Christchurch Is Having A Moment, And It’s Now Just A Direct Flight From Singapore

Christchurch has always had a lot going for it, but for a long time, it felt like a city waiting for its next chapter. Before the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, Ōtautahi Christchurch was often described as a little conservative, even somewhat stuck in its ways. Then came the earthquakes, which caused widespread destruction and changed the landscape of the city and the lives of the people who called it home. What followed was a long and challenging rebuild, but also an opportunity to rethink what Christchurch could be.

Today, that transformation is hard to miss. Contemporary architecture, revitalised laneways and a growing dining scene have given the city a fresh energy, while the Ōtākaro Avon River has become a focal point for riverside restaurants, public spaces and leisurely strolls. The central city is wonderfully walkable, with independent retailers, vibrant markets and plenty of places to stop along the way. There's a new confidence about Christchurch, too. After years of rebuilding and looking backwards, it feels as though the city is finally looking forwards. Like a rubber band that's been stretched and held back for years, it's finally been let go.

But perhaps the most impressive part of Christchurch's transformation isn't its buildings or hospitality scene, it's the resilience of the people who have brought it back to life. The Māori phrase kia kaha, meaning stay strong, feels particularly fitting here. Christchurch hasn't simply rebuilt what was lost, it's created something new, with a character and energy all of its own.

Air New Zealand Makes Christchurch Easier To Reach From Singapore

Image credit: Air New Zealand | Supplied

Getting to Christchurch from Singapore has just become a whole lot easier, thanks to Air New Zealand’s new direct service between the two cities. Operating three times a week, the route means you can skip the stopovers and arrive straight into the heart of the South Island, ready to explore.

Flights operate on the airline’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, with refreshed cabins, upgraded inflight entertainment, free Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Business Premier passengers can stretch out on an 80-inch lie-flat bed, while Premium Economy offers extra room to settle in for the journey. There’s also the Sky Pantry for a mid-flight pick-me-up, plus a bespoke Coffee Supreme blend and Thirteen Forty Five wine label on board.

Flight NZ63 departs Singapore at 12.30am and arrives in Christchurch at 3.25pm, while the return service, NZ64, leaves Christchurch at 5.05pm and arrives in Singapore at 10.40pm. Air New Zealand also connects Christchurch with 20 domestic destinations across New Zealand, making it a handy starting point for a wider South Island adventure. KrisFlyer members can also earn miles on eligible Air New Zealand flights.

The Best Things To Do In Christchurch

There’s no shortage of things to see, do and discover in Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region. From getting out into nature to exploring the city’s creative side and meeting the locals who make it special, here are a few of our favourite experiences from our recent visit.

Visit The Private Gardens At Villa Toscana

Image credit: Villa Toscana | Supplied

One of the more unexpected experiences in Christchurch is Villa Toscana, a spectacular private garden tucked away in the Port Hills. Created over more than two decades by artist and owner Jenny Oakley, it’s an eclectic mix of Italian-inspired gardens, winding pathways, impressive sculptures and beautiful views across the surrounding landscape.

Jenny hosts the experience herself, sharing the stories and inspiration behind the garden she’s spent years bringing to life. We were treated to a gorgeous high tea at the end of our visit, making it a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Visits are by appointment, so you’ll need to arrange your tour ahead of time.

Get Out On The Water With Waka On Avon

Image credit: Waka on Avon | Urban List Singapore

See Christchurch from a different perspective with Waka on Avon, a cultural experience that takes you onto the Ōtākaro Avon River in a traditional handcrafted Māori canoe. Led by local Māori guides, the gentle paddle is accompanied by stories about the river’s cultural significance, its role in Māori life and the history of Ōtautahi Christchurch. It’s a hands-on experience, so expect a little paddling rather than simply sitting back and enjoying the scenery.

The storytelling is what makes this particularly worthwhile, offering a deeper connection to the city beyond its streets and buildings. It’s relaxed, genuinely engaging and a lovely way to learn more about the area’s Māori heritage.

