Winter wonders What do in Christchurch this winter

By Ben O’Connell

minutes south of central Ōtautahi. Check out astro.nz for more.

Winter markets

Christchurch is home to a long list of artisan markets, offering ethical and sustainable fashion, homeware, gifts, and more. Born from Benny’s Barber Shop in 2017, the Nifty Markets are a crafty community of local small businesses. From artisan jugs to unique jewellery, Nifty is the place for you.

Central city nightlife

Whether you’re after live music and a groove or are keen to don an alcohol blanket, there’s a bevy of central Christchurch bars and restaurants to discover. Tower over central Ōtautahi with a drink or bite to match. Both the Mr Brightside and Pink Lady rooftop bars serve delicious beverages in the central city sky.

If heights aren’t your style, perhaps the underground Austin Club speakeasy is more your vibe. Make sure you know the password!

For live tunes, spots like OGB and Fat Eddies have you covered. To immerse yourself in the Terrace’s premium selection of restaurants, bars, and retail is to truly make the most of Christchurch.

If you’d rather sing yourself, pop into spots like Gogi and Midnight Shanghai for karaoke and good eats. Head to theterrace.co.nz or simply get yourself to Christchurch’s strip and let the moment whisk you away. You might even unearth a hidden gem of your own! CT

He Puna Taimoana

The weather might be cooling down, but things at He Puna Taimoana are only heating up. Only fifteen minutes from Christchurch city, enjoy striking ocean views while soaking in five luxurious hot pools along New Brighton Beach.

Relax and recover in the plunge pool and steam room, marvel in beachside views from the comfort of the sauna, and once you’re done, rehydrate at the café. These hot saltwater pools on the New Brighton foreshore have proved a cult attraction since their May 2020 opening.

Look to the skies

Early winter nights mean dark, clear skies waiting to be gazed upon. Unobstructed by light pollution, head to the Port Hills or Taylor’s Mistake for the best Ōtautahi views. Godley Head doubles as a vantage point for night views and a fantastic hiking spot, a trail enriched in World War II history.

For a curated look to the skies, explore the Observatory Tower at Te Matatiki Toi Ora – The Arts Centre. Behold the Southern Sky through the 1864 Victorian-era Townsend Teece Telescope, guided by Townsend astronomers from the University of Canterbury.

Heritage stargazing tours operate at Te Matatiki Toi Ora every winter Friday night. Spaces are limited so bookings are essential. Visit artscentre.org.nz/whats-on/heritage-stargazing for more.

Christchurch Astro Tours have expanded their range of tailored stargazing tours for winter 2023. Their local dark sky tour guides would love to fascinate you with expansive galaxies and mighty planets.

Christchurch Astro Tours runs from Greenpark Memorial Community Centre, Lincoln, 30

The suburb of Riccarton hosts a handful of markets, with about 10,000 people attending the Sunday market in Riccarton Park each week.

If you’re looking for something more boutique, the quaint Christchurch Farmers Market held at Riccarton House and Bush is for you. As the native wildlife enjoy the neighbouring Avon River, enjoy a fine selection of fresh produce and handcrafted gifts yourself. What’s not to love about a winter market?

Hot air ballooning

Escape with a magical hot air ballooning experience, offering panoramic views of the majestic Canterbury Plains. For an adventure as exciting as it is romantic, peacefully floating over an ever-changing Christchurch landscape is hard to beat. Capture some our nation’s most breath-taking views as the sun rises over the horizon.

Ballooning Canterbury operates all year round, with winter weather showcasing the snow-covered Southern Alps through typically cooler, clearer skies. Visit ballooningcanterbury.com to book your trip today.

New Brighton sunrise

Start your day off right and marvel in a picturesque sunrise at New Brighton Beach. Treat yourself to a view fit for a postcard, but be sure to bring a warm jacket. Just before the sun rises, low temperatures freeze the sand to create naturally striking patterns; an unmissable experience.

In fact, He Puna Taimoana offers a mesmerising sunrise soak. Take in the vibrant colours of daybreak while floating in luxurious hot saltwater pools. Booking is essential as numbers are strictly limited. Visit hepunataimoana.co.nz/sunrise-soak to secure your place.