Christchurch, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Christchurch, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to Christchurch, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Christchurch, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in Christchurch, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Christchurch, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Christchurch, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Christchurch, New Zealand by month

January

If you vacation in Christchurch during January, you are likely to see that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Christchurch is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to find the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Christchurch is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

Traveling to Christchurch in April, you will notice that it is chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Christchurch is crisp and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you are traveling to Christchurch in June, you will notice that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you choose the right type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

In July, Christchurch is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Christchurch, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Christchurch is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain regularly. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average. There is frost 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to pick the right type. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you vacation in Christchurch during September, you will probably see that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time. There is frost once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

In November, Christchurch is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Christchurch, with several of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Christchurch is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you are intending to go to the heavenly Cardboard Cathedral, it's worthwhile to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Gardens, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch is a beautiful city located on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. It's a city that attracts a large number of tourists who are interested in experiencing the natural beauty of New Zealand. The city is also known for its rich history, cultural significance, and stunning architecture. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Christchurch that you must visit:

1. Christchurch Botanic Gardens

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a popular tourist destination that covers an area of 21 hectares. The garden has a collection of native and exotic plants, trees, flowers, and herbs from all around the world. It's a great place to go for a walk, have a picnic, or just sit back and relax while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

2. Canterbury Museum

The Canterbury Museum is one of New Zealand's premier museums and is located in the heart of Christchurch. The museum features a unique collection of artifacts that reflect the history, culture, and natural environment of Canterbury. Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations that showcase the rich history of the region.

3. Christchurch Cathedral

The Christchurch Cathedral is a historical landmark and an iconic symbol of the city. It's a magnificent Gothic Revival-style cathedral that was built in the mid-19th century. The cathedral was badly damaged in the 2011 earthquake, but the rebuilding process is underway, and visitors can still enjoy the beauty of the iconic structure.

4. Antarctic Centre

The Antarctic Centre is an interactive and educational attraction that offers visitors an insight into the Antarctic environment. Visitors can experience a simulated snowstorm, ride on an all-terrain vehicle, and see live penguins. The attraction is a great way to learn more about the natural environment of Antarctica while having fun.

5. Port Hills

The Port Hills is a picturesque range of hills that borders the city of Christchurch. The hills provide visitors with stunning views of the city, the Southern Alps and the Canterbury Plains. Visitors can go for a hike, bike ride, or take a scenic drive to enjoy the breathtaking views.

6. Hagley Park

Hagley Park is a large park located in the heart of Christchurch. The park covers 407 hectares and features several walking tracks, sports fields, and playgrounds. Hagley Park is also home to two of Christchurch's most iconic attractions, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Canterbury Museum.

7. Quake City

Quake City is a museum that offers visitors an insight into the Christchurch earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. The museum features interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations that tell the story of the earthquakes and showcase the rebuilding process.

In conclusion, Christchurch is a city that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance. These top tourist attractions offer visitors a glimpse into the unique character of Christchurch and provide an unforgettable experience. If you're planning a trip to New Zealand, make sure Christchurch is on your itinerary.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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