The Wine Bars Winning Over Christchurch Ōtautahi
8 Businesses Championing Sustainability in Ōtautahi
Championing sustainability is no easy feat, but these businesses are walking the walk and making a positive impact on the world around us.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Elisha Blogg
Elisha Blogg grew up in pre-quake Christchurch before taking off overseas for nearly ten years. When she was pregnant with their first child, Elisha and her partner Mike moved to Christchurch to be closer to the much-appreciated support of her folks, and landed in New Brighton in 2018. Six years, two tiny humans, one very needy black cat and their second New Brighton home later, they have immersed themselves into the culture and community. They cannot imagine living in any other part of Ōtautahi Christchurch. We chatted to Elisha about her favourite experiences in New Brighton and what makes it special.
The Best Eats Down Riccarton Road
While for some Riccarton Road may conjure up images of slow crawling traffic, BYOs gone rogue or adolescent moments at the mall that they’d rather forget, the quantity of exceptional eateries makes up for the road’s lesser qualities.
The Neat Places team’s favourite places to brunch
Here at Neat Places, we're certainly partial to great food – and brunch is no exception. We've spilled the beans on our team's favourite spots around the country to enjoy a slow morning over eggs, smashed avo, pancakes, omelettes, and more goodness...
Ashburton is the New Black - A New Look Guide to this Mid Canterbury Town
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Jenna Ingram's Picks of the Neatest Things to do in New Brighton
Jenna Ingram is a Canadian-born, New Zealand-raised artist, mother, occasional MC/singer, and keen gardener who is slightly obsessed with growing and pickling pickles. She’s also the co-owner and Director of Fiksate Gallery, New Zealand's leading Urban Art gallery. We chatted to Jenna about her experiences in New Brighton and what makes it special.
Christchurch's Finest Places To Go For A Cocktail
No matter the weather it's always the right time for a cocktail. It could be the height of summer, the sun is shining, you’re with good friends and fruity concoctions are flowing. Or perhaps the temperatures have taken a dive, cosy vibes are key and your drink of choice also has the job of providing some much-needed warmth.
Shafeeq Ismail's Favourite Christchurch Food Spots
Chef Shafeeq Ismail gives us an insight into some of his favourite food spots in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Elevate Your Lunch in Christchurch's CBD
When it comes to meals throughout the day, breakfast is touted as the most important and dinner often gets all the glory, however, we say there is a serious case to be made for lunch being the best. In Christchurch’s city centre, there are plenty of options to satisfy your twelve o’clock hunger.
The Best Christchurch Spots For An Iced Drink This Summer
How to Survive a Hot Summer’s Day in Christchurch
Is it getting hot in here or has El Niño finally come to town? While sticking your head in the freezer all day may be a tempting solution, we’ve got some slightly more interesting ideas that don’t involve frozen peas.
Where You'd Rather Be: The Best Mediterranean Restaurants in Christchurch
Pizza and paella, souvlakis and sangria, cannoli and croissants… There’s a reason we’re always pining over the Mediterranean way of life.
Neatest Places in Christchurch for an Ice Cream
On a hot day in Christchurch, there’s no better way to cool down than with a delicious iced delight.
Dine Out on the Neat Places’ Team's Restaurant Picks
If there’s one thing we can be certain of, it’s that New Zealand’s restaurant scene is up there with the best. Whether it’s cheap eats or silver service, our country really does have it all. Our Neat Places team has taken the time to each pick their absolute favourite (or two!) places for dinner across the country and their reasoning behind each selection. Expect casual eateries and breweries to Italian pasta houses and Asian eats - there really is quite the range.
