Christchurch City Self Guided Walking Tour with an APP

Overview

Explore Christchurch on foot and uncover a city reborn from the 2011 earthquakes into a vibrant mix of heritage and innovation. From the quirky Cardboard Cathedral to Gothic Revival gems, from buzzing New Regent Street to tranquil riverside terraces, every stop reveals resilience, creativity, and charm. Wander through playful spaces like the Margaret Mahy Playground, pause at moving memorials like the Bridge of Remembrance, and soak up art, culture, and flavors at Riverside Market. Along the way you’ll see stunning street art, heritage façades, modern marvels like Te Pae Convention Centre, and lush sanctuaries like the Botanic Gardens. This tour isn’t just about sights it’s a journey through history, recovery, and the unique spirit of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Itinerary

1. Cardboard Cathedral

   An architectural marvel built from giant cardboard tubes, this vibrant cathedral shines with stained glass light—a true symbol of Christchurch’s resilience and creativity.

   · 15 min· Admission included

2. The Margaret Mahy Family Playground

   Step into a giant wonderland of ziplines, trampolines, water play, and storytelling magic—a playful tribute to New Zealand’s beloved children’s author.

   · 10 min

3. New Regent Street

   Stroll through pastel Spanish-style façades, buzzing cafés, and heritage trams—this charming 1930s precinct blends history, color, and café culture perfectly.

   · 5 min

4. Chalice Sculpture

   Neil Dawson’s towering Chalice gleams with native leaf patterns, standing proudly in Cathedral Square as a symbol of renewal and modern artistry.

   · 5 min

5. Cathedral Square

   From Godley’s statue to the life-sized chessboard, this bustling square is Christchurch’s historic heart layered with stories, memorials, and resilience.

   · 10 min

6. Its flowing tile façade mirrors Canterbury’s braided rivers and mountains—a striking, modern hub that honors both Ngāi Tahu heritage and renewal.

   · 10 min

7. Victoria Square

   A peaceful garden of statues, fountains, and flowers where Queen Victoria and Captain Cook stand watch history, culture, and calm meet here.

   · 5 min

8. Cross this ornate bridge with its cream balustrades, floral clock nearby, and the Avon flowing beneath—a picture-perfect farewell to Victoria Square.

   · 5 min

9. This lively strip buzzes with bars, eateries, and the city casino—showing off Christchurch’s playful side before leading you to heritage treasures.

   · 5 min

10. Built for Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, this Gothic beauty froze at 12:51 during the 2011 quake a moving blend of heritage, tragedy, and resilience.

    · 10 min

11. Housed in a 1934 heritage building, Miro blends riverside views, soulful food, and historic charm perfect for a relaxed, flavorsome pause.

    · 10 min

12. A Queen Anne beauty with ornate terracotta panels once civic offices, later a cultural hub this heritage treasure tells Christchurch’s civic story.

    · 10 min

13. Avon River

    Step down stone terraces to the Avon’s edge—ducks, laughter, and rippling water create a calm pause in the city’s vibrant flow.

    · 10 min

14. A grand stone arch honoring Canterbury’s soldiers walk through and feel history, sacrifice, and beauty united over the Avon River.

    · 10 min

15. Gothic Revival landmarks housing treasures of culture, history, and Antarctic exploration this complex is Christchurch’s cultural soul.

    · 15 min

16. A 1929 gift of beauty—gargoyles, carvings, and inscriptions crown this Gothic-style clock tower, lovingly restored after quakes, standing tall as a heritage gem.

    · 5 min

17. End your tour in a lush sanctuary—statues, fountains, and global trees weave a peaceful escape, Christchurch’s green heart since 1863.

    · 20 min

How to use your ticket

Once you book a tour, you’ll get a seperate email from the supplier with instructions. To access the tour Download the Trippy Tour Guide APP (while in good wifi/signal) and use your Tour Code to access your tours. Keep your mobile fully charged & use headphones to listen to the audio for best experince To begin the tour, go to the Starting Point and launch the app. The Audio Plays Automatically at each stop. Stick to the tour route for the best experience. Please note that this is a self guided tour & no one will meet you at the starting point. If you face any issues contact us at - https://www.trippytourguide.com/Help

Meeting and end point

What to know before you go

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travelers

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

Reviews

Product code: 417475P89

Activity offered by Trippy Tour Guide via Viator.