The Budget & Backpacking Guide to Christchurch

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Free Activities in Christchurch

Experience the city highlights and surrounding landscape without spending a dime!

Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens

A good place to start, if you’re staying in Christchurch city centre, is exploring Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens. As Christchurch is known as the “Garden City”, these iconic parks sit side-by-side, offering a perfect introduction to the city’s natural beauty.

The Botanic Gardens boasts an array of water features, themed gardens and winter gardens. We love meandering through the rose gardens, exotic plant collections and tranquil riverside paths, all for free!

Pack a picnic, catch seasonal flower displays or spot native birds in this peaceful retreat. It’s a budget-friendly way to experience the essence of Christchurch.

Check out our 10 Beautiful Gardens & Parks in Christchurch for more parks to visit and their locations.

Canterbury Museum

Alongside the gardens, the Canterbury Museum offers another free attraction. Inside, learn about the local Maori, European and natural history of Christchurch and the surrounding region, as well as the city’s connection to the Antarctic, in an array of captivating displays.

While the main site undergoes redevelopment, don’t miss the temporary pop-up museum, Canterbury Museum at CoCA. This space showcases popular exhibits like the Antarctic Gallery, Māori and Pasifika collections, and the quirky Fred & Myrtle’s Paua Shell House. With free admission, it’s a budget-friendly gem that’s well worth a visit.

Christchurch Markets

Although shopping is an obvious thing to do in a city, the farmers’ markets are something of an attraction. A list of markets for Christchurch looks a little something like this:

• Christchurch Farmers Market (Saturday morning, Riccarton House and Bush)
• Christchurch Night Market (Thursday, 6-11 pm, The Hub Hornby)
• The Riccarton Markets (Sunday, 9 am – 2 pm, Riccarton Park)
• New Brighton Seaside Market (Saturday, 10 am – 2 pm, 25 Brighton Mall)
• Lyttelton Market (Saturday, 10 am – 1 pm, London Street).

Finally, if you’re not visiting on a weekend, then head to the Riverside Market which is an indoor market venue open seven days a week!

For more markets, see our The Food Guide to Christchurch.

For more free stuff, see the 26 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Christchurch.

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Cheap Activities in Christchurch

If you have a little bit of cash to spare in your travel budget, then you might want to add some of Christchurch’s affordable attractions to the itinerary.

Quail Island Day Trip

We briefly touched on the suburb of Lyttelton in the section above, which is also the launch point for trips to Quail Island. For around NZ$35 per person, the Quail Island ferry takes you to an island rich in history and natural beauty.

Once there, enjoy easy walking tracks with interpretive signs, spot native birdlife, and relax on scenic beaches. Pack a picnic and swim at the main beach during summer, or explore shipwreck remains at low tide.

It’s a budget-friendly escape that feels worlds away, just a 15-minute ferry ride from Christchurch.

Check out more experiences nearby in the 10 Best Things to Do in Lyttelton.

Quake City

This museum gives visitors a deeper understanding of Christchurch’s recent history of the Canterbury Earthquakes. We recommend visiting Quake City early in your visit to Christchurch in order to put things into perspective as you’re bound to witness the redevelopment of this city even several years later.

Through interactive exhibits, personal stories, and recovered artefacts, the museum captures both the devastation and resilience of the community.

Learn about the science behind earthquakes, heroic rescue efforts, and the city’s ongoing rebuild. Entry is approximately NZ$20 per person, while children go free if accompanied by an adult

He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools

If you don’t go to New Brighton for the pier, at least go for a rejuvenating soak in the He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools. The complex features five saltwater hot pools ranging from 26°C to 40°C (79-104°F).

Overlooking the ocean, it’s a relaxing and affordable wellness experience just steps from the beach. The pools also include a plunge pool, steam room and spacious relaxation areas.

Entry is around NZ$20 for adults, with discounted rates for children and seniors. For a truly memorable visit, book one of the special sunrise sessions held on select mornings to soak while watching the sun rise over Pegasus Bay.

Christchurch City Tramway

Step back in time and enjoy this old-world transport method of getting around the inner city. The beautifully restored Christchurch Tramway is a fun way to explore the city where you can hop-on and hop-off as much as you like.