In Our Book: Here are the Best Bookshops in Christchurch Ōtautahi
There is a certain kind of feeling you get when you enter a good bookshop, it’s warm and inviting, and a sense of cosiness and calm takes over. The scent of hundreds and thousands of pages waiting to be discovered and devoured is nostalgic, and it is easy to lose an hour or two browsing the aisles deliberating over your next read. In Ōtautahi Christchurch, we are blessed with a stellar number of bookstores, from a specialist children’s shop, booksellers that have been in the city for generations and second-hand shops that ensure literary gems reach the hands of new readers. So whether you are on the hunt for the latest bestseller, looking to build up your child’s library collection or happiest when spending an afternoon amongst stacks and rows of books, here’s your guide (in no particular order) to enjoying the best bookshops around the city.
Fill your Christmas Table with Christchurch’s Best
Best of 2023: The Neatest Newcomers of Christchurch’s Food Scene
Rolleston Fields: Experience the New Side to Rolleston
Hit the motorway heading south from the centre of Christchurch, and in a mere 15-20 minutes, you’ll arrive in New Zealand’s fastest-growing town, Rolleston. Once dubbed “the town of the future”, it’s apparent this is now very much a reality with a booming population, plenty of investment and exciting new developments appearing on the scene. With its modern, design-led town centre, it’s clear to see why so many people from around the country and further afield are choosing to call Rolleston home.
Our Pick of the Tastiest Veggie Burgers in Christchurch
Ask a kid what their favourite food is, and you’re bound to get a simple answer: a burger. Ask a grown-up, and who knows what answer you’ll get, but in all honesty, there’s really that kid within most of us who finds digging their teeth into a good burger a satisfaction unlike anything else.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Cam Burgess of Southpaw
Cam Burgess is the co-owner and brewer of Southpaw Beers, a New Brighton brewery that's currently brewing in Hornby South for the time being. However, don’t let that fool you; Southpaw is New Brighton through and through, and their tagline, 'bringing flavour home', is a nod to their desire to open a brewery in New Brighton, where Cam grew up and where he and his partner Penny now raise their two boys Paeroa and Atakura. We chatted with Cam about his Brighton memories and what he loves about living in this staunch coastal suburb.
Venture forth: Your Guide to the Best of Banks Peninsula
The Recipe for a Neighbourhood Institution with Sarah Freeman of The Birdwood
The Emerging Organic Wine Brands of Waipara, North Canterbury
The Tale of Tussock Hill; The Journey of Vineyard to Table on Christchurch’s Port Hills
New Zealand’s Top Hotels For Unforgettable Staycations
Forget the stale hotel stereotypes; New Zealand's staycation scene is flourishing with bold character and unrivalled charm.
An Interview with Josh Bradshaw of Sonder Leather Goods
Venture Out: A Day Trip from Christchurch in Every Direction
Culinary Inspirations: Behind the Scenes with Sweet Soul Pâtisserie's Rea Scur
As a passionate Francophile and self-confessed sweet tooth, Nicola Amy Hinman was rather excited to chat with Rea Scur, one half of the incredibly talented sister duo behind Christchurch Ōtautahi’s favourite pâtisserie, about her culinary inspirations and the creative process behind their exquisite desserts.
Exploring The Terrace: An Insider’s Guide
Your Guide to Second-Hand Clothes Shopping in Christchurch
The neatest second-hand clothing finds in the ‘03.
Where to Catchup With Friends During the Week in Christchurch
Weekends aren’t the only time for catching up with friends, and they no longer hold the monopoly on being when you can have some fun.
Five Late Night Spots in Christchurch for Coffee, Treats & Sweets
For night owls in search of a cosy corner to enjoy excellent coffee, dessert or cake, Christchurch has a few hidden gems perfect for enjoying leisurely evenings with great company.
Connect With Your Core At The Best Pilates Studios In Christchurch
Tired of lifting weights, sweating out in a HIIT session or just looking to shake up your fitness routine? A low-impact (yet still highly effective) Pilates class might be what you are after. Here are our picks of the best Pilates studios in Christchurch.
