Recycle Boutique on High Street is a great option. Infinite Definite, also on High Street, offers a beautiful curation of local and international fashion.
Restaurants
When it comes to dining, Christchurch's city centre has a lot to offer. For vegan and vegetarian options, Grater Goods and Barefoot Eatery are excellent choices. Bessie and Bloody Mary's are ideal for meat lovers, offering fine dining and a range of carnivorous delights, respectively. If you're craving comfort food, Boo's serves up Southern American classics like mac 'n' cheese croquettes and sliders. Burger Burger is the go-to place for honest burgers with tasty sides. Fire And Slice serves up some of the best wood-fired pizza in town, with hand-stretched dough and locally sourced toppings.
Bars
The city centre of Christchurch has a thriving hospitality scene, with a variety of bars to choose from. Tiger Baby, tucked away off Lichfield Street, is one of the gems of the bar scene. Moon Under Water offers a classic pub experience with great brews, food, and service. Downstairs on New Regent Street combines the cosy vibes of a pub with the sophistication of a wine bar. Gin gin is the perfect spot for an after-work drink, and Dux Central offers a versatile experience.
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Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, International Antarctic Centre and Canterbury Museum
If you're looking for things to do around Christchurch Airport, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, International Antarctic Centre, and Canterbury Museum are all great options. Each offers a unique experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a lush, green oasis in the heart of the city. Home to a diverse range of plant life, including native New Zealand species and exotic plants from around the world, the gardens offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Wander through the beautifully landscaped grounds, admire the colourful flower displays, and relax in the shade of the majestic trees. The gardens also feature a number of specialized collections, such as the Herb Garden, the Rose Garden, and the New Zealand Native Forest, each offering a unique botanical experience.
International Antarctic Centre
Located right next to Christchurch International Airport, the International Antarctic Centre is a must-visit attraction for all ages. Step into the incredible Antarctic Storm room and experience the chill of the icy continent. Learn about the first expeditions to Antarctica and gain insights into modern-day life on Scott Base. Get up close and personal with rescued Little Blue Penguins and friendly Huskies in the Husky Zone. The centre also offers thrilling all-terrain vehicle tours and an immersive 4D theatre experience, taking you on a journey through the Antarctic landscape.
Canterbury Museum
The Canterbury Museum, located in the heart of Christchurch, has been telling the stories of Waitaha Canterbury for 150 years. While the main site on Rolleston Avenue is currently closed for redevelopment, you can explore their pop-up museum on Gloucester Street. Here, you can discover the region's rich history, culture, and natural heritage through fascinating exhibits and artefacts. The museum's online collections are also available for you to delve into, offering a virtual journey through time and space.
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Play table tennis and giant puzzles at the airport
Christchurch Airport in New Zealand has a lot to offer to visitors, especially those who are looking for some fun and entertainment. One can find several exciting activities to engage in near the airport, such as exploring the city's vibrant culture, strolling through the beautiful Botanic Gardens, or even going on a wine trail.
However, if you are particularly interested in playing table tennis and giant puzzles at the airport, here is some more information about these unique and free activities:
Christchurch Airport has table tennis tables set up in the plaza, available for anyone to use free of charge, 24 hours a day. These tables are not just for entertainment but also carry a deeper significance. They were created collaboratively by local organisations C. Lund & Son, Gap Filler, and the Chinese Cultural Association to celebrate Christchurch's diverse migrant communities. Playing table tennis is a great way to get some fresh air, friendly competition, and light exercise, which can help stimulate the brain and improve hand-eye coordination.
In addition to table tennis, the airport also features a giant puzzle on Level One in the Domestic Arrivals waiting area. The puzzle, designed by the Oi YOU! team with artwork by Australian artist Emmanuel Moore, challenges players to create two different images inspired by the beautiful South Island landscape. This puzzle, named "Canterbury Planes," adds an interactive and engaging element to the airport experience, providing a fun way to pass the time while waiting for a flight.
These games not only offer entertainment but also showcase the beauty of the region and promote interaction among travellers, creating a sense of community and friendly competition within the airport environment. So, whether you're waiting for a flight or simply looking for some fun, grab a friend or family member and head to Christchurch Airport to enjoy these unique and engaging activities!