Discover Christchurch Through Food With Āmiki Tours

Image credit: Riwai Grace from Āmiki Tours | Urban List Singapore

If you want to get to know Christchurch through its food, book a tour with Riwai Grace from Āmiki Tours. A brilliant local guide and storyteller, Riwai brings the city’s history and culture to life, taking you beyond the usual sightseeing stops and introducing you to the people, places and flavours that make Christchurch what it is.

We joined the cultural lunch tour, which wove together Māori heritage, local history and some seriously good food. One highlight was a stop at Cellar Door, a MICHELIN-recognised dining experience, but it was Riwai’s warmth, knowledge and passion for his hometown that really made the tour.

Explore The City’s Street Art With Watch This Space

Image credit: Tessa by Rone | Urban List Singapore

One of the best ways to appreciate Christchurch’s creative comeback is on a street art walking tour with Watch This Space. The city has become something of an urban art destination, with colourful murals and large-scale artworks transforming walls, laneways and buildings throughout the centre. We joined local guide Reuben Woods to explore the scene, and it’s a brilliant way to discover parts of the city you might otherwise wander straight past.

One standout was a striking mural by Australian artist Rone, unofficially known as ‘Tessa’. Spanning the exposed brick exterior of a central-city building, it features a beautifully detailed portrait of a woman gazing out across the streets below. There’s something lovely about the idea behind it: giving life to a building and creating a familiar presence watching over the neighbourhood. Reuben also shared how the wider street art scene emerged in the aftermath of the earthquakes and the artists who helped shape it.

Meet New Zealand’s Native Wildlife At Willowbank

Image credit: Willowbank | Website

A visit to Willowbank Nature Reserve is a must if you’d like to get a closer look at New Zealand’s native wildlife. It’s home to some of the country’s most iconic species, including kiwi, kea, tuatara, kākā and the rare takahē. Wander through the different habitats at your own pace or join a guided native tour to learn more about the animals and the conservation work helping to protect them.

Seeing a kiwi up close is a real highlight, particularly if you’ve never spotted New Zealand’s famously elusive national bird in person. It’s an enjoyable few hours, whether you’re travelling with kids or simply want to tick off a proper Kiwi wildlife experience.

Spend An Afternoon By The Sea In Sumner

Image credit: Sumner Beach | Supplied by ChristchurchNZ 

You don't have to travel far from the city to find yourself beside the ocean. Sumner is a lovely seaside suburb with a sweeping sandy beach, a coastal promenade and a village atmosphere that makes it easy to while away an afternoon.

Wander along the waterfront, grab a coffee or an ice cream from a nearby cafe, or find a spot on the sand and watch the surfers. Make time for Cave Rock, the distinctive volcanic formation at one end of the beach, too. It's an easy outing and particularly lovely on a sunny day.

Take In The Views On A Godley Head Walk

Image credit: Godley Head | Urban List Singapore

If you love a good coastal walk, put Godley Head on your list. We explored this spectacular stretch of coastline with Adventure by Nature, whose guided tour takes you through the Port Hills and out towards the dramatic headland overlooking Lyttelton Harbour. Expect rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views and historic World War II defence sites, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos along the way.

The guided experience also takes in places like Sumner and Taylors Mistake, with local stories adding another layer to the walk. With transport, a guide and food included on the full-day experience, you can simply enjoy the scenery and let someone else take care of the logistics.

Spot Rare Hector’s Dolphins On An Akaroa Cruise

Image credit: Akaroa Dolphins | Urban List Singapore

Around 90 minutes from Christchurch, the picturesque seaside town of Akaroa is worth the drive. The real highlight for us was getting out on the water with Akaroa Dolphins for a two-hour nature cruise through the harbour. The main attraction is the rare Hector’s dolphin, one of the world’s smallest dolphin species, but keep an eye out for New Zealand fur seals, penguins and seabirds, too.

The boat is spacious and comfortable, the crew are warm and knowledgeable, and the commentary brings the area’s history and natural environment to life. Watching Hector’s dolphins pop up alongside the boat against the backdrop of Akaroa’s dramatic volcanic coastline was one of the highlights of our trip.

