From the world’s rarest dolphin and a guaranteed kiwi sighting to a -18C Antarctic storm, a local tourism boss shares what to see and how to fit it all in.
When it comes to the art of reinvention, few cities have undergone quite the transformation of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Recent accolades speak for themselves: it has been ranked among the top 10 trending destinations for 2027, while Christchurch Airport was recently named Large Airport of the Year. It’s also at the centre of the country’s fastest-growing region.
Together, these milestones signal an exciting new era for the city, which is looking beyond its past and embracing a promising future.
Since the Canterbury earthquakes, Ōtautahi has rebuilt and evolved as a vibrant cultural destination with plenty to offer, from a revitalised urban centre to extraordinary natural beauty.
Its unique appeal combines the outdoor adventures of Queenstown, the art and culture of Wellington and, thanks in large part to the opening of One New Zealand Stadium earlier this year, the big-ticket entertainment of Auckland.
For those looking to spend a long weekend in the Garden City, there is a wealth of activities to discover, says Paul Milligan, CEO of Christchurch Adventure Park. From seeing the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin to conquering the country’s highest zipline, here’s how to enjoy a few days in Ōtautahi.
ZIPCHCH
If you’re looking for a different way to experience Christchurch, from the air is a pretty good bet.
Located just 15 minutes from the city centre, ZIPCHCH is home to Aotearoa’s longest and highest ziplines.
“There’s enough of a thrill for the thrillseekers, but it’s also suitable for people of all ages and most fitness levels,” says Milligan.
There are four different ziplines to explore across Port Hills, each boasting unparalleled, panoramic views that stretch from the city to the Southern Alps.
Its proximity to the city centre makes it easy to slot into most itineraries. You can also choose your own adventure, from the signature tour to a single ride – a great option for tighter schedules.
Black Cat Cruises
One day of your Christchurch tour should be allocated to Black Cat Cruises and its signature Akaroa Nature Cruise, says Milligan.
This award-winning, family-friendly experience offers the unique opportunity to see Hector’s dolphins – the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin species – in their natural habitat, as well as marine birds, fur seal colonies, and Akaroa’s dramatic volcanic cliffs.
As eco-tourism leaders, Black Cat Cruises ensure these sailings are also educational, with guests gaining insight into critical conservation efforts.
Just 90 minutes from Christchurch, Akaroa itself is a must-do on any itinerary – but spotting a Hector’s dolphin will make the trip particularly special.
“They’re as unique to New Zealand as the Kiwi, so you’re not going to see them anywhere else around the world.”
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Wildlife enthusiasts should also allocate a morning to exploring Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, a beloved family-friendly attraction that is a rite of passage in many Christchurch childhoods, says Milligan.
This iconic reserve is home to farmyard animals as well as native and exotic species, but is particularly known for its kiwi sightings. Willowbank is the only place in the world to have incubated, hatched and raised all five species in their dedicated on-site kiwi hatchery; with the team playing a vital role in national conservation efforts.
Activities include behind-the-scenes encounters, feedings and its signature native guided tours, where you can discover takahē, tuatara, kea, kākā and kiwi.
“It’s really nice and interactive, and they have a ‘kiwi guarantee’. If you’re visiting from overseas and seeing a kiwi is on your bucket list, this is the place to do it.”
International Antarctic Centre
For an educational, one-of-a-kind activity, you can’t look past the International Antarctic Centre.
Located on the International Antarctic Programme’s working campus at Christchurch Airport, it’s an easy addition to any Christchurch itinerary, especially if you’re flying in or out of the city.
Here, you can explore world-leading scientific research, experience an Antarctic storm at -18°C, take a ride on a Hägglunds, see rescued kororā (little penguins), and meet the huskies. It’s a chance to get a taste of life on the ice without leaving Christchurch.
As one of just five cities in the world known as a gateway to Antarctica, Christchurch is uniquely positioned to share its geography, history and culture.
The immersive Antarctic guided tour is a must-do: over two hours, you discover what it’s really like to live and work in the coldest, driest, windiest place on Earth.
“The brilliant thing with the International Antarctic Centre and Willowbank is that you can easily squeeze both into the same day because everything is so close. If you’re flying out, you can pop to the Antarctic Centre before you leave,” Milligan says.
“Three days would give you ample time to fit these activities in, as well as explore the city itself.”
Eating and drinking your way through Riverside Market and The Terrace, Ōtautahi’s vibrant dining and entertainment precinct, are also must-dos, he adds.
Milligan hopes Christchurch’s growing momentum will inspire more visitors from Aotearoa and abroad to discover the city for themselves.
“It’s just an upward trajectory for a really, really cool place.”
For more information, visit www.chcmustdos.nz/