Where to Find the Best Motels and Motor Lodges in Christchurch
Christchurch goes by a lot of names: “The Garden City”, “The Most English City Outside of England”, “That City with the Earthquakes”… Well, we’re calling it the “Motel City”, as the South Island city is teeming with them!
If you’re looking for self-catering motel units or studios then you’re overwhelmed with choices in Christchurch. At least it makes your stay affordable, and there are a few gems worth discovering.
We’ll go through some of our favourites in this list of the best motels in Christchurch.
While you’re here, you might also be interested in the 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Christchurch, as well as the 20 Best Things to Do in Christchurch.
Table of Contents
1. Golden Star Motel – Riccarton Motel Near the Railway Station
Pulling out all of the stops (and all for your average and affordable motel rates), Golden Star Motel provides an upscale stay in the Riccarton suburb of Christchurch.
Close to the train station, as well as Hagley Park and Riccarton House and Bush and with a bus stop right outside the motel, you’re well positioned for some of Christchurch’s top attractions.
After a day’s exploration, your lavishly appointed studio or multi-bedroom apartment is awaiting with generous kitchen facilities, a fully tiled ensuite and a private patio with garden furniture.
Book Golden Star Motel:
© Golden Star Motel2. The Grange Motel – Motel in Christchurch City Centre
Certainly one of the most central motels in Christchurch, The Grange Motel offers a prime location on the corner of Crammer Square.
It’s just a five-minute stroll from Cathedral Square, the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu and the Botanical Gardens. The motel’s rooms spill out into a central courtyard garden, perfectly in theme with the “Garden City”.
All accommodations feature modern amenities, including a microwave, refrigerator and tea/coffee-making facilities. Guests can enjoy free off-street parking and complimentary WiFi.
For those seeking a touch of luxury, select rooms feature a private patio or balcony. A cooked or continental breakfast is available for an additional charge.
Book The Grange Motel:
© The Grange Motel3. Bealey Plaza Motel – Christchurch Motel on Bealey Avenue
On the edge of Christchurch CBD, Bealey Plaza Motel offers a modern and comfortable stay just 200 metres from Southern Cross Hospital. This well-appointed motel boasts air-conditioned rooms with all the essentials for a pleasant stay.
Each unit features a seating area, flat-screen TV with 50+ satellite channels, and a functional kitchenette equipped with a microwave, toaster and fridge. Some rooms even offer balconies with garden views.
Guests can enjoy free WiFi, convenient guest laundry and luggage storage facilities. For those early starts, a continental breakfast is available.
Book Bealey Plaza Motel:
© Bealey Plaza Motel4. 2 on Whiteleigh and 239 on Lincoln Motel – Christchurch Motel in Addington
If you need a place to stay in Addington, you certainly can’t go too far wrong with 239 on Lincoln Motel. Not only are rooms sleek and modernly appointed complete with a small kitchen, but most rooms can be interconnected so any group has a place here.
The motel now offers free WiFi and free private parking, making it even more convenient for travellers. Some rooms feature a seating area perfect for relaxing after a busy day exploring Christchurch.
Located just 400 metres from AMI Stadium, this motel is ideal for sports enthusiasts or concert-goers. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, you’ll appreciate the flat-screen TV with cable channels and iPod docking station provided in each room.
Some rooms even boast a terrace or patio, offering a bit of outdoor space to enjoy.
Discover more stays for the discerning traveller in the 15 Best Luxury Accommodations in Christchurch.
Book 239 on Lincoln Motel:
- 239 on Lincoln Motel on Booking.com
- 239 on Lincoln Motel on Trip.com
- 239 on Lincoln Motel on Expedia
© 239 on Lincoln Motel5. Sumner Bay Motel – Motel at Sumner Beach
Escape to the beachside suburb of Sumner Beach! You’ll effortlessly transition to holiday mode with the tastefully inspired beach tones of Sumner Bay Motel‘s interiors.
Just one block away from the beach and super close to the suburb’s top cafes and restaurants, the location is ideal. We really enjoy the family rooms, which include free WiFi, private bathrooms, and kitchenettes with a refrigerator and microwave.
Guests can enjoy free on-site private parking, streaming services on smart TVs, and outdoor dining areas.
Some rooms even boast terraces or balconies, perfect for soaking up those beach vibes. Based on our experience, the friendly host and convenient beach access make this motel a real gem for families and couples alike.
