Christchurch

Things To Do

10 Ways To Celebrate Māori Language Week 2024

Māori Language Week is just around the corner (14-21 Mahuru/September to be exact) and here are 10 ways to celebrate. 

Things To Do With Pets

10 Of The Best Dog-Friendly Walks In New Zealand

Taking your pup for a walk is all very well until you realise you’re in a park that’s a no-go for pooches. Talk about barking up the wrong tree. Luckily, there’s a whole lot of dog-friendly walks you can waltz along to your heart’s content, your fur baby by your side.

Food & Drink

Get Out Of Auckland, 8 Restaurants Across Aotearoa Worth Travelling For In 2024

There’s certainly no shortage of mouth-watering restaurants outside of Auckland, and this poses a delicious problem: where do you eat when you’re surrounded by choices?

What's On

Secure Tickets For These Unmissable Black Ferns Matches At Wallet-Friendly Prices

At long last, women’s sport is taking centre stage and we are here. for. it. As we head into the cooler months, all eyes are on our Black Ferns and their highly-anticipated 2024 test calendar. 

Pets

6 Purrfect Cat Cafes Around New Zealand To Get Your Feline Fix

If you’re looking to squash that nervous energy this year we’ve compiled five cat cafes around New Zealand so you can catch up on some much needed cuddles.

Pets

9 Of The Most Dog-Friendly Beaches Across Aotearoa

Picture the perfect day with your pup and we bet it includes a trip to the beach. 

Things To Do

6 Fun Ways To Embrace Rugby World Cup When You’re Not A Fanatic

So if you don’t know your drop kick from your dropout, don’t worry, you can still get some skin in the game.

Local Escapes

14 Of The Best Luxury Hotels In New Zealand

We’ve got the buzz on the best luxury hotels around the country, so you can be drinking champagne in a spa pool as soon as physically possible. Start packing those bags.

Things To Do

50 Of The Best Things To Do In Christchurch At Least Once In Your Life

Ōtautahi is an absolute gem of a city—there’s not a lot it doesn’t have. Beaches? Yes. Arts and culture? Absolutely. Outdoor excursions? You bet. A bunch more fun stuff? By the bucket load! So go get out there and explore it with our list of 50 of the best things to do in Christchurch. 

Markets & Food Events

Sweet Outdoor Events Because Summer’s Far From Over

Together with Lipton Ice Tea, we're serving up seven of the best outdoor events, festivals and things to do in New Zealand over March and April. 

Features

Cyclone Gabrielle Relief | How To Offer Your Support

Here we are again, whānau. Cyclone Gabrielle, hot on the tail of the recent floods, has put further strain on our communities. Here are 11 ways you can contribute to the Cyclone Gabrielle relief effort.

Things To Do

Level Up Your Next NZ Escape With These Stunning Hotel Deals

If you’re longing for a summer break but are short on time and funds, why not check out some gems on our very own doorstep? A summer on the Land of the Long White Cloud has so much to offer—even in terms of bargain hotel deals.

Things To Do

The Best Escape Rooms In Christchurch To Break Out Of

If you reckon yourself pretty logical, or maybe you’re the team’s creative, or even you’re the one who’ll touch every single thing in sight just to see if something will happen, tag a team together to conquer these Christchurch Escape Rooms.

Entertainment

Bless Your Ears With This Kiwi Music Playlist, As Nominated By You

We might be biased, but one thing is for sure; Aotearoa punches above its weight with our homegrown music talent. 

Things To Do

The Best Halloween Costume Ideas For 2022 That Are Actually Good

Double double toil and trouble, fire burn and cauldron bubble. The most frightful night of the year approaches—it’s time to get spooky with these actually good Halloween costume ideas. 

Features

Find Out The Latest News On The COVID Traffic Light System In NZ

Stay up to date with our live list of the latest updates of restrictions around Auckland and New Zealand.

