Getting around Christchurch

Public transport

All local buses in Christchurch operate from the Bus Interchange on the corner of Lichfield Street and Colombo Street. The main operator is Red Bus Limited (tel: +64 3 379 4260; www.redbus.co.nz) while Metro (tel: +64 3 366 8855; www.metroinfo.co.nz) coordinates the passenger transport network and provides information on fares, passes, timetables and routes. Using a preloadable Metrocard gives you savings of at least 25% per journey. Christchurch has three fare zones, with ticket prices rising if you cross into an additional zone.

Most Christchurch bus stops have real-time information about the buses on that route.

The Christchurch Tramway (tel: +64 3 366 7830; www.tram.co.nz) runs restored vintage trams through the city centre, with 17 stops along the way.

Taxis

Major taxi companies in Christchurch include Blue Star Taxis (tel: +64 3 379 9799) and Green Cabs (tel: +64 800 464 7336), which exclusively operates environmentally-friendly vehicles and has a real-time taxi booking app for smartphones.

Driving

Drive on the left, watch for one-way streets in the city centre, and note that in New Zealand you cannot park facing towards oncoming traffic – you will get a parking ticket. The city council operates 8 inner-city car parks as well as on-street metered parking. Meters accept coins, credit cards and mobile phone text payments.

Car hire

Companies in Christchurch include New Zealand Rent A Car (tel. +64 3 358 1358; nzrentacar.co.nz), Omega Rental Cars (tel. +64 3 360 2885; omegarentalcars.com), Avis (tel: +64 3 358 9661; www.avis.co.nz), Hertz (tel: +64 3 358 6730; www.hertz.co.nz), and Thrifty (tel: +64 3 353 1940; www.thrifty.co.nz).

Maui (tel: +64 9 255 3910; www.maui.co.nz) and Maui (tel: +64 9 255 3910; www.maui.co.nz) hire motorhomes and campervans.

Bicycle hire

Christchurch’s flat landscape really lends itself to cycling, and there are quite a few cycling lanes or shared pedestrian and bike paths. You can hire bikes from City Cycle Hire (tel: +64 3 377 5952; www.cyclehire-tours.co.nz) or The Vintage Peddler Bike Co (tel: +64 3 365 6530; www.vintagepeddler.co.nz).

Spark Bikes (tel: +64 3 373 4590; www.nextbike.co.nz) is a bikeshare scheme which launched in 2015. The first 30 minutes of any journey are free.

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

Book Accommodation

Featured Hotels

Novotel Christchurch

Novotel Christchurch is a landmark hotel located in the heart of the Square, beside the once-iconic Christ Church Cathedral. Facilities include a bar, restaurant, fitness centre and guest laundry. It's only moments to the main city attractions, including the Shipping Container Mall, the historical New Regent Street and Hagley Park.

Redwood

Situated in the less quake-damaged area, northwest of the city centre, this hotel complex prides itself on offering a 'home away from home', and includes accommodation, food, drinks, gaming and entertainment. It's handy for access to the city centre, airport, shops, cinemas, golf course and beaches. A large buffet-style restaurant, Sequoia, is also available.

Eliza’s Manor Boutique Hotel

With beautiful period features, Eliza's history spans three centuries. This grade II historic, wooden house was built in 1861 by one of the city's founding fathers, before being restored and turned into a hotel in 1981. It's within easy walking distance of the gardens, museum, and New Regent Street while just around the corner is Victoria Street with its plethora of restaurants and bars. The hotel's delicious cooked breakfast will set you up for your day of exploring the city.

The Equestrian Hotel

If city centres are not your cup of tea, try staying in suburban Hornby, which was largely untouched by the quake. Beside State Highway 1, this hotel is also ideal if you are heading further south. Rooms range from executive to budget, and are set on lovely grounds with a music bar, lots of outdoor seating, and a miniature railway model. The hotel is also located near a large shopping centre.

Merivale Manor

Set in an elegantly restored historic home dating from 1882 and within walking distance of the city centre, Merivale Manor is a perfect home away from home. Choose between studio or suite accommodation with luxurious amenities such as jetted tubs, full kitchens and laundry facilities. Breakfast is included in the rate.

Haka Lodge

Around a 5-minute drive from the heart of Christchurch, and with a bus stop on its doorstep, Haka Lodge is a good budget choice for those wishing to stay close to the centre of the action. The lodge offers a range of accommodation options, from shared rooms and hotel standard private rooms to a two-bedroom apartment unit. Haka also features a communal kitchen, free unlimited Wi-Fi, a chill out area and a verdant garden.

Introducing Christchurch

While you’re there

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