Travel tips · Christchurch · New Zealand
Christchurch travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Bernard Spragg. NZ from Christchurch, New Zealand, CC0
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Quick answer
Christchurch is known for its English-influenced heritage, gardens and the resilience of its community after the earthquakes; the rebuild has also given more visible space to Ngāi Tahu, the South Island's principal iwi (tribe), whose stories shape new buildings and public art. Life is relaxed and outdoorsy, with people in walking boots or cycling gear as often as office clothes.
Key facts
- Language
- English and Māori
- Currency
- NZD
- Plugs
- Type I sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe to drink and generally of high quality.
- Emergency
- 111 (police, fire, ambulance)
Things to know
- 'Kia ora' (hello) is used widely, and attempts at Māori place names are appreciated.
- Dress is casual almost everywhere; smart-casual is enough for the best restaurants.
- Take your rubbish with you on walks and at beaches, and stay on marked tracks in reserves.
- If invited onto a marae (Māori meeting ground), follow your hosts' lead on protocol, including removing shoes before entering the meeting house.
- Drive on the left, give way to pedestrians at crossings and pull over to let traffic pass on rural roads.
- The Botanic Gardens, Hagley Park, the Art Gallery, the Air Force Museum, Tūranga and the beaches are free.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected; prices include tax and staff are paid a minimum wage. Leaving about 10% or rounding up for excellent service in a restaurant is appreciated but optional.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Kia ora | Hello / thank you (Māori) |
| Ka kite anō | See you again (Māori) |
| Sweet as | Great / no problem |
| Tramping | Hiking |
| Dairy | Corner shop |
| Jandals | Flip-flops |
What to wear
Pack layers and a waterproof jacket in every season: the weather changes quickly, an easterly breeze cools summer afternoons and the hot, dry nor'wester can push temperatures above 30°C.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type I sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is safe to drink and generally of high quality.
- Emergency number
- 111 (police, fire, ambulance)
- Phone and internet
- Prepaid SIM and eSIM plans from One NZ, Spark and 2degrees are sold at the airport; free Wi-Fi is available in the central city and libraries.
- Time zone
- Pacific/Auckland
Christchurch is generally relaxed for visitors. New Zealand is seismically active, so learn the 'Drop, Cover, Hold' drill; the sun's UV is very strong, and beaches can have rip currents, so swim between the flags.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check New Zealand's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Christchurch?
Tipping is not expected; prices include tax and staff are paid a minimum wage. Leaving about 10% or rounding up for excellent service in a restaurant is appreciated but optional.
+Can you drink the tap water in Christchurch?
Tap water is safe to drink and generally of high quality.
+What plugs are used in Christchurch?
Type I sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Christchurch?
English and Māori.