Things To Do

8 Best Date Ideas In Christchurch So You Can Turn Up The Heat

Whoever said romance was dead has obviously never visited Christchurch. From delightful pastries and gelato to share to gorgeous accommodation options and everything in between, we’ve done the research and found the most romantic things to do in Christchurch.

Local Escapes

6 Of The Best Walks In Christchurch

Everyone who’s anyone knows New Zealand will deliver when it comes to walking tracks and the heart of Canterbury is certainly no exception. From your 30-minute morning run before work to a Sunday spent adventuring the outdoors, Christchurch has it all. With spectacular views and plenty to get the blood pumping, we’re here to share the best walking tracks and trails of our suitably titled Garden City.

Fitness

9 Of The Best Running Tracks In Christchurch

For a completely free workout, lace up your running shoes, put in your ear buds and head outside to explore the absolute best running tracks in Christchurch.

Things To Do

Roll Up, Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq And Holey Moley Are Hitting Christchurch This October

After taking Auckland by storm, entertainment masters Funlab have announced they’re opening an Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq AND a Holey Moley right in the heart of Christchurch. Yes and yes. 

What's On

Inside Dali: The Epic Multi-Sensory Digital Exhibition Has Just Extended Its Auckland Run

A next-level digital exhibition about the godfather of surrealism Salvador Dali is coming to New Zealand this May, direct from electrifying audiences in Florence, Italy.

What's On

Doc Edge | 8 Of The Best Documentaries You Need To Watch At The 2022 Festival

If you’re looking for something to watch as it gets colder to cosy up in a cinema or at home, the full Doc Edge Festival programme is now live with over 100 feature length and short films to sink your teeth into.

Things To Do

Scope Out These Neon Art Installations Popping Up Around The Country And Win

There's nothing we love more than scoping out the latest creative displays. Plus, when it's paired with the chance to pick up epic prizes, you can count us in. 

Things To Do

The Best Things To Do In New Zealand This December

We're counting down the days till when can get out and make the most of summer. Because after the year that was, we’re so ready for a break from the daily desk, coffee, walk, repeat routine.

Fitness

11 At Home Workouts From Top Local Personal Trainers To Try This Lockdown

From live yoga and pilates-inspired workouts, to world-renowned Les Mills classes, getting fit at home has never been easier (or more accessible). So chuck on your trainers, clear a space in your living room or head to the driveway, and get moving. 

What's On

Get Your Heart Pumping At This Epic Free Speaker Series Hitting New Zealand

What if we told you that you had a billion dollars to spend? Well, it’s your lucky day, because you already are a billionaire; of heartbeats, at least. We’re all born with about 2.5 BILLION heartbeats to spend over our lifetime. Surely, we’ve got to invest these heartbeats into something meaningful.

Christchurch

The Best Workouts In Christchurch To Pit Yourself Against

We’ve rounded up the best workouts in the Garden City for you to try out and get hooked on. Why not push yourself to a whole new level by switching up your workout and get that glow going. 

What's On

Banff Mountain Film Festival Is Coming To A Screen Near You So Get Ready For The Adrenalin Rush

Adventure enthusiasts, unite! Banff Mountain Film Festival is just around the corner and it’s packed with enough jaw-dropping moments to set even the most adrenaline junkie of hearts a flutter. 

What's On

Van Gogh Alive Is Packing Up This Sunday 23 May

Now you'll be able to have your own Emily In Paris moment as the full-scale, indoor exhibition will be touring stadium-sized venues in Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland next year. Yep, get ready to snap up those tickets.

Features

Recycle Boutique Has Gone Online So You Can Now Scout That Coveted Piece From Home

Time to let op-shop fever set in. Whether you could easily lose a day browsing pre-loved goodies, or you’ve come across some of the harrowing stats about the clothing industry, there’s no denying the demand for second-hand clothes is growing.

Features

Scoop Up Large On Ben And Jerry’s Pokemon Go-Like Virtual Easter Egg Hunt

Ben & Jerry's have launched what's potentially the world's largest-ever Easter egg hunt—with 10,000 scoops of free ice cream thrown into the mix, no less—and you're invited. Now if you're wondering what the heck a virtual Easter egg hunt is or more importantly, how you can get involved—here's the scoop.

