Christchurch attractions.
Christchurch is the go-to hub of the South Island, it is the largest city in the South Island situated on the East Coast with a backdrop of the Port Hills.
Chardonnay Motor Lodge is positioned in the North of Christchurch, and is perfectly placed to nearby famous leisure attractions.
We’re right next door to the Groynes, offering walks, lakes, picnic areas and playgrounds. We’re also neighbouring the much-loved Rosebank Winery and Restaurant, which includes a restaurant, wedding, function and conference facilities, and is open Wednesday to Sunday, and Friday and Saturday nights,.
In the winter season, take advantage of the great ski fields only one to two hours drive away. Locals love Mount Hut, Ohau snow fields and Porters.
Closeby activities.
Day Trips.
Akaroa
Cafés
Harbour cruises
Swim with dolphins
Hanmer Springs
Bush walks
Mountain biking
Bungy jumping
Thermal pools
Kaikoura
Whale watching
3 day itinerary.
Day 1
Morning:
Option 1 – Antarctic Centre – See the Little Blue Penguins. Experience the cold of the Antarctic. Allow 2-3 hours.
Option 2- Walk or cycle around The Groynes, 98 hectares of reserve.
Afternoon:
Option 1 – Visit Willowbank Wildlife park.. See the Kiwis, perhaps stay for dinner and “Ko Tane” Maori performance.
Option 2 – Pop down to the supermarket, get some supplies, relax back at Chardonnay and have a wine in the sun.
Evening:
Option 1 – Dinner at Styx and Stone – generous portions, great service, value for money. Less than 5 minutes drive from the Motel.
Option 2 – Tutto Bene Italian experience in Merivale. Lots of noise and activity, great food.
Day 2
Morning:
Option 1 – Take a day trip to Hanmer Springs – home of the Thermal hot pools and Spa. (1½ hrs drive north). Stop on the way at Pukeko Junction for a delicious morning tea. Stop at Brew Moon Cafe on the way back for a home brewed beer. Hanmer is a lovely Alpine Village with walks, arts’n’crafts, cafes and restaurants.
Option 2- Take a day trip over the hills to Akaroa – a beautiful little “French” village on Banks Peninsula. Full of quaint little houses, great arts’n’crafts and several pubs and restaurants. Take a trip with Wildlife Cruises and swim with the dolphins!
Evening:
Option 1 – After a busy day why not cook up a storm on the BBQ at Chardonnay while sipping on 1 or 2 of same?
Day 3
Morning:
Option 1 – Shopping at Northlands Mall – one of the largest in ChCh.
Option 2- Drive to the Port Hills, over to Diamond Harbour and back through the Lyttelton Tunnel. Winding roads with great views. Allow 2-3 hours.
Afternoon:
Option 1 – Orana Park Wildlife Reserve.. A great experience of all types of wildlife, large and small. See the big cats being fed and the cheetahs showing off their speed. Allow 2-3 hours.
Option 2 – Afternoon Tea at “Sweethearts at Berryfields”. A gorgeous old fashioned cafe and berry farm. Delicious food in picturesque surroundings.
Evening:
Option 1 – Stop at Merivale and choose from several restaurants and bars. (Thai, Italian & European). Aikmans and No4 both have outdoor fires.
Option 2 – Need a rest? Grab a ready to eat meal from reception. Pop it in the microwave. Eat and relax!