Southshore 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.
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.
University of Canterbury
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Canterbury during your trip to Christchurch. Visit the shops and charming cafes in this walkable area.
Things to do
Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch with Lunch
Christchurch City Highlights Half Day Tour
Kaikoura Whale Watch Tour from Christchurch - Small Group
Christchurch: Arthur ’s Pass + TranzAlpine Scenic Train
Half-day Sightseeing Tour of Christchurch
Top hotels in Southshore
Bealey Quarter
Excellent place to stay
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Handy location, central city so easy walk to bars and restaurants and transport hubs
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Sudima Christchurch Airport
offered us a free drink! even though we checked in at midnight, the staff were super nice
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
We arrived very late after significant flighy delays. The man chevking us in gave us a midday checkout which was much appreciated. Unfortunately he must have not updated the system as we were woken by staff knocking on the door, then a phone call, then our access card disabled.
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
LyLo Christchurch
Super-convenient to be able to extend your checkout time to 1pm for just $NZ10. A 10 minute walk to CHC
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
Wyndham Garden Christchurch Kilmore Street
Nothing special, does the job. Rooms are barely soundproof though. You need to request housekeeping fyi
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Southshore
Sumner
If you're spending some time in Sumner, Sumner Beach and Godley Head Lighthouse are top sights worth seeing.
New Brighton
You'll enjoy the beaches and parks in New Brighton. You might want to make time for a stop at New Brighton Beach or He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools.
Woolston
You'll enjoy the restaurants and gardens in Woolston. You might want to make time for a stop at The Tannery or Caddyshack City.
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.
Linwood
You'll enjoy the parks and shopping in Linwood. You might want to make time for a stop at Eastgate Mall or Wilding Park Tennis Center.
Waltham
While Waltham isn't home to many top sights, One New Zealand Stadium and Riverside Market are some notable places to visit nearby.
