Papanui Travel Guide
Christchurch
Popular places to visit
Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
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.
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.
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.
International Antarctic Centre
Take a trip to Antarctica to see the animals that live there and hear tales of the intrepid travellers who risked their lives to explore it.
Things to do
Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo
Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
Christchurch: Orana Wildlife Park Admission
Chairlift Sightseeing Pass at the Christchurch Adventure Park
Top hotels in Papanui
Tasman Holiday Parks - Christchurch
Great place to stay all the amenities you could won’t. Will definitely be back
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
Hotel Elms Christchurch, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Excellent stay, great staff and clean and quiet rooms.
Reviewed on 17 Jan 2026
V Motel
Clean and spacious rooms with all the essentials. Check-in was easy, amenities were convenient, and free on-site parking was a bonus. Highly recommend.
Reviewed on 10 Jan 2026
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Value for money. Friendly staff. Great breakfast. Small internal room fine: travelling alone, short stay, dark/quiet = great sleep. Whole place is very clean. Well serviced.
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
Dinner was amazing!
Reviewed on 19 Jan 2026
LyLo Christchurch
Clean and efficient, great for short stays pre/post flight
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Papanui
Merivale
Travellers come to Merivale for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Merivale Mall and Papanui Road while you're in town.
Saint Albans
Saint Albans is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Papanui Road and Bealey Avenue while in the area.
Burnside
Travellers come to Burnside for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre and Russley Golf Club while you're in town.
Fendalton
Travellers like the historical sites in Fendalton, and Mona Vale is a top attraction you might want to visit.
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 Riccarton Road.
Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.
