Christchurch's first container bar to open after the earthquake, this watering hole turns into a club as the night unfolds. Lounge on one of the couches, relax by the fire or in the heated courtyard while you sip on a cocktail served in a jam jar or a beer that arrives at your table in a mini crate.

Lunch, dinner, cocktails, wine or beer... Dux Central offers it all in four distinct venues. Crew Bar is inspired by a classic London pub and serves more than 180 types of beer, and the Emerald Room highlights the founders’ passion for wine. Guests can also check out a full menu of food at Upper Dux, but on a warm summer night you can’t not go to the stunning outdoor two-level courtyard, which is is fully covered and heated. There's also a glamorous speakeasy-style bar, Poplar Social Club.

Promoting "cold beer, hot food, good times," this lively 19th century shipping-themed bar features an open kitchen and high ceilings. The house specialty here is meatballs, and guests can match the type of meatballs they want (beef, lamb, chicken, vegetarian) with a sauce (Italian, Mexican and so on) and the accompaniment (spaghetti, burritos, rolls). Other pub fare is available too.

A great all round party destination, Club 604 is a casual venue (it's best to leave your suit and high heels at home) that features two indoor bars, a large garden bar and a dance floor for the movers and shakers. The front bar has gaming machines. The venue hosts DJs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday who play music to suit all tastes.

Although fairly new on the scene, Cotton Club is well on the way to becoming one of Christchurch's most popular party venues. Named after one of New York City's most iconic 1920s bars, the Cotton Club encompasses a cocktail lounge, booth seating and an open plan dance area. Check out the venue's Facebook page for their line up of local and international DJs.

Famous for being a fixture on the city's gay scene for the past 30 years, Cruz has now reopened in a new location. The 80s themed dance club combines a modern sound system with classic disco lighting for maximum effect, and has a balcony overlooking the lively Victoria Street.

Set in a former tannery factory, Blue Smoke stages regular gigs by local, New Zealand and international artists. The European-style venue features wooden floors and dark oak panelling, as well as the option of either perching at the bar or sinking into one of the venue's comfy sofas. Cassels and Son's craft beer is on tap, and those feeling peckish can feast on American-inspired bar fare.

Housed in a revamped warehouse, Darkroom features vintage furniture and moody lighting (hence the name). The bar plays host to free live music events every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and can get quite crowded. Serving a huge selection of drinks – including craft beers - and some limited but tasty food options, this gem definitely has the right recipe for a good night out.

A part of the Cook'n with Gas restaurant, this quaint garden bar hosts regular live music gigs. The casual venue, which is open from Thursday to Sunday, makes a lovely setting for a couple of beers or wines complemented by a meal from the adjoining restaurant.