New Zealand

Grab Your Carabiners, Here’s Where To Find New Zealand’s Best Canyoning Spots

If you’re on constant lookout for new adventure and enjoy a healthy dose of adrenaline in your bloodstream, then canyoning is a must. 

Features

Let Your Creative Juices Flow, Boozy Painting In The Park Is Back This Summer

Get ready to get the drinks and your creative juices flowing at this boozy painting in the park.

New Zealand

8 Stunning New Zealand Lakes You Need To Visit At Least Once

Whether it’s the reflection lakes of Wanaka or the emerald green waters that crater the Tongariro Crossing, Aotearoa is home to some amazing bodies of water. 

Christchurch

These Are The Best Markets In Christchurch, Grab Your Reusable Bags

No weekend is complete without some market hopping. Christchurch is a city full of quality markets — from street food markets to those selling homemade and second-hand wares. Come satisfy your stall-crawling cravings with the best live music, bargains and goods from local creatives, food producers and musicians. These are the best markets in Christchurch this winter.

Features

Dig Out That Gym Gear And Train For Free All This Week Across NZ

Round up your exercise crew because our friends over at Snap fitness are throwing open their doors this week to let you work up a sweat for free.

Features

Cookie Crusher Collins VS Jacinda Fever, Cast Your Vote At This Epic Christchurch Gelato Store

One of Christchurch’s most well-loved (and epic) gelato stores is letting you cast your vote for the upcoming elections in the most mouth-watering way possible. Rollickin Gelato’s ‘scoop poll’ lets you over indulge in creamy, organic deliciousness, all in the name of politics. Who knew it could be so fun?

Features

Find Out The Latest News On COVID Restrictions In Auckland And The Rest Of NZ

After 102 days clear of community transmission and a sudden lockdown, it's been announced that Auckland will join the rest of New Zealand at Alert Level 1 from midnight on Wednesday October 7.  We've rounded up the info on everything you can and can't do at this alert level so bone up, and proceed with caution.

Things To Do

Take A Seat, This Mind-Bending Audio Experience Will Make You Question Reality

Darkfield, famous for their FLIGHT multi-sensory shipping container experience, have crafted a new experience specifically tailored to the socially distanced era.

Local Escapes

Explore Your Own Backyard With The South Island’s Best Tourist Attractions

COVID-19 may have meant goodbye to this year's Euro-trip, but it's now the perfect time for us to explore our beautiful country without the 3.5 million-plus tourists that visit each year. We've put together a list of well-known (and a few more secret) spots around the South Island you need to check out now that tourist numbers are down—and the best part is, a lot of these places are free.

Features

Get In Quick, There Are Still Flights Available Around NZ for Just $21

Check out of work and on to the next available flight with Jetstar’s epic Hello NZ sale. 

Features

Learn What The New Alert Levels Mean For New Zealand This Week

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced that the country is being moved up to alert level 4 as of midnight on the 25 March 2020 as we battle to contain the virus that has swept over the globe.

Christchurch

Why North Canterbury’s Coolest Little Wine And Food Festival Needs To Be On Your Radar

If you love feasting, dancing and good wine, you’ll want to block out Sunday March 8 in your calendar ASAP and get yourself to New Zealand’s coolest little wine and food festival.

Christchurch

What Not To Miss At This Year’s World Buskers Festival In Christchurch

February has shaped up to be quite the crazy, magical and entertaining month here in the Chur because the circus has come to town.

Features

Grab Your Glass, A Mighty Gin Festival Is Coming To Auckland And Christchurch

If you’re anything like us here at Urban List, you’ll be all about the epic resurgence that gin has been experiencing of late. Well hold on to your hats gin fans because you’ll soon be able to sip your way through 15 craft gins from local and international brands.