Make Time For A Spot Of Shopping

Image credit: RUBY | Website

Christchurch has a surprisingly good shopping scene, particularly if you're keen to discover New Zealand labels and independent designers. Shopology is a great spot for New Zealand-made fashion, jewellery and gifts, while Cashel Street and The Crossing are home to local favourites including Moochi, RUBY, Juliette Hogan and I Love Ugly.

If you're after something a little different, The Tannery is well worth a visit. This beautifully restored heritage building is home to a collection of independent boutiques, designer clothing, vintage finds, art and homewares, making it a lovely place to spend an hour or two browsing.

Where To Eat And Drink In Christchurch

Christchurch has a food scene that’s well worth exploring, whether you’re after a long lunch, a special dinner or something delicious between sightseeing stops. From lively food halls and riverside restaurants to excellent coffee, local wine and a very good gelato stop, these are the places you should make time for.

King of Snake

Image credit: King of Snake | Urban List Singapore

For a slightly more dressed-up dinner, King of Snake is well worth booking. Sitting above Cashel Street with views across the Avon River, this stylish restaurant serves Euro-Asian cuisine, with punchy flavours, creative dishes and plenty of options designed for sharing. The cocktails are worth a look, too, and the atmosphere is lively and polished without being overly formal.

Riverside Market

Image credit: The Butcher’s Pie Shop x Espresso Studio by Fushoken | Urban List Singapore

If you only make time for one food stop in the city, make it Riverside Market. This buzzing indoor market is packed with independent food stalls, artisan producers, bakeries, cafes and bars, so you can graze your way around everything from international street food to sweet treats and excellent coffee. It’s a great place for a casual lunch or a wander between sightseeing stops.

There are a couple of neighbouring standouts on Cashel Street worth seeking out, too. The Butcher’s Pie Shop does a proper Kiwi pie with hearty fillings and flaky pastry, while right next door, Espresso Studio by Fushoken is serving up seriously good coffee, with a triple shot as standard.

Little High Eatery

Image credit: Little High Eatery | Supplied by ChristchurchNZ

Little High Eatery is another great option when you can’t decide what you’re in the mood for. The lively food hall brings together 11 independent, family-run kitchens under one roof, serving everything from wood-fired pizza and Japanese favourites to Thai, Chinese and Latin American dishes. Grab a spot at one of the communal tables and order from whichever kitchens take your fancy. It’s casual, fun and particularly handy if you’re travelling with a group who all want something different.

Miro

Image credit: Urban List Singapore

Set inside a beautiful 1930s heritage building overlooking the Avon River, Miro is a lovely spot for a leisurely breakfast or lunch. The Art Deco interiors give it plenty of character, while the menu puts a creative spin on familiar brunch favourites. It’s also a MICHELIN Guide-listed restaurant, with a riverside terrace for warmer days and cosy fireplaces when Christchurch turns on the cooler weather.

Cellar Door

Image credit: Cellar Door | Facebook

Tucked inside the historic Christchurch Arts Centre, Cellar Door is a destination in its own right for wine lovers and foodies. Recognised by the MICHELIN Guide as a Selected Restaurant in 2026, it pairs an impressive wine list with seasonal, European-inspired dishes made using local ingredients. The wine tasting flights are a particularly good way to explore some of the region’s best drops.

Caldera Estate

Image credit: Caldera Estate | Urban List Singapore

If you’re heading out to Akaroa for the dolphin cruise, make a lunch stop at Caldera Estate. Perched high above the harbour on the slopes of an extinct volcano, this boutique vineyard and cellar door has spectacular views across the water. The estate’s clay-based soils help shape the character of its wines, and it’s particularly worth looking out for the dry Riesling. Make time for a tasting alongside something delicious from the kitchen.

Gin Gin

Image credit: Gin GIn | Facebook

You’ll find Gin Gin on colourful New Regent Street, and it’s just as much a destination for its interiors as it is for its drinks. Think pink banquette seating, lush greenery, cosy corners and a seriously good gin and cocktail list. The menu is designed for sharing, with hand-stretched pizzettas, small plates and dishes from the grill, making it a fun spot for a relaxed dinner or a few drinks.

