Christchurch Travel Guide

New Zealand

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383K
Population
CHC
Nearest airport
$131
Daily Budget
75
Walkability
HIGH
Safety

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Plan your arrival in Christchurch

Arriving

  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC) · 10 km away
  • Main stationsChristchurch Railway Station

Getting online on arrival

  1. Install your New Zealand eSIM at home over Wi-Fi: iPhone or Android steps.
  2. When you land at Christchurch International Airport (CHC), turn on the eSIM line and data roaming for it.
  3. Networks listed on our New Zealand plans: One NZ (5G).
  4. New Zealand plans currently start at $2.75, for 500MB over 7 days. Compare all 14 plans.

New to eSIMs? How an eSIM works · How much data you need

Landing late or with kids? Pre-book an airport transfer

Staying connected

  • Coverage4G/5G · good
  • Wi-Fiwidespread
  • Suggested dataabout 1 GB a day · work it out
  • Weak signalSome rural areas outside the city center
Compare eSIM plans

Useful apps

  • TransportUber
  • Food deliveryUberEats

Christchurch at a glance

Region
Canterbury Region
Population
383,200 (2020)
Elevation
20 m above sea level
Currency
New Zealand dollar (NZD)
Plug types
I
Emergency numbers
111
Drives on the
left
Official languages
English, Māori and New Zealand Sign Language
Calling code
+64

Sources: Wikidata and OurAirports open data, checked 29 October 2026.

Staying Connected

How long is your trip?

Prices in USD

On every plan here

  • Uses One NZ, with 5G where available
  • Starts when you first connect, so you can install it before you fly

Our pick for each trip length from today’s plans: the lowest price that lasts the whole trip with enough data a day. A starting point, not a guarantee of what you’ll use. Data only, for unlocked eSIM phones. Check your phone · How much data do I need?

Compare all 14 New Zealand eSIM plans Travelling as a family? One order for 2 to 6 eSIMs, each labelled by name. Save up to 25%.

Top Attractions

1
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
A large public park with beautiful gardens and walking paths.
2h Free
2
Canterbury Museum
Offers a rich collection of natural and cultural history.
2h Free

Best Areas to Stay

Central City
Close to attractions and public transport.
TouristsBusiness

Typical Costs (USD)

$120
Hotel/Night
$18
Meal
$3
Transport
$5
Coffee
Estimated Daily Budget (USD)
Backpacker: $60 Tourist: $131 Family: $414

* Estimated from typical costs

Local Tips

Peak Hours:7-9am, 4-6pm
Best Day:Weekdays
Custom:Kiwis are known for their hospitality and friendliness.
Common Mistakes
  • Underestimating travel times
  • Not checking weather

Food & Drink

Must Try:Whitebait Fritters, Hangi
Vegetarian:High
Tap Water:Drinkable
The Christchurch EateryRe:START Mall

Getting Around

Public Transport:Good
Rideshare:Uber
Walkability:75/100
Bus

Climate & Weather

Best time to visit: December, January, February

Warmest monthJan23°C average high
Coolest monthJul1°C average low
Wettest monthJun68 mm of rain
Driest monthFeb40 mm of rain
Average daily high and low (°C) Rain (mm)
Monthly figures
MonthHigh °CLow °CRain mmRainy days
Jan22.511.8426
Feb22.211.5405
Mar20.39.5456
Apr17.26.6588
May14.73.9587
Jun11.71.2689
Jul11.20.7648
Aug12.52.0587
Sep14.83.9426
Oct16.95.8497
Nov18.87.6457
Dec21.110.4487

Averages for 1991–2020, not a forecast. Source: WMO climate normals (Christchurch Aero AWS, 10 km from Christchurch).

Christchurch travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Christchurch?

December, January and February are usually the best months to visit Christchurch. Average daytime highs range from about 11°C in July to 23°C in January.

How much does a day in Christchurch cost?

Plan from about US$60 a day on a backpacker budget to around US$131 for a typical visitor, covering accommodation, meals and local transport (estimates).

How do I get around Christchurch?

Public transport includes bus and is rated good. Ride-hailing is available through Uber. Walkability scores 75/100.

Which airport serves Christchurch?

The nearest airport with scheduled flights is Christchurch International Airport (CHC), about 10 km from Christchurch.

Is Christchurch safe for tourists?

Overall safety is rated high. Watch for overcharging for tours. Areas generally considered safe include Central City and Riccarton. Check official travel advice before you go.

How do I stay connected in Christchurch?

Install a New Zealand eSIM before you travel and turn it on when you land at Christchurch International Airport (CHC). Our New Zealand plans list One NZ (5G).

Is tap water safe to drink in Christchurch?

Tap water is generally considered drinkable.

Explore more of New Zealand

New Zealand travel guideNew Zealand eSIM plans

Straight-line distances from Christchurch.

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is intended for general travel planning purposes only and may change without notice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Graba SIM does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the content. Travellers should verify entry requirements, local laws, health advice and services with official sources before and during their trip. Graba SIM is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided. Always check with relevant government and health authorities for the most up-to-date travel requirements.