Book Sumner Bay Motel:
© Sumner Bay Motel6. Airport Palms Motel – Motel Near Christchurch Airport
One of the best motels near Christchurch Airport, Airport Palms Motel offers a welcoming introduction to the city. This stylish accommodation caters to families, business travellers and holidaymakers alike.
With impeccably presented rooms featuring satellite TV, free high-speed unlimited WiFi and kitchenette facilities, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay.
The motel offers airport transfers (conditions apply), free laundry facilities and complimentary daily newspapers. For added convenience, continental breakfast can be delivered to your room for a small fee.
Located in a quiet residential area, yet close to various restaurants, Airport Palms provides an ideal base for exploring Christchurch. A public bus service to the city and malls is just a two-minute walk away, making it easy to venture further afield.
Book Airport Palms Motel:
© Airport Palms Motel7. V Motel – Christchurch Motel in Papanui
One of the newest accommodations on the motel scene in Christchurch, V Motel offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience. This 4-star establishment boasts air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and modern amenities.
Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a terrace, and the convenience of private check-in and check-out services. The motel provides free on-site parking, a paid shuttle service, and full-day security for peace of mind.
With its simplistic contemporary designs, V Motel features various studios and apartments, some with innovative double beds that fold from the walls. Be entertained by large TVs with streaming services and take advantage of the outdoor seating area.
Located in Papanui, it’s one of the closest options to the Main Northland Mall and supermarket, making it an ideal base for your Christchurch adventures.
Book V Motel:
© V Motel8. Adelphi Motel – Christchurch Motel Between St George’s Hospital and the CBD
Located on Papanui Road, minutes away from St George’s Hospital in one direction and the city centre in the other, Adelphi Motel offers an easy location for many.
This motel offers comfortable family rooms equipped with air conditioning and private bathrooms. Each room comes equipped with modern amenities, including a kitchenette, washing machine, and free WiFi.
Guests can enjoy the garden and take advantage of free on-site private parking. Additional services include housekeeping, laundry, bicycle parking and luggage storage.
With its convenient location and welcoming hosts eager to share their Christchurch knowledge, Adelphi Motel provides a cosy base for exploring the city.
Book Adelphi Motel:
© Adelphi Motel9. Bellano Motel Suites – Motel in Christchurch CBD
Another stunner on Bealey Avenue, Bellano Motel Suites offers affordable luxury in Christchurch city centre. Each suite features a well-equipped kitchenette and a satellite flat-screen TV, while some rooms boast indulgent spa baths or private patios.
We personally love the cosy extras like free WiFi, ensuring you stay connected during your stay. The motel’s prime location puts you just a five-minute drive from both Hagley Golf Course and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s attractions.
According to our very own travel manager, Robin, the heated rooms with their lounge areas and outdoor furniture provide a homely touch, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Other convenient amenities include a free guest laundry and ski storage, catering to both summer tourists and winter sports enthusiasts. For those early morning starts, continental breakfast is available to fuel your Christchurch adventures.
Book Bellano Motel Suites:
- Bellano Motel Suites on Booking.com
- Bellano Motel Suites on Trip.com
- Bellano Motel Suites on Expedia
© Bellano Motel Suites10. Aalton Motel – Christchurch Motel with a Swimming Pool
Stay in well-appointed and affordable units on the edge of the city’s famous Hagley Park. Aalton Motel‘s idyllic location means that couples, friends and family can wake up and enjoy strolls through the park and the Botanic Gardens in between retreating to their own private space.
The motel offers a range of amenities, including a spa pool, free parking and a gas barbecue. Most rooms feature full kitchens, while all have microwaves, refrigerators and Sky TV.
During the summer months, guests can cool off in the children’s swimming pool.
The motel’s convenient location puts you just a five-minute bus ride from Christchurch city centre, with a bus stop right outside.
Enjoy evenings in the motel’s private spa pool or scout out the nearby award-winning cafes and restaurants – we’ve listed a few in The Foodie Guide to Christchurch: Places to Eat & Food Tours.
Book Aalton Motel:
© Aalton Motel11. Lorenzo Motor Lodge – Motel in Christchurch with Spa Baths
Located on the western end of Hagley Park and near Mona Vale – some of the 10 Beautiful Gardens & Parks in Christchurch, Lorenzo Motor Lodge offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities.
