Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
We've compiled the best of the best in Greater Christchurch - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Just minutes from the airport and 10 minutes from central Christchurch, this family-owned, resort-style accommodation includes a heated indoor pool, sauna, spa, fitness center, and tennis court. Rooms are quiet, large, and comfortable, with the latest TVs and generous bathrooms. The stylishly landscaped terrace area, with a big open fireplace, is a great place to relax with a drink just about all year-round. Staff are superfriendly and helpful.
Just 20 minutes from Christchurch and almost hidden by glorious century-old gardens is one of New Zealand's most important historic homes, now an award-winning luxury retreat. Built in 1895 in Queen Anne style for Sir Heaton Rhodes, a high-profile Member of Parliament of the time, the three-story homestead has been restored to its former grandeur, yet has all the modern amenities you would expect in an exclusive luxury lodge. Each of Otahuna's seven suites has a distinctive character and reveals a different element of the Otahuna story. Original fireplaces complement the rooms and the wisteria-blue drawing room is divine. Be sure to wander the 30 acres of gardens (guided tours available), and take a dip in the heated pool (summer only). Do spend some time in the potager garden and the kitchen with the chef to learn some of his secrets.
Just 5 minutes from the airport, the Sudima has a gym and on-site restaurant including buffet dinner. Canterbury Museum, International Antarctic Centre, and Isaac Theatre Royal are nearby cultural highlights. From 6 am, a full buffet breakfast can be purchased as an extra in the room price, and there is a small à la carte menu that can be ordered from.
