Things to Do in Christchurch & Canterbury
Christchurch is the gateway to New Zealand’s South Island – a city that blends English heritage, wide open parks and a vibrant post-quake culture with easy access to some of Canterbury’s most dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re planning a day trip to the ski fields, a drive out to Akaroa, or simply exploring the city itself, there’s plenty to discover.
Use this guide to plan your time in Christchurch and Canterbury. When you’re ready to book your stay, Scenic Hotel Cotswold offers comfortable, centrally located accommodation with free parking and genuine Kiwi hospitality.
About the Region
Steeped in history, the city’s leafy suburbs and large central city park present a gentrified and English setting. Hagley Park is a popular spot for walking, jogging, cycling and sports and offers an expansive green setting in the heart of the city.
Around the city fringes are desirable suburbs and shopping, with the suburban beach area of New Brighton just a little further out. Christchurch is also the gateway to Antarctica, and the city presents this connection superbly with the International Antarctic Centre located near the airport. Other city attractions include the iconic earthquake that struck Canterbury Cathedral, now the focus of an ambitious restoration project following the devastating 2011 Christchurch Earthquake.
Family fun can also be found with several nature-based and wildlife experiences around the city and punting on the Avon river. The Air Force Museum at Wigram is a must for Aviation and history fans and offers an interactive experience for all the family.
Within easy driving distance of Christchurch, visitors can immerse themselves in the diversity of the region, and be in close proximity to many of the top things to do in Christchurch. An hour’s drive will place visitors at the foothills of the Canterbury High Country, a spectacle in itself and also home to the popular Terrace Downs golf course. The ski fields of Hutt Valley near the township of Methven are also just over an hour’s drive from Christchurch. This makes day trips to the ski fields accessible from Christchurch, where visitors have plenty of options for off days. Scenic Hotel Cotswold’s large family rooms and parking outside your room make this a popular choice for a city stay and day skiing.
The historic harbourside township of Akaroa is slightly farther afield but well worth the day trip. Settled by the French, this is another world and a beautifully preserved reminder of New Zealand’s rich settler history. A “must visit” for travellers to or through the region.
Getting to and around the region
Christchurch is well serviced by international and domestic flight connections around New Zealand and the world. Connecting services from Auckland are regular, as well as provincial points. Christchurch is also a popular stopover point for self-drive visitors travelling between islands and is a 4 ½-hour drive to Picton, where the interisland ferry services run to Wellington.
Christchurch has a unique tram system that serves the city and buses; however, for travelling beyond the city limits, a rental car is recommended to take in the best of the scenery and stop at leisure along the way.
Dining in Region
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and the second largest city in New Zealand. It is well served with a vast range of cuisines and culinary experiences from high-end to family and casual dining. Guests to Scenic Hotel Cotswold will find excellent local cuisine and family-friendly meals at the hotel’s Tudors on Papanui restaurant. The hotel restaurant is open daily for breakfast and dinner.
Conferences, Meetings and Business Events
Scenic Hotel Cotswold offers a refreshing meeting and events space. Flooded with natural light and many rooms opening onto picturesque gardens, this presents a relaxed and sociable space for business and events. There are plenty of options with a choice of rooms and additional break-out areas. An onsite meetings planner and co-ordinator can tailor specific conference needs whilst the hotel chef is happy to plan a menu to sate the appetite of delegates. The newly built Te Pae Convention Centre is located 2 kilometres from the hotel, special guest accommodation rates maybe available for event attendees – contact the hotel to obtain a quote.
Best Things to See and Do in Canterbury
Families, couples and solo travellers will all find a long list of new and exciting to see and do in Christchurch. The city has plenty to offer, with iconic national attractions such as the Antarctic Centre and New Zealand Airforce Museum. Stretch beyond the city limits, and a world of possibilities awaits. From the world-famous Canterbury High Country to ski fields to the historic French harbourside town of Akaroa, the biggest challenge for visitors will be moving on!
With ample parking and easy access in and out, Scenic Hotel Cotswold offers spacious and comfortable Christchurch accommodation for travellers wishing to stop over or linger longer to experience the region.