Rollickin Gelato

Image credit: Rollickin Gelato | Instagram

For something sweet, head to Rollickin Gelato. This locally owned favourite makes its gelato and sorbet fresh in-house, with a rotating selection of classic and more inventive flavours, alongside baked desserts for those after something a little more indulgent. It’s an ideal stop after dinner, particularly if you want to enjoy a scoop while watching the trams roll past.

Where To Stay In Christchurch

Whether you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime rural escape, a grand historic lodge or a stylish base in the heart of the city, Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region have some excellent places to stay.

Annandale Coastal Farm Escape

Image credit: Scrubby Bay at Annandale | Instagram

Annandale was easily one of the most amazing places I’ve ever stayed. Spanning 6,500 acres of working farmland on Banks Peninsula, this extraordinary private estate has 15 kilometres of coastline, with dramatic cliffs, secluded bays and seven individual luxury villas and retreats scattered across the property. Rather than a traditional hotel, think of it as your own private slice of coastal New Zealand, with each residence offering a completely different experience. And this is serious luxury, with a price point to match.

The accommodation collection has something for different kinds of escapes, from a grand five-bedroom historic homestead with an infinity pool, spa and tennis court to intimate one-bedroom hideaways tucked into private coves. There’s contemporary clifftop architecture at Wakaroa Point, the glass-fronted Seascape and the romantic Shepherd’s Cottage, alongside the seaside family escape that is Scrubby Bay. We stayed at Scrubby Bay, a four-bedroom-plus cedar-clad beach house tucked into its own secluded bay, with sweeping ocean views, a beautiful stretch of beach right on the doorstep and plenty of space to switch off. It’s what I’d call gumboot luxury: exceptionally high-end, but with an authentic connection to the land and the people who work it. And if you’re looking to elevate your stay even further, you can arrive or depart by private helicopter with Christchurch Helicopters. We flew out this way, and it’s a pretty spectacular way to take in the coastline from above.

Otahuna Lodge

Image credit: Otahuna Lodge | Supplied

If you’re after a truly special stay, Otahuna Lodge deserves a spot at the top of your list. This magnificent Queen Anne-style mansion was built in 1895 and is widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s grandest historic homes. Set within 30 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens just outside Christchurch, it’s an impressive property from the moment you arrive, with ornate architecture, stained glass windows, original kauri detailing, sweeping verandas and roaring fireplaces. It also holds Two MICHELIN Keys, placing it among the country’s most exceptional places to stay.

With just seven individually designed suites, the experience feels wonderfully intimate despite the grandeur of the estate. Heritage has been thoughtfully paired with contemporary comforts, warm hospitality and exceptional dining. Seasonal menus showcase produce from the estate’s own gardens and orchards, while the grounds invite you to slow down and explore. We visited for dinner during our time in Christchurch, and it’s the kind of place you wish you didn't have leave.

Hotel Montreal

Image credit: Hotel Montreal | Facebook

If you’d prefer to stay right in the city, Hotel Montreal is a stylish boutique option in a great central location. This five-star property has a more intimate feel than a traditional city hotel, with spacious suites, thoughtful details and a relaxed sense of luxury. You’re within easy walking distance of Hagley Park, the Botanic Gardens and plenty of Christchurch’s restaurants, bars and shopping spots.

The hotel also has its own restaurant and bar, with a pretty courtyard that’s particularly inviting for an afternoon drink or a leisurely meal. It’s a lovely balance of boutique comfort and city convenience, making it a great base for exploring Christchurch on foot.

Crowne Plaza Christchurch

Image credit: Crowne Plaza Christchurch | Urban List Singapore

For a comfortable, well-located city stay, Crowne Plaza Christchurch is a handy option. Sitting beside Victoria Square in the central city, it’s within easy walking distance of Riverside Market, the main shopping precinct and many of Christchurch’s restaurants and attractions. The rooms are contemporary and comfortable, with some offering great views across the city.

There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar, plus a gym if you fancy squeezing in a workout between exploring. It’s a practical choice if you want a familiar full-service hotel and an easy base for a few days in the city.

Looking for more? Check out:

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Main image credit: Riverside Market | Supplied by ChristchurchNZ