For a city which punches well above its weight on the elite sporting stage, the quality of golf on offer in Ōtautahi Christchurch also catches many by surprise; the region remaining largely untapped and underrated as a golfing destination.
PUT THE STICKS DOWN
Before we venture out of the city, we will explore what else the surrounding area offers. Nothing is more critical than a rest day, taking in the sights, relaxing, shopping, eating well and having a drink. Especially if you’re away with a partner or the family. Christchurch has all you need and more.
On top of his endorsement of the Christchurch Golf Club, All Black Will Jordan urges visitors to explore the city centre. “Christchurch as a city has really taken off over the last three or four years, with the effects of the rebuild of the city following the 2011 earthquake coming into place,” he said.
“A popular spot for anyone visiting should be the Riverside Markets, right in the centre of town, which hosts a wide variety of food and drink options and has a great vibe.
“The city has good access to both the mountains in the winter and beaches in the summer, as well as numerous top-class golf courses within 20 minutes of each other.”
EAT
It would be impossible to list all the incredible eateries and restaurants Christchurch has to offer, so we have selected a couple of my favourites; as mentioned above, the Riverside Markets are an absolute beaut, offering something for everyone and right in the heart of the new city centre.
Just across the road on Cambridge Terrace sits Manu Restaurant & Bar, one of my favourite spots in Christchurch. “Manu” means bird in Māori, a nod to the restaurant’s vibrant, colourful spirit. It is where first-class dining meets a celebration of culture, blending New Zealand’s finest seasonal produce with influences from Māori, Asian and Pacifica traditions. The cuisine feels familiar yet daring, with each dish carrying a touch of something special.
Manu’s lively atmosphere and stylish, welcoming interior make it perfect for any occasion, whether a relaxed lunch, special dinner, or drinks with friends. The wine list is carefully curated to complement the menu, while warm, attentive service ensures you’re looked after when you arrive.
What sets Manu apart isn’t just the food or the setting – it’s how it captures the essence of Christchurch itself. There is a brilliance to every dish, a feeling you’re not just dining, but sharing in a moment. At Manu, it’s more than a meal; it’s an experience which stays with you.
Tucked away in the heart of Christchurch, Twenty Seven Steps feels like a well-kept secret. You won’t find it by chance; you’ve got to climb the stairs of a heritage building step by step until you reach a cosy dining room which feels like a world of its own. It is warm and inviting, a perfect mix of charm and refinement, where soft lighting and thoughtful decor set the tone for an evening long after you’ve finished dining.
RIGHT: Christchurch Tram. PHOTO: Supplied.
The menu celebrates seasonal New Zealand ingredients with contemporary European flair. It is the kind of food which feels comforting yet surprising – each dish carefully considered, every flavour doing its bit. The wine list offers the best local and international drops, perfectly matched to whatever you choose from the kitchen.
But it’s not just the food and drink which makes Twenty Seven Steps unique; it’s how the place seems to wrap around you, with a genuine hospitality turning a night out into something more. Here, it’s not about putting on a show – it’s about letting the quality and heart behind each meal speak for itself. At Twenty Seven Steps, you’re not just dining; you are part of something that feels timeless.
Tussock Hill Vineyard and Cellar Door Restaurant sits on the Port Hills, where the views are as captivating as the excellent wine. Family-run and organic, the winery’s all about letting the land speak for itself, with elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay reflecting the hillside terroir.
The Cellar Door Restaurant has a welcoming charm which invites you in for an experience, a chance to feel the connection between the vines and the glass. The on-site bistro serves up local flavours which perfectly match the wines. It is about sharing the craft and the land, making every visit special.
EXPLORE
The Christchurch Gondola is a must-do for anyone wanting to see the city from a new angle. As you ascend the Port Hills, the views unfold like a stunning postcard – lush greenery, the sprawling city below, and the distant coastline. It is a ride that wraps you in the region’s beauty, showing how special this place is.
Punting along the Avon River is a delightful way to experience Christchurch’s charm. Gliding gently through the serene waters, you’re surrounded by weeping willows and vibrant gardens, creating a peaceful oasis in the city’s heart. Guided by a skilled punter, this leisurely journey feels like a step back in time, offering a unique perspective on the beauty that defines the city.
The Christchurch Tram isn’t just a way to get around; it’s a journey through the city’s history. Climbing aboard a vintage carriage, you rattle along the tracks past iconic landmarks and hidden gems. With a conductor sharing tales of the past, each ride becomes an exploration, connecting you to the vibrant spirit of Christchurch as you soak in the sights around you.
SHOP
Ballantynes and The Crossing headline Christchurch’s fantastic and vibrant retail options.
RELAX
The Sunrise Soak at He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools is a slice of paradise inviting you to embrace the dawn most soothingly. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, these geothermal pools offer a serene escape where the warm, mineral-rich waters cradle you as the first light breaks over the horizon. There is something magical about watching the sunrise, the soft glow reflecting off the water while the world stirs to life around you. It is a moment of pure tranquility – a chance to breathe deeply and appreciate nature’s beauty, with the gentle sounds of the sea and the warmth of the pools wrapping you in comfort.
STAY
Fable Christchurch is a delightful blend of modern elegance and rich history, perfectly capturing the essence of the Garden City. Situated in the city centre, this stylish hotel offers a warm welcome with its chic décor and thoughtfully designed spaces. The on-site restaurant serves a menu filled with seasonal delights, showcasing the best New Zealand produce. With its convenient location, Fable is the perfect base for exploring Christchurch’s lively culture.
WHERE TO PLAY
Clearwater Golf Club
Sir Bob Charles Golf Centre
Russley Golf Club
Harewood Golf Club
Christchurch Golf Club
golfshop@christchurchgolf.co.nz
Waimakariri Gorge Golf Club
Fable Terrace Downs Resort
https://terracedowns.co.nz/golf/
golfshop@fableterracedowns.com
Pegasus Golf Club
https://pegasus-golfclub.co.nz/
MORE DETAILS
Manu Restaurant & Bar
Twenty Seven Steps
Tussock Hill Vineyard and Cellar Door Restaurant
Christchurch Gondola; Punting on the Avon; Christchurch Tram
He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools
Fable Hotel Christchurch
reservations@fablechristchurch.com
Ōpuke Thermal Pools & Spa
Fable Terrace Downs
Reservations@fableterracedowns.com
TRAVEL TIPS
If you require a rental car, the team at GO Rentals at Christchurch Airport will sort you out. A seamless process for a quality experience.
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