Governors Bay Travel Guide
Christchurch
Visit Governors Bay
Popular places to visit
Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
Sumner Beach
The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.
Hagley Park
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.
New Brighton Beach
Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.
Riccarton Road
During your visit to Christchurch, you can enjoy retail therapy at Riccarton Road. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Cathedral Square
You can learn about the history of Christchurch when you stop by Cathedral Square. Visit the cathedral in this walkable area or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do
Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo
Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill
Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch
Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill
Top hotels in Governors Bay
Bealey Quarter
Staff were quite friendly
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Very pleasant, cozy hotel in the centre of the city
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
All of the above
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Sudima Christchurch Airport
Friendliest staff. Great breakfast. Confortable room and bed. Lots of dining opportunities in the area. Wothin 10 minutes of walking of the airport..Right next to Antarctic Center which should not be missed.
Reviewed on 26 Dec 2025
Sudima Christchurch City
Amazing
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
LyLo Christchurch
Clean and efficient, great for short stays pre/post flight
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Governors Bay
Cashmere
You'll enjoy the mountain views and gardens in Cashmere. You might want to make time for a stop at Port Hills or Clearwater Golf Resort.
Lyttelton
You'll enjoy the sandy beaches and museums in Lyttelton. You might want to make time for a stop at Lyttelton Harbour or Lyttelton Farmers Market.
Spreydon
Spreydon might not have many top sights, but Wolfbrook Arena and Apollo Projects Stadium are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Halswell
Halswell might not have many top sights, but Air Force Museum of New Zealand and Christchurch Adventure Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Sydenham
Sydenham is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like The Colombo and Supa Karts.
Woolston
You'll enjoy the restaurants and gardens in Woolston. You might want to make time for a stop at Caddyshack City or The Tannery.