From Novice To Advanced Yogi, These Are The Best Yoga Studios in Christchurch
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Matt Morris, The Urban Monk
A taste of Mexico in Christchurch: The city's best Mexican restaurants
Our Pick of the Best Indian Restaurants in Christchurch
Who doesn’t love a good curry with perfectly cooked rice and soft Naan bread? Add to that a side of raita, some onion bhajis, plus a mango lassi or perhaps a nice cold beer, and let the feast begin!
How to Slow Down in Ashburton: A Guide to Elevating The Drive Through
From gua buns to boutiques, artistry and espresso, there’s more to Ashburton than meets the eye. So next time you pass through this Mid Canterbury town, put your foot on the brakes and try some curated exploration. You’ll leave feeling better off for it.
Table For One: The Best Solo Dining Spots In The Garden City
Go on, free yourself.
Christchurch's Sweetest Treats: Where to Find the City's Best Desserts
This may be a bold statement… but the best (and often most overlooked) meal of the day would have to be dessert. While some may argue that it doesn’t qualify as a meal, we would very much counter this, and our evidence lies in the many sweet sensations you can find around Christchurch Ōtautahi. One of the greatest qualities dessert has going for it, in our humble opinion, is you can eat it any time of the day. From a decadent pastry with your morning coffee to a treat-yourself-ice-cream moment to a lavish creation enjoyed post-dinner.
To Methven & Beyond: A Weekend Getaway Guide
Mid-Canterbury Adventures & Where to Treat Yourself Afterwards
Mid Canterbury is a district well worth visiting, as there are endless tramping opportunities, thermal pools, motorsport and adventure-filled gems.
How to Spend Autumn in Christchurch Ōtautahi
Put on your flannel and get ready to explore. This South Island city is teeming with the best things to do in autumn.
Dinner and a Show? Here are our Picks on Where to Dine and be Entertained in Christchurch
Make a night out in Christchurch Ōtautahi with our roundup of the best places to enjoy dinner and a show.
From Udon Noodles to Yakitori: Here are Our Picks for Christchurch's Best Japanese Restaurants
Just like food from any country, Japanese cuisine has an array of regional specialities that have been created from local ingredients and traditional recipes. The best way to sample these would be to take a culinary tour across the island nation, but luckily for us in Christchurch, the city offers a number of authentic Japanese restaurants, all with their own speciality.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Hamish Evans from Switch
Mangia Italiano: Where to find Christchurch's finest Italian restaurants
Fast and Flavourful: Our Must-Try Takeaways In Christchurch
Where to Dine as a Big Group in Christchurch
Planning a birthday celebration, special occasion or just a big catchup with friends or family? Inevitably one of the first thoughts that pops into your head is where to go and will there be enough space for a larger group. Luckily in Christchurch, we’ve got some pretty neat spots that have you covered when it comes to booking a big table or will happily rearrange things to make it work for your numbers. So let us take the pressure off trying to find a location, all you need to do is peruse our best-of list, make a booking and you are all sorted to enjoy whatever celebration or occasion you are organising.
Seats in the City: Best Seats in Ōtautahi Christchurch
People watching and view gazing are among life’s small pleasures, and there’s nothing quite like walking into your favourite café and seeing the prime table empty and beckoning you. Now while this may seem like a bit of an exaggeration, anyone who has ever ended up seated by the bathroom or a swinging kitchen door will be nodding their heads in agreement.
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Samantha Fay
Meet Samantha Fay, a textile and fibre artist who calls New Brighton, Christchurch Ōtautahi home. Here is her guide to this beachside suburb.
Best Urban Wine Experiences in New Zealand
All around New Zealand, we are blessed with incredible wine experiences right in our own urban backyard. No matter your vino preference from a classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc to a Central Otago Pinot Noir or perhaps an interesting blend from a far away European vineyard, you don’t have to travel far to sample and enjoy a glass or two (responsibly of course!).
Catherine & Lin from New Brighton Community Gardens
Best Things To Do In Christchurch This Spring
On a gorgeous day, it’s hard to beat Ōtautahi Christchurch in the springtime as the garden city comes into its own.