Christchurch

8 Of The Best Camping Spots In Christchurch For You To Sleep Under The Stars

With bright blue skies, scorching temperatures and sultry nights there’s no better way to enjoy the summer than escaping the city for a little while and basking in the glory of Mother Nature. In our beautiful neck of the woods, we have some of the best views in the world—so dig up that old tent, find your best swimmers and stock up on the lollies because we’ve found the best camping spots in Christchurch.  

What's On

We Know Where You Can Sip Wine And Watch Movies Under The Stars

Sure, the calendar says it’s spring, but the ever-rising mercury has us thinking we might just have scored ourselves another endless summer. Which means it’s the perfect time to enjoy all things alfresco… especially when it comes to the flicks.

Christchurch

Relax, The Largest Health And Wellbeing Complex In NZ Has Just Opened In Christchurch

Whether you fancy a bit of yoga, desire the comfort of some baked goods or are seeking to be a little healthier—look no further than The Welder, the largest Health and Wellbeing complex in the country.

Christchurch

Amp Up, We’ve Found Cadbury’s Drool-Worthy Caramilk Pop Up Cafe

Apparently Cantabrians are the biggest Caramilk fans in New Zealand and Cadbury has taken notice. They’ve crowned Christchurch the Caramilk Capital of New Zealand and partnered with the local legends at C1 Espresso. 

Features

Sink Your Teeth In, Krispy Kreme Is Popping Up in Christchurch

It’s been a long wait, but those shiny, deep-fried delights Krispy Kreme is famous for will finally be touching down in the South with a pop-up shop not to be missed.

Fashion

Get Your Rummage On At One Of Christchurch’s Best Vintage and Op Shops

Finding quality second hand clothes that won’t break the bank involves a bit of effort, so we’re here to help you discover the very best thrift and op shops Christchurch has to offer.

Beauty

South Islanders, Get Your Beauty Fix At MECCA’s New Christchurch Concept Store

Clear out your makeup bag Christchurch, MECCA is opening a new store and you won’t want to miss this one.

U:L Recommends

Spend Up, We Know Where To Find Christchurch’s Best Boutiques

Whether you’re looking for that one-off piece or the trendiest, must-have item of the season, we’ve scoured the racks to bring you all the must-visit boutiques in Christchurch.

Things To Do

9 Epic Things To Do In Christchurch When The Sun Goes Down

While Christchurch isn’t exactly a 24-hour city like say, Tokyo or London, we still have plenty of options for evening entertainment. Whether it’s catching a live gig, heading to a local restaurant or something more active, we’ve done the research and discovered the best things to do at night in Christchurch. 

Travel

Hype Up, Here’s How You Can Score A Free Holiday

Smartphone brand Oppo have just launched an amazing deal which could score you a free stay in a jaw-dropping glass eco-cabin in the heart of the Waipara Valley. 

Beauty

Get On Board—Sephora’s Beauty Bus Tour Has Just Been Announced

The bus will be a truly interactive experience that showcases an exclusive selection of products that will be available to swatch, try and play at the custom-built makeups stations.

What's On

10 Of The Best Free Things To Do In Christchurch

Geographically-blessed, our city has easy access to the beach and the Port Hills, which means there’s a whole host of free activities at your disposal. So, if you’re strapped for cash or just on the lookout for activities that don’t cost an arm and a leg, don’t despair. For the active to the arty, there are heaps of activities in Christchurch that are completely free and heaps of fun. These are the best free things to do in Christchurch.

What's On

45 Things That Are So Christchurch It Hurts

We love you, Christchurch. We constantly complain about your lack of public transport while parked in a bike lane, but being so close to the Southern Alps and the beach has its perks. There’s nothing better than skiing in the morning and surfing in the afternoon,

Cafes

Here’s Where To Find The Best Cafés In Christchurch

When it comes to cafés in Christchurch, we’re a lucky bunch. We have an excellent assortment scattered throughout the city from the CBD to Sydenham and Riccarton, and everywhere in between.