Ilam Travel Guide
Christchurch
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
Things to do

Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch

Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch With TranzAlpine

Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo

Arthurs Pass Day Trip From Christchurch via Castle Hill

Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram

Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill
Top hotels in Ilam

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Friendly and welcoming staff. Good facilities
Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025

Novotel Christchurch Airport
Clean room, great view of the airport
Reviewed on 19 Oct 2025

LyLo Christchurch
The room was very clean and bed sheets and blankets were very nice. Staff was amazing, very kind and helpful. Kitchen and area around is soo clean. Walkable distance to the airport which is very nice!
Reviewed on 16 Oct 2025

Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Bed and bathroom were nice, room was spacious. Lack of microwave was a huge miss. Having defrosted but still cold lunch that we brought was not nice, and the on-site food options were horrendously expensive, so we looked elsewhere in Christchurch for other food options. Parking was convenient and ...
Reviewed on 17 Oct 2025

Sudima Christchurch Airport
Shuttle was great. Convenient location
Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025

Christchurch City Hotel
It felt like a rough area when we came in to check in as a lot of people were outside the entrance being rowdy and smoking weed so we were quite worried but they left an hour or so later and then it was better. Just not a great fort impression
Reviewed on 13 Oct 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Ilam

Burnside
Travellers come to Burnside for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre and Russley Golf Club while you're in town.

Fendalton
Travellers like the historical sites in Fendalton, and Riccarton House is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.

Papanui
Unique features of Papanui include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Northlands Shopping Centre or Papanui Road while you're exploring the area.

Merivale
Travellers come to Merivale for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Merivale Mall and Papanui Road while you're in town.

Wigram
Parks and entertainment venues are just a few things travellers like about Wigram. A stop by Air Force Museum of New Zealand is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.