The full loop includes stops at top attractions like Riverside Market, Cathedral Square, and the Canterbury Museum. Trams run frequently and provide commentary on Christchurch’s history, making it both a ride and a mini guided tour.

At approximately NZ$40 for adults, with kids riding free with a paying adult, it’s a great value experience for budget-conscious travellers.

Check out more experiences like this in the 10 Things to Do in Christchurch with Kids.

For more cheap activities, again, head to the 26 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Christchurch.

© The Bealey Quarter

Where to Stay: Affordable Accommodations in Christchurch

The budget accommodation offering in Christchurch is huge – and that’s an understatement. You have multiple options of hostels, holiday parks, budget hotels, motels, homestays, B&Bs and holiday homes.

Although we outline all your options in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Christchurch and the 10 Best Backpacker Hostels in Christchurch, here are some of our top picks for travellers on a budget.

The Bealey Quarter – Flexible City Stay with Dining and Shared Facilities

The Bealey Quarter offers a modern and versatile accommodation experience. With three distinct options, “Corporate Studios”, “Sunny Garden Court Rooms” and “Lodge” accommodation, there’s something to suit every traveller’s needs and budget.

All rooms come equipped with free unlimited WiFi, heating and smart flat-screen TVs.

Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar, or utilise shared facilities that include a kitchen, laundry, BBQ area, movie room and pool table. The property’s central location puts you just 1.2 km from Victoria Street and 1.4 km from Christchurch Art Gallery.

For those looking to start their day right, a continental breakfast is available each morning for an additional charge.

Discover why The Bealey Quarter is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexible and well-located accommodation, and book your stay through Booking.com or Expedia!

BreakFree on Cashel – Smart and Affordable Stays in Christchurch’s CBD

BreakFree on Cashel, an Accor Hotel, offers innovative and affordable urban accommodation in Christchurch’s CBD. We love its sleek, city-styled rooms that serve as perfect space-savers for short-term stays.

The vibrant décor and comfortable beds create a fun, energetic atmosphere. Downstairs, you’ll find Café & Bar 165, conferencing spaces, and a lounge perfect for meeting friends before exploring the city.

Budget-conscious travellers will appreciate the central location, with entertainment, shopping, and dining just a short distance away. There’s even a small workout room for those wanting to squeeze in a gym session.

WiFi is available, and the hotel’s position on a tram line makes city exploration a breeze.

Learn more about what makes BreakFree on Cashel ideal for budget travellers and city explorers, and secure your stay through Booking.com or Expedia!

© ChristchurchNZ

Cheap Eats in Christchurch

You’re in the city now! There’s no need to buy overpriced cafe cabinet food or expensive pizzas (why are the pizzas in New Zealand so expensive?)

Christchurch offers an array of local and international flavours in its takeaways, cafes, restaurants and food trucks.

Some of the highlights include Mosaic by Simo (No. 3/300 Lincoln Road), where you can savour a large Moroccan Toasted Wrap for around NZ$15.

Don’t miss Dimitris Greek Food (96 Oxford Terrace), a long-time local favourite serving generously filled souvlaki meals and salad platters, all under NZ$20.

For Kiwi comfort food, try Bunrunners Cafe (87c Fitzgerald Avenue) for their savoury pies and Southland cheese rolls.

Oversized burgers are a South Island staple, which is evident in the vegan and meaty beasts at Slick Burgers (54 Ferry Road).

On a tighter budget? Big Gary’s (249B Riccarton Road) serves up some of the cheapest burgers, loaded fries and no-fuss comfort food in the city.

Whether you’re after hearty, healthy or indulgent, there’s a cheap eat in Christchurch to match your cravings and budget.

For much more recommendations, head over to the Cheap Eats in Christchurch or find general recommendations listed in The Food Guide to Christchurch.

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More About Art and Cultural Fix in Christchurch

The arts are well and truly alive in Christchurch! Experience art galleries, shows, street art and more when visiting the South Island’s largest city on a backpacking trip; all without breaking the bank.

Christchurch Art Gallery

Whether you’re ducking indoors to escape the rain or seeking cultural inspiration, the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū offers a vibrant and free experience perfect for budget-conscious backpackers.

Inside its striking glass-fronted building, you’ll discover ever-changing exhibitions showcasing New Zealand artists, including Māori and South Island art, as well as international works.

