Papanui Travel Guide
Christchurch
Popular places to visit
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.
Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
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.
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.
University of Canterbury
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Canterbury during your trip to Christchurch. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
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: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo
Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch with Lunch
Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill
Top hotels in Papanui
Tasman Holiday Parks - Christchurch
Safe clean friendly place
Reviewed on 8 Mar 2026
Hotel Elms Christchurch, an Ascend Collection Hotel
We got the room ahead of check in,was a great help. The staff were excellent to deal with and very friendly. Was a pleasure to stay at and would stay again if in Christchurch again
Reviewed on 12 Feb 2026
V Motel
The room was clean and all the furniture, kitchenware etc. in the room were in excellent condition.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Great location for shops and city centre.
Reviewed on 13 Mar 2026
Bealey Quarter
Comfortable clean rooms and a great location with easy walk to all the city centre activities and sights.
Reviewed on 13 Mar 2026
LyLo Christchurch
Close to airport, easy check in and out. Comfy. Nice common area. Good kitchen facilities. My first pod needed some fixing but nothing major .
Reviewed on 10 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Papanui
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.
Saint Albans
Saint Albans is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Papanui Road and Bealey Avenue while in the area.
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.
Ilam
Ilam is well liked for its bars. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Christchurch area, you might plan a trip to Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre or Bush Inn Centre.
Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.