Where to Find Christchurch’s Best Burgers
If you are looking for a good burger in Christchurch, you don't have to look very far!
A Wondrous Walking Guide to Christchurch Ōtautahi
A Guide to Shopping and One of a Kind Fashion in Christchurch
A Guide to Architecture and Art in Christchurch
10 South Island Ski Fields and Bars for Your Après-Ski
Memorable Christchurch Accommodation Worth Travelling for
Christchurch Food Guide: Alex Davies of Gatherings
Chef Alex Davies gives us his insight into some of the best places for food in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
The Key Ingredients for a Wellness Weekend in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Now more than ever people are making their health a priority, often travelling around the country to get the very best wellness experiences.
The Ultimate Local's Guide to Christchurch & Surrounds
Christchurch Ōtautahi is proud to be a place full of rich experiences that no matter where your interests lie or what stage of life you are at, this city is sure to deliver in spades. Armed with local insider knowledge, this guide gives you the very best that Christchurch Ōtautahi has to offer and ensures you won’t run out of things to do anytime soon.
Welcome to Eating & Drinking in Christchurch's East Block
The 'East Block' is home to many of Christchurch, Ōtautahi's best bars and restaurants. You will find a various range of cultures to meet every occasion.
Fill Your Picnic Basket with Sydenham's Finest Artisan Food & Drinks
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Reuben Woods
Bottoms Up ... 9 of the Best South Island Pubs
Pack up the car, gather a group of mates and most importantly designate a sober driver… it’s time to embark on a tour of the South Island.
Aotearoa's Underground Haunts, Rooftops and The In-betweens
South Town
Some Like It Hot: A Guide To New Zealand’s Best Hot Pools
Christchurch's Secret Spaces and Places
There’s something thrilling about discovering a secret place. Whether it be a little speakeasy underground or a garden not on any map, it’s a gift for you to enjoy.
10 Craft Beer Destinations To Add To Your South Island Getaway
Free Things To Do in Christchurch Ōtautahi
Even without spending a cent, you can enjoy the rich history and beautiful landscape that Christchurch has to offer.
7 Urban Hotels Worth Travelling For
In the UK, the term ‘city-break’ is frequently used to describe a weekend away visiting the European city of the moment, exploring everything on offer and most often staying in boutique accommodation. Now, we may be thousands of miles away from being able to achieve a casual few days in a European city, but here in New Zealand, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to urban hotels that are worth travelling around the country for.
New Brighton
New Brighton Good Life Guide: Sam & Caroline at The Burger Joint
7 South Island Road Trips to Add to Your Bucket List
7 Café and Restaurant Interiors that will set your heart aflutter in Ōtautahi
Forget Pinterest, head to these Christchurch spots for major mood board inspo.
Crazy about Hazy? All about the stouts? Time to read our CHC Craft Beer Guide
8 Unexpected Things To Do in Christchurch
Take the lesser known track and try our list of unexpected places to visit in Christchurch.
Get Acquainted at the Chef’s Table at these Christchurch Spots
Dine up close and personal.
Time to Mastermind an Outing with Your Family at One of These Kid Friendly Spots
Let's Celebrate Women in Hospitality
To mark International Women's Day, we reached out to five women who live and breathe hospitality in Christchurch. These women put in the hard yards, work tirelessly (dishes and all) and have the energy and stamina to do hospo day in day out with a smile in tow. We have massive respect for that.
Amongst their answers a common thread emerges. These Women - sommieliers to gelato makers - love connecting with people. It is inspiring to hear how they chose their path (or rather it choosing them in some cases) and they've shared some tips for budding hospo wāhine out there.
Great hair days on repeat with Christchurch’s best hairdressers
Stock Up On Vinyl At The 8 Best Record Stores In New Zealand
Give Spotify a rest and throw your money behind local artists and record retailers.