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Take a Christchurch Trams tour, or kayak along the Avon River
Take a Christchurch Tram Tour
The Christchurch Tram is a unique and family-friendly experience, combining history and sightseeing on board one of the city's best-loved attractions. The beautifully restored heritage trams offer a fabulous way to see the inner city and are perfect for all ages. The full circuit takes approximately 50 minutes, with trams running every 10-20 minutes (or every 15-25 minutes according to another source). There are 17 or 18 stops en route, with plenty of highlights to explore, including the Botanic Gardens, Tūranga, and Margaret Mahy Playground, as well as shopping and dining options at The Terrace, Riverside Market, SALT District, Arts Centre, and New Regent Street.
The friendly and informative drivers provide fascinating insights and live commentary on the various landmarks and sights along the route, including the Art Gallery, Cathedral Junction, Avon River, and the Canterbury Museum. With a day-long ticket, you can hop on and off as many times as you like, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.
Kayaking Along the Avon River
The Ōtākaro Avon River is central to the identity of Ōtautahi Christchurch, offering a natural hydroslide for paddleboard learning. Kayaking along the Avon River is a great way to explore the city and its tranquil Botanic Gardens while enjoying the peaceful sights and sounds of the river. There are several spots along the river where you can launch your kayak, such as the Antigua Boat Sheds, Millbrook Reserve, and Harpers Avenue.
For those looking for a longer adventure, you can start from the Rossall St/Poynder Ave intersection on the Wairarapa Stream, which leads into the Avon River near Mona Vale, and then continue through the city to Kilmore St. This route takes around 2 hours and involves some twists and turns, with a few sections where you may need to get off and drag your kayak. Another option is to start at Quail Island/Rippapa Island in Cass Bay and paddle up to Girls High, or even further to New Brighton, which takes about 4 hours.
It is important to be aware of other river users, such as rowers and white baiters, and to give space to wildlife like black swans. The river has tidal flow up to the fire station, and it can be shallow under bridges.
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Go hiking and surfing at the beaches of New Brighton and Sumner
If you're looking for some outdoor adventure near Christchurch Airport, the beaches of New Brighton and Sumner are excellent choices. Known for their scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, these beaches offer a range of activities to suit different interests.
New Brighton Beach, located a short distance from the airport, boasts kilometres of coastline, providing ample space for hiking and exploration. The area features iconic landmarks such as the New Brighton Pier, where you can take in stunning ocean views. Nearby, you'll find the New Brighton Playground and Splash Park, ideal for families with children. The playground offers a unique experience with its 600kg whale in the splash pad, along with wet and dry play areas. The surrounding neighbourhood also boasts cosy cafes, neighbourhood bars, and romantic fine dining options. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the nearby Ōruapaeroa/Travis Wetland, a peaceful haven for birdwatching and ecological exploration.
For those seeking a more active adventure, Sumner Beach is a popular destination for surfing. Surfers of all skill levels can ride the waves, with the area offering swells suitable for learners and intermediates. The beach also provides access to Cave Rock, a fascinating natural formation that can be explored at low tide through a short tidal cave. Sumner Beach is also known for its wide sandy area and gentle sloping tidal area, making it a family-friendly spot for a swim ("always swim between the flags" is the local advice). Fishing is another popular activity at Sumner, with many locals trying their luck at the mouth of the Avon Heathcote Estuary.
Both New Brighton and Sumner beaches offer a diverse range of experiences, from hiking and surfing to dining and cultural exploration. With their proximity to Christchurch Airport, they are convenient destinations for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and local culture of the region. So, whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to relax and enjoy the scenery, these beaches are definitely worth a visit.
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Frequently asked questions
Some attractions near Christchurch Airport include the International Antarctic Centre, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, the Canterbury Museum, the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, the Christchurch Tramway, and the Christchurch Art Gallery.
Christchurch is known for its abundance of greenery and outdoor activities. You can go hiking on the Godley Head Walkway or the Crater Rim Walkway around Lyttleton Harbour, or surfing at the beaches in New Brighton and Sumner. You can also explore the city centre and admire the street art, or visit the nearby Banks Peninsula for more hiking options.
Yes, there are several family-friendly activities near Christchurch Airport. The International Antarctic Centre features a snow and ice experience, a husky zone, and a penguin encounter. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park also offer a great opportunity for families to enjoy the outdoors and explore the natural surroundings.
Christchurch Airport offers a range of unique experiences and activities for travellers. You can participate in free activities such as table tennis, or work on a giant puzzle in the Domestic Arrivals waiting area. The airport also has various shops, services, and events to discover and enjoy.
The Sudima Christchurch Airport hotel is a popular choice as it is conveniently located just minutes away from the airport. It offers easy access to the city's attractions, including wineries, gardens, and adventure activities.
