Take a Māori-led food tour

A locally owned, whānau (family)–run business, Āmiki Cultural Food Tours offers a unique way to get to know the food scene in Ōtautahi (the Māori name for Christchurch). Led by local Māori guides, these inner-city walks showcase iconic New Zealand flavors and Christchurch’s artisanal producers—you’ll leave with a long list of recommendations. Just as important as what you eat is learning about Christchurch from a Māori perspective. Through a mix of history, legends, and traditions, your guides share key aspects of Māori culture, including manaakitanga (hospitality) and the cultural importance of sharing kai—the Māori word for food and nourishment.

Shop for New Zealand–made goods

Christchurch has excellent spots for picking up locally made souvenirs. The basalt and limestone buildings of the city’s castle-like Arts Centre house boutiques such as Frances Nation, where you’ll find merino hats and gloves, and Wilson & Dorset, known for New Zealand sheepskin rugs, cushions, and even beanbags. Over at The Tannery—a stylish shopping precinct on the city’s fringe—HAPA showcases contemporary Māori artworks and jewelry, including pounamu (South Island greenstone). Outdoor enthusiasts should also pop by Earth Sea Sky, a Christchurch-based brand producing high-quality performance clothing. With merino and fleece pieces designed to last—and some colorways inspired by native birds—you may be wearing a reminder of New Zealand for years to come.

Take the slow road to something beautiful

The hilly, winding, and spectacularly scenic roads of the Banks Peninsula make it ideal for a road trip—albeit a slow one. Detour along Summit Road and out to Okains Bay for some of the peninsula’s best views (and arguably its best beach) before continuing to the small township of Akaroa. Stop by the Akaroa Lighthouse for idyllic harbor views, then visit The Giants House for a garden bursting with eclectic, colorful mosaic sculptures. Finish with a leisurely seafood lunch —think Akaroa salmon or Marlborough green-lipped mussels—at the seaside, French-inspired Ma Maison.