Summary of Day Trips from Christchurch
As the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch serves as a gateway to some of the most stunning landscapes globally.
Following significant earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, the city continues to undergo reconstruction. Much of the damage is still visible today, with ongoing construction projects and a notable church destroyed in the city center. However, the residents have successfully transformed the disaster into an opportunity to foster community spirit within the city.
Visitors can gain insights into the effects on local residents as well as the geological aspects of the earthquakes while in the city. This provides a unique experience that is a valuable addition to any itinerary in New Zealand.
If you choose to spend some time in Christchurch, there are numerous exceptional day trips available within a few hours, allowing exploration of other destinations across the South Island.
While many tourists are drawn by the natural beauty, it is also possible to experience rural Kiwi life and participate in various adventure sports at many of the locations.
Here are the 15 most recommended day trips within reasonable traveling distance from Christchurch.
1. Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula
Situated on the Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is a charming town located just east of Christchurch on the South Island. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in local Kiwi culture, learning about the history of the islands while enjoying renowned New Zealand coffee and pastries.
The harbor town is also home to a variety of indigenous wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphins and unique bird species. The remainder of the peninsula offers opportunities for exploring dramatic landscapes and understanding New Zealand’s conservation endeavors.
2. TranzAlpine Train
The TranzAlpine Train provides a scenic connection between Christchurch and Greymouth, making it convenient to organize a return trip as part of a day excursion. The journey traverses the Southern Alps, the region recognized for its breathtaking vistas shaped by centuries of seismic activity.
Passengers are treated to remarkable views of mountains and lakes, with several filming locations from the Lord of the Rings movie franchise featured along the route. The most notable landmark is Arthur’s Pass, which provides the most dramatic scenery found on the island.
3. Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a noteworthy stop for travelers to the South Island and presents a unique day trip opportunity in its own right.
Previously isolated from Christchurch due to the earthquakes in 2016, the road into the town has recently been reopened, facilitating easier access to this destination. Here, visitors can savor some of New Zealand’s premier seafood while immersing themselves in authentic rural Kiwi culture.
The town offers popular boat trips where one can encounter dolphins and whales, along with a brief coastal drive leading to a sizable seal colony. Visiting post-mating season allows for the chance to observe baby seals up close within this colony.
4. Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
Aoraki, also known as Mount Cook, stands as New Zealand’s highest peak, surrounded by a national park offering various hiking trails along with spectacular views of Lake Pukaki.
The area is well-regarded for skiing in winter and provides opportunities for kayaking in the pristine glacial waters during summer.
For those interested in conservation, the region is home to numerous centers that deliver insightful presentations on New Zealand’s efforts to preserve its natural heritage.
5. Queenstown
Queenstown is the premier destination on the South Island but is located further away than many other spots, thus it is advisable to consider guided tours if planning a day trip to ensure efficient time management.
Recognized as the adrenaline capital of New Zealand, Queenstown hosts one of the world’s most famous bungee jumping sites situated in Shotover Canyon.
The Tiki Trail, a hiking and mountain biking path, leads partway up Ben Lomond to the Skyline Queenstown area, offering opportunities to enjoy the luge or simply revel in the stunning views of the city. A cable car is also available for those preferring a more relaxed ascent.
6. Hanmer Springs
New Zealand is renowned for its seismic activity, which has created several exceptional hot springs throughout the country.
Although the most famous hot springs are situated on the North Island, Hanmer Springs represents an excellent option away from the crowds typically found at other natural springs, and it is arguably the finest spa town on the South Island.
Surrounding the town are various mountain biking and hiking trails, rewarding visitors with impressive views of the nearby forests and mountains. In winter, the area offers fantastic skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating opportunities.
7. Tekapo
Located alongside Lake Tekapo, this area is often overlooked by travelers flocking to the neighboring Mount Cook National Park, yet it boasts great secluded hiking trails and a serene atmosphere within the main town.
Mount John features an excellent hiking trail, complete with a glass-walled café at the summit, allowing visitors to enjoy views of the lake while savoring a typical Kiwi flat white.
