McLeans Island Travel Guide
Christchurch
Visit McLeans Island
Popular places to visit
Sumner Beach
The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.
Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
New Brighton Beach
Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.
Hagley Park
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.
University of Canterbury
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Canterbury during your trip to Christchurch. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Cathedral Square
You can learn about the history of Christchurch when you stop by Cathedral Square. Visit the cathedral in this walkable area or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do
Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Arthur's Pass Full-Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train and Lunch
Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo
Top hotels in McLeans Island
Harewood Lodge
Friendly staff and clea room. Good place for the price.
Reviewed on 20 Mar 2026
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Really great stay… very central, so great location! Lovely happy hour menu and service was great!
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026
Bealey Quarter
Staff were friendly, even got offered a bbq sausage when we arrived! Restaurant on site which was great. Walked to a concert we were attending which was only about 10-15mins away so very handy!
Reviewed on 20 Mar 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
Yes
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026
LyLo Christchurch
Airport shuttle would have been useful
Reviewed on 19 Mar 2026
Wyndham Garden Christchurch Kilmore Street
Nice location, lots of restaurants within walking distance.
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around McLeans Island
Christchurch Airport
While Christchurch Airport may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like International Antarctic Centre and Harewood Golf Club.
Burnside
Travellers come to Burnside for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre and Nunweek Park while you're in town.
Ilam
Ilam is well liked for its bars. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Christchurch area, you might plan a trip to Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre or Bush Inn Centre.
Hornby
The museums and shopping are a few reasons travellers visit Hornby. Though there aren't many top sights in the neighbourhood, you can visit Air Force Museum of New Zealand and Riccarton Park, a few notable attractions nearby.
Upper Riccarton
Upper Riccarton is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Riccarton Road and Bush Inn Centre.
Papanui
Unique features of Papanui include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Northlands Shopping Centre or Papanui Road while you're exploring the area.
