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

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

Contents

  1. When to go to Greater Christchurch
  2. Important essentials for Greater Christchurch
  3. Activities for Greater Christchurch
  4. Greater Christchurch in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Greater Christchurch in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Greater Christchurch in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Greater Christchurch in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Greater Christchurch in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Greater Christchurch in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Greater Christchurch in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Greater Christchurch in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Greater Christchurch in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Greater Christchurch in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Greater Christchurch in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Greater Christchurch in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Greater Christchurch, New Zealand

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you vacation in Greater Christchurch during January, you are likely to see that it is mild. 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). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Greater 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 recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

February

If you visit Greater Christchurch during February, you may find that it is balmy. 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). 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Greater 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to pick the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

March

In March, Greater Christchurch is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) and once in a while jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Greater Christchurch, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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 Greater 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you choose the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

April

April can be chilly. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Greater 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

May

If you vacation in Greater Christchurch during May, you will probably find that it is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Greater 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the right type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

In June, Greater Christchurch can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Greater Christchurch, with several of the days of the month having rain. 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 Greater Christchurch. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you find the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

July

July in Greater 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. There is frost 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Greater 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

If you vacation in Greater Christchurch during August, you may see that it can be brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. There is frost sometimes.

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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Greater 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

September in this region is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than 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 Greater 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 bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

October

If you vacation in Greater Christchurch during October, you will probably notice that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Greater 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to choose the correct kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

November

November in Greater Christchurch is balmy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

December in Greater Christchurch is balmy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Greater 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 things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

What to do in Greater Christchurch, New Zealand

Located on the east coast of the South Island, Greater Christchurch is a beautiful destination filled with stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and urban centers that provide visitors with an unforgettable experience. Tourists visiting this beautiful city will never run out of things to do and see; from the beautiful street art, heritage sites, beautiful beaches, and spectacular mountain ranges, Christchurch has it all. Here are the top tourist attractions in Greater Christchurch that visitors must check out.

1. Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a place like no other, boasting a collection of more than 10,000 exotic and native plants. The Gardens feature different theme areas, such as a rose garden, a rock garden, an herb garden, and a conservatory that showcases tropical plants.

2. Canterbury Museum

The Canterbury Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Christchurch. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and collections representing various aspects of Canterbury's cultural and natural history. The museum's Antarctic gallery is a must-see, displaying unique artifacts from the early explorers' expeditions to Antarctica.

3. Quake City

Quake City is a museum that documents the devastating earthquakes that rocked Christchurch in 2010 and 2011. Visitors can learn about the earthquake's impact on the city and how the community responded to this natural disaster. The museum also features photographs, interactive exhibits, and films that bring the experience to life.

4. Hagley Park

Hagley Park is a 161-hectare park in the heart of Christchurch. The park features footpaths, benches, and plenty of green spaces, making it a popular destination for picnics, walks, and outdoor events. Visitors can rent bikes or boats, which allows them to explore the river and the park from a different perspective.

5. Lyttelton Harbour

Lyttelton Harbour is a picturesque basin that is nestled between Mount Herbert and Banks Peninsula. The harbor is an excellent spot for fishing, boating, and hiking, with several tracks leading to scenic views over Christchurch and the surrounding countryside.

6. Akaroa

Akaroa is a peaceful French village located on the Banks Peninsula, about 84 km from Christchurch. With its stunning harbor, beautiful architecture, and quaint shops, Akaroa is the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Visitors can also take a boat trip to see the Hector's dolphins, the world's smallest and rarest dolphins.

7. The Arts Centre

The Arts Centre is a historic and cultural institution that occupies the former University of Canterbury campus. The Center is home to several public art galleries, theaters, museums, and creative spaces, making it a hub of creativity and inspiration.

In conclusion, Greater Christchurch has something to offer for everyone. From the botanical gardens to the Canterbury Museum, Quake City to Hagley Park, and Lyttelton Harbour to Akaroa, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's natural beauty, rich culture, and history. With so much to see and do, Greater Christchurch is a destination that should be on everyone's bucket list.

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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