Tick Off Your Reading List At New Zealand’s Independent Bookshops
Get the Glow with Christchurch's Best Facials
There’s no better time than the present to get your glow on with a facial from one of Christchurch's best facialists. With specialists in all corners of the city, a facial is the perfect way to relax, rejuvenate and refresh. Catering to all skin-types, and genders alike, your next pamper session is sure to leave you feeling lit from within, while giving your skin the tender love and care that it needs.
Score The Inside Scoop On New Zealand’s Best Ice Cream And Gelato Spots
Best on Bread: 7 Carby Delights to Eat Your Way Across Christchurch
CHC Institutions We Love
Still going strong after 10 plus years, and there's a whole multitude of reasons why.
Quirky Christmas Shopping in Christchurch
Nary a big-box gift insight, we’ve curated a list of alternative shops that will make your Christmas gift-giving one-of-a-kind.
Christchurch’s Art Galleries and Where To Grab a Drink Afterwards
From heritage spaces to dealer galleries, here are the best places to get your dose of art culture in Christchurch, and where to grab a drink afterwards.
Kid-friendly Spots in Christchurch for Your next Family Day Out
Head to any of these Christchurch locations for parent and kid friendly experiences sure to delight on all levels.
Get to Know the North Canterbury Wine Region
9 Reasons You Should Visit North Canterbury's Cellar Doors
Drool-worthy Donut Spots You Need to Devour in Christchurch
Upgrade Your Home Cooking with the Best Craft Food Stores in Christchurch
Grocery Stores, Farmers' Markets & Local Growers
Snack Your Way Through 9 of the Best Baos in Christchurch
You may not have heard of bao buns before, but we can guarantee you’ll quickly become addicted from the first bite.
Where To Get Your American Food and Drink Fix in Christchurch
American food spans many cultures, locations and cuisines, making it an exciting and varied cuisine.
7 Must-shop Menswear Stores in Christchurch
The Christchurch menswear scene has graduated from jeans and a t-shirt, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
How to Spend an Afternoon in New Brighton
Where to Find the Best Pastries in Christchurch
Pastry has been kicking around since Egyptian times so it’s high time we put together a list for the best spots to pick up pastries in Ōtautahi.
8 Places to Elevate Your Dining Experience
When was the last time you treated yourself to a slow dinner with friends and family or visited a restaurant that is a little bit special? We think it's about now.
Sweet or Savoury? Scope Our Definitive Guide to Christchurch's Best Scones
The humble scone is synonymous with New Zealand hospitality and a staple of our café culture.
Throw on Your Barbour, Here's 8 Things to Do in Christchurch This Winter
Have those Southerly blasts got you hunkered down? Well, it's time to grab your puffer, we've got some activities to get you out of the house this winter.
Warm Your Winter Soul at the Cosiest Places in Christchurch
These 8 Christchurch Roasters Will Change the Way You Think about Coffee
Sip Your Way Through Our Guide To Kiwi-Made Spirits
Where To Find The Best Architecture in Christchurch
Contemporary, Modernist, Gothic Revival, Renaissance, there’s no shortage of striking architecture to see in Christchurch.
8 Unique Date Ideas in Christchurch
Whether you've just met on Hinge or been together longer than The Rolling Stones, here are a few ideas for date night that isn't dinner and a movie.
Top Plant-Based Brunches in Christchurch
Plant-based brunches are settling into the Christchurch food scene, and we couldn’t be more excited to branch out and enjoy.
8 Fried Chicken Alternatives in Christchurch
Vegetarians rejoice - we’ve found the best fried chicken alternatives in Christchurch, so you can enjoy the finger-lickin’ goodness sans cluck. No chicken, no problem.
6 Unique Activities to Try in Christchurch
Go Plastic-Free With These 10 NZ Homeware Brands
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite online resources throughout New Zealand to help you towards plastic-free bliss.
How to Spend the Perfect Night Out in Christchurch CBD
Here's your guide to the Christchurch CBD after dark.