The well-appointed rooms come with kitchenettes, making it ideal for those who prefer self-catering. Some units boast private courtyards or balconies, perfect for enjoying Christchurch’s pleasant weather.
Guests can enjoy free WiFi and over 50 Sky TV channels, with some rooms featuring Netflix. For added comfort, all units have electric blankets and air conditioning.
Families and groups will appreciate the two-bedroom apartment that sleeps five, while couples can opt for cosy studio units. Many rooms include luxurious spa baths, and there’s even an EV charging station for eco-conscious travellers.
Book Lorenzo Motor Lodge:
© Lorenzo Motor Lodge12. Tuscana Motor Lodge – Self-Contained Motel in Christchurch
A popular option for travellers wanting to mostly make their own meals, Tuscana Motor Lodge provides excellent self-catering accommodation for solo travellers, couples and families.
Stay in a “Studio”, “1-Bedroom Suite”, “1-Bedroom Spa Suite” or a “2-Bedroom Family Suite”. All rooms are spacious and come with a kitchenette, microwave, fridge and coffee/tea making facilities.
Guests can enjoy free WiFi, DVD players and LCD satellite TVs in their rooms. Select accommodation even offers spa baths for that extra touch of luxury. The motel also features BBQ facilities and a guest laundry.
Located just a 10-minute walk from Christchurch city centre on Bealey Avenue, Tuscana Motor Lodge is perfectly positioned for exploring the city. With a tour desk on-site, you can easily plan your adventures around the Garden City and beyond.
Book Tuscana Motor Lodge:
© Tuscana Motor Lodge13. Centrepoint on Colombo – Popular Motel in Christchurch for Couples
What we love about the Centrepoint on Colombo are the affordable room rates, central location and tranquillity. This modern motel offers spacious air-conditioned accommodation with free WiFi in the heart of Christchurch.
The “Deluxe Studio” and “Mini Studio” with spa baths are perfect for couples, while the “Standard Studio” and “One-Bedroom Apartment” cater to busy travellers. All guest rooms feature a kitchenette with a microwave, ideal for preparing breakfast or a light lunch.
We appreciate the motel’s peaceful atmosphere, thanks to the fact that only two of the 12 rooms allow children.
Your attentive hosts are happy to arrange various tours, including a convenient shuttle service to and from Christchurch Airport or railway station.
See more couple-centric stays like this in the 15 Best Romantic Accommodations in Christchurch.
Book Centrepoint on Colombo:
- Centrepoint on Colombo on Booking.com
- Centrepoint on Colombo on Trip.com
- Centrepoint on Colombo on Expedia
© Centrepoint on Colombo14. Camelot Motor Lodge – Self-Catering Motel in Christchurch
How can you not love the medieval theme of the Camelot Motor Lodge?! Located just a 5-minute stroll from Hagley Park, this charming motel offers self-contained accommodation with all the comforts of home.
From compact “Studio Rooms” to spacious multi-bedroom options, you’ll find a range of room types to suit your needs.
Guests can unwind in the hot tub, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or enjoy a BBQ in the garden area. With 2GB of free WiFi daily, cable TV and a DVD player in each room, entertainment is sorted.
We personally love the thoughtful touches, such as the free DVD library and the rose gardens, perfect for a relaxing evening after exploring Christchurch.
See more self-catering accommodations like this in the 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations in Christchurch.
Book Camelot Motor Lodge:
© Camelot Motor Lodge15. 53 Southern Comfort Motel – Cheap Motel in Christchurch
This iconic motel, easily identified by the brass sculpture of a knight in battle, wins the hearts of couples, business travellers, and families time and time again. The 53 Southern Comfort Motel in central Christchurch offers private self-contained accommodation with kitchen facilities.
Choose from affordable “Studio Units” or treat yourself to the relaxing “Superior Studio Spa Unit” with a corner spa bath. Just a 10-minute stroll from Christchurch Casino, this centrally located motel provides a convenient base for exploring the city.
Each unit features a spacious seating area, flat-screen satellite TV, and a private patio.
Guests can also take advantage of the on-site laundry and luggage storage facilities. With free parking available, 53 Southern Comfort Motel offers excellent value for money in the heart of Christchurch.
For more cheap options, check out the 15 Best Budget Accommodations in Christchurch.