The Mount John Observatory, famous for its role in reevaluating Pluto’s planetary status, provides insights into space exploration and New Zealand’s contributions to scientific discoveries over recent decades.
8. Greymouth
For those looking to save expenses, driving through the Southern Alps instead of taking the train can lead to Greymouth as an intriguing endpoint.
While the town’s industrial history may deter some tourists from exploring, it actually offers several significant sites worth visiting. Shantytown Heritage Park is a reconstructed gold rush village.
This area played a vital role in New Zealand’s gold mining history, and the influence of this gold rush is still visible in the region today. At Shantytown, visitors can learn about this fascinating chapter in New Zealand’s past.
9. Hokitika
Located on the West Coast, Hokitika is a charming town encapsulating typical New Zealand culture.
Hokitika serves as the contemporary center for jade, known locally as greenstone, which is widely used for carving Maori pounamu. Visitors can explore various shops and centers to learn about this precious stone, and even partake in carving their own pounamu.
The National Kiwi Centre provides a delightful opportunity to observe native Kiwi birds, in addition to discovering other unique species found across both islands.
10. Timaru
Timaru (referred to as Timaz by locals) is located just a short drive from Christchurch and offers a different experience from the dramatic scenery typically associated with the South Island. This destination is ideal for appreciating rural Kiwi culture.
Throughout the town, visitors will find delightful Kiwi cafés boasting award-winning pies, alongside numerous Kiwiana shops where they can purchase unique souvenirs. The community also holds a rich artistic heritage, showcased through locally owned galleries and vibrant sculptures scattered around the town center.
11. Marlborough
Marlborough serves as another gateway to the South Island for travelers who opt to reach this region via ferries from Wellington.
This beautiful region is renowned for its vineyards, particularly near Wairau and Awatere, where one can sample some of the world’s finest wines. Many wineries provide tours and tasting events.
The Marlborough Sounds are also rich in natural beauty and are somewhat less crowded than the more famous fjords in the southern region.
Birdwatching enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to discover many unique species throughout the area, with excellent observation points strategically located.
12. Oamaru
Located south of Christchurch, Oamaru provides an excellent opportunity to observe Little Blue Penguins, which are native to the southern part of the South Island; it offers the closest encounter with these delightful creatures.
This town features some of New Zealand’s earliest colonial architecture, drawing inspiration from Edwardian designs of the United Kingdom.
Furthermore, Oamaru serves as a hub for helicopter tours, providing sightseeing experiences over the Otago region, including parts of Canterbury.
13. Dunedin
Dunedin is a charming town that may not be on the radar of many tourists but is certainly worth the visit.
While it requires a longer journey, early departures or organized tours can maximize the time spent exploring the major attractions within a day. The town’s design was influenced by Edinburgh, Scotland, with many street names reflecting that heritage.
This unique layout has resulted in some of the steepest streets in the world, alongside a vibrant street art scene that encompasses traditional graffiti, murals, and creatively painted public benches and sculptures.
If visiting in May, consider attending the Jaffa Race, where locals toss small orange sweets down the hills to support charity.
14. Punakaiki
Punakaiki marks the entrance to Paparoa National Park, a lush and vibrant region abundant with native wildlife and plant species.
The most renowned feature is the pancake rocks, which are naturally formed rock formations resembling impressive stacks of pancakes. Visitors can also experience blowholes that showcase the power of the Tasman Sea as it interacts with the New Zealand coastline.
Additionally, for those who enjoy horseback riding, various popular treks are accessible from the town, with horses available for rent.
15. Geraldine
Situated slightly off the beaten path, Geraldine is a hidden gem that encapsulates all the finest attributes of the South Island.
Located amid the Canterbury plains, the town boasts remarkable views of the Southern Alps. Visitors can explore some of the nation’s most extensive sheep farms and delve into local history and culture.
Don’t miss the chance to explore independent art galleries and admire the pieces of street art that add a vibrant feel to the town. Local handicrafts are also available for purchase, offering more unique gift options compared to typical Kiwiana found in tourist shops.
