Christchurch Tours & Vacations

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Christchurch is located on the South Island of New Zealand so traveling to this picturesque city largely depends on where you're coming from.

If you're located in the surrounding regions or other close-by cities then the easiest way to get to Christchurch would be to drive.

If you're traveling from other parts of the South Island that are further away such as Queenstown, or if you're traveling from destinations in the North Island, catching a flight to Christchurch Airport would be the quickest and most convenient way. 

Christchurch is considered a very easy place to get around, with a number of different transportation options.

Christchurch's public transportation system is quite effective, with two bus networks designed to take you to the major landmarks and suburbs within the city.

Alternatively, you can also easily catch a taxi or rent a car for longer day trips to surrounding regions. 

Christchurch enjoys a temperature climate with fairly even and dry temperatures. Due to Christchurch's location to the equator, summer isn't very hot and it's unlikely to see extreme heat during the season.

On the other hand, winters are quite cold in Christchurch with freezes often happening overnight. Despite Christchurch's tendency for cooler weather, the city still enjoys 2,100 hours of sunlight a year. 

What to pack for Christchurch largely depends on what time of the year you're traveling in. Due to Christchurch's fairly temperate and dry climate and cooler temperatures, it's a good idea to pack a jumper and some wet weather clothes no matter the season.

If you're traveling in Winter or Autumn you should pack appropriate Winter clothes such as pants, thicker shirts, and socks, as well as scarves, beanies, and gloves. While the temperature never gets too hot in Summer, you can still pack t-shirts, shorts, dresses, and hats. 

Christchurch is considered to be a fairly safe city as it has a low level of crime, however various crimes can still happen so it's best to stick to well-populated areas. It's also a good idea to avoid places or situations that make you feel uncomfortable, especially if you're traveling alone or moving around at night.

New Zealand is also located on a fault line so theoretically minor shakes and larger earthquakes can happen at any moment so it's always best to be prepared. 

Christchurch is a city where you can get many types of cuisines, ensuring there's a little something for everyone. Whether you're after Thai food or you fancy a bit of Italian, Christchurch is packed with the best restaurants to satisfy your hunger. Here are some of our favorites: 

• Indian Summer, central Christchurch
• Twenty Seven Step, central Christchurch
• Arbour Woodfire Pizza, Lyttelton
• Bacon Brothers, central Christchurch

We are committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.