FOLLOW US

World Travel Guide > Guides > Oceania > New Zealand > Christchurch

Local time Christchurch

Currency

NZ$

Christchurch Nightlife

Despite the demolition of many pre-quake favourites, Christchurch still features a good selection of bars; in fact, many new establishments have sprung up since the disaster. Christchurch is also the arts capital of New Zealand's South Island. See Christchurch City Council’s website (www.ccc.govt.nz) for events listings, and buy tickets from Ticketek (Tel: +64 4 384 3840; www.ticketek.co.nz).

Bars in Christchurch

Cargo Bar

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.

Address: , 359 Lincoln Road, Christchurch,
Telephone: +64 3 338 9107.
Website: http://www.cargobar.co.nz

Dux Central

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.

Address: , 10 Poplar Street, Christchurch,
Telephone: +64 3 366 6919.
Website: http://www.duxcentral.co.nz

Morrell and Co

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.

Address: , 280 Lincoln Road, Christchurch,
Telephone: +64 3 423 1440.

Clubs in Christchurch

Club 604

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.

Address: Woolston, 604 Ferry Road, Christchurch,
Telephone: +64 3 384 1500.

Cotton Club

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.

Address: , 32 Allen Street, Christchurch,
Telephone: +64 3 421 7638.
Website: http://www.facebook.com/TheCottonClubNZ

Cruz Nightclub

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.

Address: , 77 Victoria Street, Christchurch,
Telephone: +64 3 379 2910.
Website: http://www.cruz.co.nz

Live music in Christchurch

Blue Smoke

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.

Address: Woolston, The Tannery, 3 Garlands Road, Christchurch,
Telephone: +64 3 389 5544.
Website: http://thetannery.co.nz/stores/food-beverage-entertainment/blue-smoke/

Darkroom

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.

Address: , 336 St Asaph Street, Christchurch,
Telephone: +64 3 974 2425.
Website: http://darkroom.bar

The Astro Lounge

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.

Address: , 23 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch,
Telephone: +64 3 377 9166.
Website: http://www.cooknwithgas.co.nz/the-astro-lounge/

Classical music in Christchurch

Dance in Christchurch

Theatres in Christchurch

Music and Dance in Christchurch

Culture in Christchurch

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

Book Accommodation

Featured Hotels

SEE MORE

Eliza’s Manor Boutique Hotel

With beautiful period features, Eliza's history spans three centuries. This grade II historic, wooden house was built in 1861 by one of the city's founding fathers, before being restored and turned into a hotel in 1981. It's within easy walking distance of the gardens, museum, and New Regent Street while just around the corner is Victoria Street with its plethora of restaurants and bars. The hotel's delicious cooked breakfast will set you up for your day of exploring the city.

The Equestrian Hotel

If city centres are not your cup of tea, try staying in suburban Hornby, which was largely untouched by the quake. Beside State Highway 1, this hotel is also ideal if you are heading further south. Rooms range from executive to budget, and are set on lovely grounds with a music bar, lots of outdoor seating, and a miniature railway model. The hotel is also located near a large shopping centre.

Merivale Manor

Set in an elegantly restored historic home dating from 1882 and within walking distance of the city centre, Merivale Manor is a perfect home away from home. Choose between studio or suite accommodation with luxurious amenities such as jetted tubs, full kitchens and laundry facilities. Breakfast is included in the rate.

Haka Lodge

Around a 5-minute drive from the heart of Christchurch, and with a bus stop on its doorstep, Haka Lodge is a good budget choice for those wishing to stay close to the centre of the action. The lodge offers a range of accommodation options, from shared rooms and hotel standard private rooms to a two-bedroom apartment unit. Haka also features a communal kitchen, free unlimited Wi-Fi, a chill out area and a verdant garden.

Rendezvous

This hotel is set opposite the fabulous and historical 1930s New Regent Street, with its array of Spanish-Mission style buildings. Standard rooms have queen-size beds and en-suites, and most feature uninterrupted views of the city or the Southern Alps. Those wishing to venture a little further afield should note that the tram leaves from New Regent Street, running alongside the Rendezvous on its way to the Square.

Novotel Christchurch

Novotel Christchurch is a landmark hotel located in the heart of the Square, beside the once-iconic Christ Church Cathedral. Facilities include a bar, restaurant, fitness centre and guest laundry. It's only moments to the main city attractions, including the Shipping Container Mall, the historical New Regent Street and Hagley Park.