Local Walks: Discovering Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, stretches between the ocean and the Southern Alps. Both visitors and locals often gather in the CBD (Central Business District), filled with unique and independent spots, making it an ideal area for a leisurely stroll.

The 2010 and 2011 earthquakes transformed Christchurch (known as “Ōtautahi” in Māori) and marked the beginning of its rebirth. The city is continuously evolving, with new pop-ups and businesses emerging regularly. Each visit offers a fresh experience, ensuring there's never a dull moment in this dynamic city.

Here’s a half-day itinerary to explore the highlights of the city center. 

New Zealand is renowned for its exceptional coffee culture, and experiencing a classic cafe in Christchurch is a must. My favorite is Child Sister, known for its unique brunch options like kimchi rice omelettes, complemented by fantastic coffee. It’s a perfect starting point for your stroll. Afterward, head to the New Regent Street Quarter, a pedestrian zone featuring pastel-colored heritage buildings in a Spanish-Mission style from the 1930s. The historic tram that runs through this area offers a quintessential Christchurch photo opportunity.

More than ten years later, the remnants of the Christchurch earthquakes are still visible, with many gravel parking lots marking the sites of former buildings. As you walk toward Hagley Park, you’ll encounter numerous such sites. Interested in learning more? Visit Quake City, a special exhibition by the Canterbury Museum (located separately from the main museum), which explores these stories and the science of earthquakes.

The downtown area is adorned with impressive street art that beautifies buildings and remnants of walls, many created by some of the world's top artists. On one side of the Canterbury Museum (currently undergoing redevelopment until 2028), you’ll find a massive mural depicting an extinct moa alongside a kiwi—two iconic and uniquely fascinating birds illustrated by the legendary Belgian street artist ROA.

From this spot, you can already catch a glimpse of the expansive green Hagley Park and Botanic Gardens down the street. Head in that direction; you won't lose your way. Instantly, you'll feel transported from the city as you stroll through verdant meadows filled with unusual trees, including Chilean monkey puzzle trees planted around the 1860s. There are countless sunny spots to relax and numerous paths to wander, but I always seem to end up next to the narrow Avon River.

Here, you’ll find the iconic white-and-green-striped Antigua Boat Sheds, where you can rent a boat to glide up and down the river. I particularly enjoy punting on the Avon in the autumn months (April and May) when the trees in the park turn a beautiful gold.

As you stroll back towards the CBD, you’ll come upon the vibrant Riverside Market, a lively new development that features some of the finest dining in Canterbury. Think less about fresh produce and more about street food vendors and upscale shops. There's always something happening here, no matter the time of day, with food options for everyone.

The indoor market seamlessly extends outside, blending into the main shopping district. You’ll often find me at Scorpio Books, one of New Zealand’s top independent bookstores. A quick walk across Hereford Street will lead you to Whiti-reia Cathedral Square, which suffered significant damage during the earthquakes but has been revitalized. It’s the ideal spot to conclude a long stroll through this vibrant city.