Book 53 Southern Comfort Motel:
- 53 Southern Comfort Motel on Booking.com
- 53 Southern Comfort Motel on Trip.com
- 53 Southern Comfort Motel on Expedia
© 53 Southern Comfort Motel16. Country Glen Lodge – Family-Friendly Motel in Christchurch
Keeping in theme with the “most English city outside of England”, Country Glen Lodge boasts English charm and an affordable stay, especially for families.
Their “2-Bedroom Family Motel Units” offers ample space for groups: one room has a king bed while the other has either a queen or two singles.
Either way, you’ll have your home-away-from-home experience that’s ideal and affordable for a family getaway thanks to the fully-equipped kitchen.
The location is ideally centralised too, being a short walk from Hagley Park and the city centre.
See more motels in Christchurch like this in the 10 Best Family Accommodations in Christchurch.
Book Country Glen Lodge:
© Country Glen Lodge17. Airport Gateway Motor Lodge – Cheap Motel Near Christchurch Airport
The Airport Gateway Motor Lodge is a popular choice near Christchurch Airport and books up fast! This convenient accommodation features a 24-hour reception and complimentary airport shuttle, perfect for guests with late arrivals or early departures.
The motel offers two distinct wings: the “Economy Wing” with spacious rooms including kitchens and outdoor seating areas, and the “Business Wing” featuring heat pumps, showers, and large TVs. All guests can enjoy free unlimited WiFi and Chromecast video streaming.
The on-site restaurant and bar provide breakfast, dinner, and 24-hour room service. For business travellers, conference and meeting rooms for up to 50 people are available.
The motel also offers free parking during your stay and long-term car storage for an additional charge, ideal for those embarking on extended trips.
Book Airport Gateway Motor Lodge:
- Airport Gateway Motor Lodge on Booking.com
- Airport Gateway Motor Lodge on Trip.com
- Airport Gateway Motor Lodge on Expedia
© Airport Gateway Motor Lodge18. Garden City Motel – Pet-Friendly Motel in Christchurch
Situated in Papanui, between the airport and the city centre, the Garden City Motel offers a range of affordable accommodations with modern amenities. We love that this motel provides free unlimited WiFi and on-site parking, making it convenient for road-trippers.
Choose from cosy queen and king studios or spacious one- and two-bedroom units sleeping up to five, most equipped with fully-fitted kitchens including ovens, fridges and microwaves.
The motel caters to various needs, offering wheelchair-friendly and pet-friendly options. With heating and air-conditioning in most units, you’ll stay comfortable year-round.
Tour bookings and complimentary local calls enhance the home-away-from-home experience.
See more like this in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Christchurch.
Book Garden City Motel:
© Garden City Motel19. The Towers on the Park – Motel Near Hagley Park
Bordering the picturesque Hagley Park, The Towers on the Park offers a unique stay with its castle-like architecture. This comfortable modern accommodation provides free WiFi and digital satellite TV in all rooms.
Choose from various options, including the circular-shaped “Executive Suites” with spacious lounges, or unwind in the “Spa Bath Suite”. For a more homely experience, the “Standard Studio” comes with a kitchenette.
All rooms receive daily servicing and include private off-street parking. Guests can also access the on-site laundry facilities.
Book The Towers on the Park:
- The Towers on the Park on Booking.com
- The Towers on the Park on Trip.com
- The Towers on the Park on Expedia
© The Towers on the Park20. Belle Bonne Motel – Cheap Christchurch Airport Motel
Another motel-style accommodation located near Christchurch Airport, Belle Bonne Motel is super popular with families. The motel has 10 units, six of which have two bedrooms and sleep up to seven people.
Belle Bonne Motel allows you to save on food costs thanks to each unit’s fully equipped kitchen. Other than that, the accommodation is simple yet comfortable.
We appreciate the convenience of the bus stop right at the front of the motel. Guests can also enjoy free WiFi with a 1024MB voucher valid for 7 days upon request.
The motel features a garden with barbecue facilities and a children’s play area, making it ideal for families. Both continental and cooked breakfasts are available every morning, giving you a great start to your day of exploring Christchurch.
Book Belle Bonne Motel:
© Belle Bonne MotelMore About Motels in Christchurch
That’s it for our list of the best motels in Christchurch, but it’s by no means the end of our travel tips! Get more stellar travel advice from the following guides:
- 20 Best Hotels in Christchurch
- 25 Best Things to Do in Christchurch
- The Food Guide to Christchurch: Places to Eat & Food Tours
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Christchurch.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
About The Author
Laura S.
This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.





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