Below is a list of the top and leading Experiences in Christchurch. To help you find the best Experiences located near you in Christchurch, we put together our own list based on this rating points list.
Christchurch’s Best Experiences:
The top rated Experiences in Christchurch are:
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens – lush foliage of seasonal plants and blooms
- International Antarctic Centre – a cold and icy escape for the family
- Canterbury Museum – connects the present to the past and future
- Willowbank Wildlife Reserve – cares and educates the community about wildlife
- Christchurch Gondola – a stunning 360 view of the surrounding peninsula
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Christchurch Botanic Gardens is one of the local’s highly recommended tourist spot. The garden is heavily decorated with gorgeous layers of plants and flowers that give a stunning visual wonder to the visitors. These lovely setup changes together with the season creating excitement to the locals and guests. Summer is definitely the season for roses, daffodils dominate the spring season, autumn has tons of leaf on display, while winter presents a comfortable conservatory filled with interesting items to explore. A range of family activities is worth checking out that features an edible garden and a chance to explore their enchanted garden.
Products/Services:
Events, Family Activities, What’s in Bloom, Curator’s Edible Garden, Enchanted Garden, Learning Programmes, Seasonal Newsletter, Canterbury Horticultural Society
LOCATION:
Address: City Centre Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013
Phone: (439) 417-590
Website: www.ccc.govt.nz/parks-and-gardens/christchurch-botanic-gardens
REVIEWS:
“A nice addition to add to your Christchurch trip if you’re exploring the city. Expansive, a lot to see, and has a visitors centre, clean public toilets, and an outdoor cafe. Lots of locals and tourists.” –Rachael Law
International Antarctic Centre
International Antarctic Centre can be found tucked in next to the Christchurch International Airport where it captivates thousands of visitors annually. The experience centre is truly one of its kind and patterned after the rich ice community in Antarctica. Families can have a day filled with fun memories and experiences with their exciting offerings. They can try the storm room for that chilly effect, ride their all-terrain vehicle tour, or bond with the smart huskies and penguins. A 4D theatre awaits visitors for that astonishing realistic ice tour that would surely induce the rush of your adrenaline.
Products/Services:
School Holiday Program, Storm Dome, 4D Theatre, Penguin Rescue, Antarctic Gallery, Husky Zone, Hägglund Field Trip
LOCATION:
Address: 38 Orchard Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8052
Phone: (433) 570-519
Website: www.iceberg.co.nz
REVIEWS:
“The Antarctic Centre is a must when you visit Christchurch. Fantastic displays and history of this amazing part of our world. We loved the ride in the snowmobiles and the experience in the Snow room. and we spent a long time reading all the stories. Totally recommend a visit.” –Clara Smith
Canterbury Museum
Canterbury Museum introduces the cultural heritage that has long been treasured by the Kiwi families. A visit to the Christchurch museum would connect an individual to the rich culture every local family celebrates. In here, tourists and guests can be acquainted with the primitive life, how it evolved to be what it is now at the present, and catch a glimpse of what the future promises to the local community. The museum was introduced to the public on December 3, 1867, and since October 1, 1870, it has been firmly placed at its Rolleston Avenue location.
Products/Services:
Exhibitions, Tours, Matariki Crafts, Museum Records, Collections, Education
LOCATION:
Address: Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013
Phone: (433) 665-000
Website: www.canterburymuseum.com
REVIEWS:
“Took out 3yr old grandson and we thoroughly enjoyed it as much as he did. Great displays and discovery centre. Also a great cafe on the top floor.” –Sandy Mcclelland
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve was established by the Willis family exactly four decades ago and remains to be a family-owned and managed wildlife park. The Christchurch based park enjoys a surge of over 120,000 guests annually owing to its popularity in the local community as well as to the international visitors. It is a comprehensive wildlife park that features the unique animals both native and endangered present in the country. A perfect experience for the family and friends, it is where an individual can try a personal interaction with the wildlife present in a natural environment.
Products/Services:
Lemur Encounter, Guided Tour, Animal Feeding, Junior Keeper, Donkey Rides, Conservation, Rescue, Native Animals, Endangered Species
LOCATION:
Address: 60 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch 8051
Phone: (433) 596-226
Website: www.willowbank.co.nz
REVIEWS:
“Great wildlife experience for all ages. Able to feed both animals, ducks and eels. Cafe has a roaring log fire going on the colder days, food good too. A very popular place to visit.” –Dorothy Pearce
Christchurch Gondola
Christchurch Gondola is one experience any person visiting the region should not miss. Aboard the widely popular gondola, one can bask in the wonderful aerial view of the city and the Lyttelton Harbour. Perched on top of the Port Hills it is a spot perfect for a group of friends or a bunch of visitors hungry for a unique experience. With a full view of the surrounding area, it gives the viewer a different perspective of Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, Pegasus Bay, Pacific Ocean and a scenic view reminiscent of the snow-capped Alps.
Products/Services:
Shop at the Top, Red Rock Café, Time Tunnel Experience, Free Wi-Fi, Spectacular 360 View
LOCATION:
Address: 10 Bridle Path Road, Heathcote Valley, Christchurch 8022
Phone: (433) 840-310
Website: www.christchurchattractions.nz/christchurch_gondola
REVIEWS:
“Incredible views. Not to be missed. Loved being a tourist in my own country. The Cafe is fabulous and the staff A1. But the views are breathtakingly beautiful! 😍” –Rosie Davey-Hicks