Spend The Day In Christchurch And Canterbury

Start your day early and escape to a world of ultimate tranquillity. A bucket list item for so many, hot air ballooning is an experience you can have right here! Ballooning Canterbury are the local experts in hot air balloon rides, and the family-owned business love showing people Canterbury from a completely different view.  

Experience a sunrise like never before, as you set out first thing. The mornings are best as it is usually when the weather is calmest, and the morning light is most beautiful. Capture incredible photos and have a truly breath-taking experience… there aren’t many better ways to start your day! 

If you prefer to start your morning with less adventure and more zen... then a sunrise soak at He Puna Taimoana is just what you need. Located in New Brighton, the hot pools offer stunning ocean views that really enhance the peaceful environment. Sunrise Soak is a 2-hour session, and includes unrestricted views of the sunrise, a fluffy robe to wear and a complimentary mocktail. There is also an optional guided meditation for those who really want to bliss out.  

Once you are feeling pampered and refreshed, grab a bite to eat and a coffee at the delicious café onsite, Saturdays. 

It’s time to get up close and personal with some of New Zealand’s most diverse and unique wine. Located in the heart of North Canterbury, the Waipara wine region is home to over 90 vineyards, most of them independently owned by a close-knit community of local families. Wine lovers are spoilt for choice in this small but mighty region and what better way to experience it than with a wine trail tour?  

Most tours also include options for a beautiful lunch at one of the cellar doors, and multiple winery stops with tastings along the way.  

Once you have wrapped up your wining and dining, it’s time to travel back into the city for your afternoon and evening. First is a visit to the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu, for a relaxed meander of the impressive building and displays. The gallery is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in some of Christchurch’s history, as well as its rich creativity, whether you are an art buff or not.

Once you are finished at the gallery, pop across the road to the The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora. The beautiful centre has a rich history and is now a hub for the arts in Ōtautahi. There are a few galleries and museums in the centre you can check out, including The Central Art Gallery, Rutherford's Den and The Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities. Note that these spaces each have their own opening hours, so be sure to check them first. The centre is also home to a few unique shops, boutique retailers and artisan eateries.

Next up is the perfect pre-dinner activity to start winding down your evening. The Juniper Collective is a one of its kind gin boutique in the heart of City Mall, and a special place to visit for all gin lovers. The boutique is open to the public during the day, where you can peruse the hundreds of New Zealand gins, while picking the brains of expert staff.

In the evenings, you can book a private tasting for your group. The Gin Tasting Experience includes tastings of five New Zealand gins, pairings with a variety of local and international tonics, a grazing platter and 10% discounts on all purchases. A must-do for all gin lovers or those who aren’t familiar with gin and want to learn more. 

It is time to sit back, relax, and indulge. After a wonderful day of exploring, nothing beats a delicious meal, a few drinks and great company. Christchurch has an exquisite culinary scene, and the evening dining options range from sophisticated restaurants to cosy pubs, rooftop bars to casual dining alfresco style.

You can’t go wrong with one of the fabulous restaurants along The Terrace. Set along the Avon River, the many eateries and bars include some of the city’s very best. Have a delicious Italian dinner at Original Sin, shared bites at Delilah or some classy drinks at cocktail bar Kong. You'll find an array of options to satisfy your cravings in this incredible hospitality spot!