Free guided tours run daily at 11 am and 2 pm, led by enthusiastic local guides. These 45-60 minute walkthroughs provide insightful context to the exhibits.

For night owls, the gallery opens late on Wednesdays until 9 pm, with a special tour starting at 7:15 pm. We love browsing the superb design store and relaxing in the café space after exploring the artwork.

For more all-weather activities, check out the 20 Things to Do in Christchurch on a Rainy Day.

Evening Shows and Entertainment

Take the opportunity to experience some Kiwi theatre at The Court Theatre (129 Gloucester Street, Christchurch). This iconic venue reopened in May 2025 in a stunning purpose-built facility in the Christchurch Performing Arts Precinct, offering two theatres and multi-purpose spaces.

It features a diverse range of productions, from classic drama and musicals to Māori and Pasifika shows.

Don’t miss “Scared Scriptless”, the Court Jesters’ iconic weekly improv comedy show, running almost every Friday at 10:15 pm. It’s the longest-running comedy show in Australasia and, according to our editor-in-chief, Laura, “a must-see for any comedy lover visiting Christchurch”.

For genuine local flavour and free or low-cover entertainment, head to Darkroom (336 St Asaph Street). This intimate R18 venue showcases original Christchurch artists and touring acts, from indie and punk to electronic and jazz. With a top-quality sound system and a cosy vibe, it’s a hub for underground music lovers.

For more evening antics, check out the 10 Things to Do in Christchurch at Night.

Christchurch Street Art

Lastly, when walking in the city centre it doesn’t take long to spot huge street art. Artists have used every building wall available as their canvas to create a contrast of colourful and grungy artwork. This is just a taste of the amount of awesome street art there is to see in Christchurch:

• Riverside Mural (Lichfield Street)
• Kaikiaki Mural (YMCA Building, Hereford Street)
• Three Lips Mural (Peterborough Street)
• Tui and Titipounamu (Lichfield Street)
• Alice in Wonderland (Tuam Street)
• Kowhai and Silvereye (Ibis Hotel, Hereford Street)…

There is even a ‘street art gallery’ on Brockworth Street.

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More About Gardens, Parks and Reserves in Christchurch

How can two completely different worlds be sitting next to each other? In the city centre, you have a concrete jungle and then moments later, you can be in one of the beautiful gardens and parks of Christchurch.

Botanic Gardens

Although a lot of New Zealand cities have botanic gardens, nothing compares to Christchurch Botanic Gardens‘ vast area of different themes. Walk through the gardens about three times, taking different routes, and we bet you’ll find something new each time! Find access of Rolleston Avenue in the city centre.

Spanning over 21 hectares (52 acres) within a loop of the Avon River, these gardens boast more than ten themed collections. We personally love the colourful “Central Rose Garden” and long “Herbaceous Border”, as well as the serene “New Zealand Garden” showcasing native species like rimu, silver fern and kōwhai.

For a quick taste, wander the easy 800 m “Taste of the Gardens” loop (about 15-30 mins) past the Curator’s House, Peacock Fountain and herbaceous borders.

Alternatively, take the 1.5 km River Walk along the Avon, passing the “Temperate Asian Collection” and “Azalea & Magnolia Garden”. Kids will enjoy the play area near Armagh carpark.

Don’t miss architectural highlights like the historic Curator’s House (now a café) and the optical-illusion staircase sculpture “Diminish and Ascend” rising above Kiosk Lake.

Mona Vale

A picturesque English-style garden, Mona Vale is an easy walk or bus trip from the city centre and well worth the visit. The garden once belonged to Annie Townend, thought to be the richest woman in New Zealand during her time.

Spanning 4–5.5 hectares along the Avon River, Mona Vale boasts magnificent seasonal displays. Highlights include a large rose garden with heritage and hybrid roses, an iris collection dating from the 1970s, and stunning magnolias, camellias, conifers and maples.

Colourful annual bedding, refreshed twice yearly, adds vibrant charm to this tranquil oasis in the Riccarton suburb.

See more like this in the 10 Beautiful Gardens & Parks in Christchurch.

Hiking Trails in the Port Hills

In true backpacker style, there are plenty of free walks among the exposed hilltops of the Port Hills, each boasting magnificent city, coast and harbour views.