Dine Al Fresco at the Best Outdoor Restaurant Spots in Christchurch
Whether you’re looking to settle in for an evening of people watching or prefer to enjoy your long black in al fresco solitude, keep scrolling for where to find outdoor dining in Christchurch
Back Local These Holidays with Our Christchurch Shopping and Gifting Guide
Shopping local is a treat with so many offerings around Christchurch. Make a day of it and revel in the diverse range of shops, price points, and offerings, all while supporting the spirit of Ōtautahi.
6 of the Best Plant-Based Eateries in Christchurch
Reply ‘STAB ME’ to Confirm
The Neatest Campgrounds in Canterbury
48 Hours Christchurch
The Modern Mess
11 Walks to Do in Canterbury and Where to Reward Yourself After
Now’s the time to get out and explore all Canterbury has to offer, both outdoors and in the towns that make this region so special.
Explore New Zealand's most beautiful street
A stroll down colourful, pedestrianised New Regent Street in Christchurch will instantly transport you to a bygone era.
Low and Slow from Christchurch to Tokyo
A Dram with Whisky Galore's Stella Fraser Milne
Trading the Corporate Life for Biang Biang Noodles
A Road Trip Guide to Akaroa
7 Places Every Brunch Enthusiast Needs to Tick off in Christchurch
Brunch enthusiasts, rejoice! Neat Places has compiled your weekend hit-list for the best brunch in Christchurch. From the caffeine hit to the perfectly poached eggs, you'll find somewhere just right for that next weekend brunch outing.
Unstoppable: Andy and Mia
Cool Hangs - Indigo & Provisions
Step inside the historic Boys’ High building in central Christchurch and you’ll find your way upstairs to Indigo & Provisions, a stunning retail space. Focussed on quality, the space has a great brand story for the curated fashion and homeware items that adorn the shelves. We caught up with owner/operator Dominic Ellett to hear more about the brand, his ethos, and his inspiration for the store.
SALT District
Mountain Biking is the New Golf
City North
West End
Sydenham
Where to Go For A Gin Cocktail in Christchurch This February
Brunch in the 'Burbs with the Best Neighbourhood Cafés in Christchurch
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of your local neighbourhood café where familiar faces greet you from day to day and your regular order can be placed with a mere nod and a smile.
Dose up on Goodness, Here's 5 Places to Sink a Green Smoothie in Christchurch
Healthy, filling, nutritious, energising, the green smoothie is one craving not to feel guilty over.
Drool Your Way Through Christchurch's Finger-lickin' Fried Chicken Dishes
We've scoured Christchurch to find the best places to get your hands on the finger-lickin' fried chicken.
Pantries at the ready. Here's our Guide to Shopping without a supermarket
Hospitality Hero
Christchurch Cafés Open on a Sunday to Stave off Your Work Week Blues
Five of the best: where to fill your own beer
Bring your own bottle? How about filling your own bottle - of delicious, fresh craft beer, that is.
Lunch Lady
Sharing is caring. The best places for shared plates
Whoever first coined the phrase “sharing is caring” was clearly a good person to head out to dinner with.
Live the Digital Nomad Life with 11 Christchurch Cafés That Have Free Wifi
A necessity in homes, workplaces and public spaces – but wifi connections in cafés, bars and restaurants can feel few and far between.
High Street
Amberley and Waipara
Port Lyttelton
Sweet & Savage
Roses to Riches
A Decade of Making It Raw
Make It Raw founder, Julia Brown, chats to us about making her delicious raw creations, balancing motherhood and what’s next for the family-run business.
A Guide to New Zealand's Coffee Roasters
Not all coffee is created equal, so in our guide to New Zealand’s coffee roasters, we pay homage to those roasting, brewing, and serving it the best. You’ll find micro-roasters rubbing shoulders with the country’s biggest producers.
12 Hours Christchurch
The best things to see, eat, and do in Christchurch