You can even get up there via the Christchurch Gondola. Otherwise, some of the best Port Hill walks include:

• Godley Head Loop Track (3 hours, Taylor’s Mistake)
• Bridle Path (1 hour one way, Heathcote)
• Sign of the Bellbird to Ahuriri (1 h 30 mins, Ahuriri)
• Tawhairaunui Trail (20 mins return, Victoria Park)
• Sugarloaf Circuit (1 hour return, Victoria Park).

And for more walks to sample during your travels, check out The Top 50 South Island Walks.

Otukaikino Wildlife Reserve

Finally, on walks and reserves, a walk around the wetland Otukaikino Wildlife Reserve is an easy boardwalk track amongst bird wildlife. Allow 30 minutes to complete this loop walk.

This 13-hectare freshwater wetland reserve, nestled beside Christchurch’s northern edge, doubles as a “Living Memorial”. The 1.2 km flat loop weaves through raupō reeds, harakeke flaxes, and native grasses via gravel, grass, and boardwalk sections—perfectly stroller- and wheelchair-friendly in dry conditions.

We truly appreciate the strategically placed benches that offer opportunities to spot eels (tuna), pukekō, and wetland birdlife, including paradise shelduck, scaup, and herons.

© Nancy Zhou - ChristchurchNZ

More About Shopping in Christchurch

The Christchurch city centre shopping precinct is changing all the time with new developments. Even if you don’t have the budget to splurge, just checking out the shopping culture of Christchurch is an experience.

Take a stroll around Christchurch CBD with The Crossing (166 Cashel Street) anchoring a stylish mix of boutiques and international brands.

Don’t miss Ballantynes, the city’s iconic department store offering top-tier fashion, homewares and cosmetics.

Explore the elegant heritage boutiques along New Regent Street, known for beautifully restored Spanish Mission-style architecture.

The buzzing Riverside Market at Oxford Terrace is a must-visit food hall and artisan market with around 100 local vendors.

Outside of the city centre, The Tannery (3 Garlands Road, Woolston) fuses style and heritage in a restored industrial hub brimming with Kiwi-made boutiques and cafés.

For suburban shopping, try The Palms (Corner Marshland & New Brighton Roads, Shirley) with over 80 stores including Countdown and Farmers.

Finally, for bargain hunting, head to Dress Smart in Hornby, the only designer outlet mall on the South Island.

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More About Beaches in Christchurch

When summer comes, it’s easy to be drawn to the sandy beaches on Christchurch’s coast.

Sumner Beach

Sumner Beach is great for swimming and surfing, the latter outlined in the 10 Top Surf Breaks in Christchurch. Don’t miss the iconic Cave Rock (Tuawera), a volcanic outcrop with a tidal tunnel you can explore at low tide.

Surf schools offer year-round lessons and gear hire. After your beach adventure, treat yourself at the charming cafes and ice cream parlours lining Sumner’s streets.

New Brighton

New Brighton has always been a favourite for shopping, swimming and surfing. A visit isn’t complete until you walk the New Brighton Pier, rebuilt in 1997 and relit after earthquake repairs in 2018.

For a truly relaxing experience, soak in the He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools, opened in 2020. This complex features five heated salt-water pools, a cold plunge, sauna and steam room, all with stunning ocean views.

Booking ahead is essential for this classic Christchurch beach experience.

Find out what to do in New Brighton in the 10 Free & Cheap Things To Do in New Brighton.

Lyttelton and Quail Island

A ferry can take you from Lyttleton to Ōtamahua / Quail Island for a scenic day trip. The island’s walk loops past historic quarantine sites, Antarctic-era kennels and shipwreck remains.

We love the secluded beaches, perfect for a picnic or swim. Keep an eye out for native birdlife as you explore this fascinating sanctuary.

Learn more about it in the 10 Best Things to Do in Lyttelton.

© ChristchurchNZ

If You Have More Time in Christchurch…

• Go punting or kayaking down the Avon River
• Visit an Edwardian township at Ferrymead Heritage Park
• Have a 4D Antarctic experience at the International Antarctic Centre
• Like planes? Visit the free Air Force Museum of New Zealand
• Explore the forest on the Riccarton Bush Walk
• Do some sightseeing on the Christchurch Tramway
• Ride the chairlift to the Christchurch Adventure Park…

… And much more, as listed in the 30 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Christchurch with more experiences on a backpacker budget.