Avonhead Travel Guide
Christchurch
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 charming cafes 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
Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Arthur's Pass Full-Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train and Lunch
Christchurch: Orana Wildlife Park Admission
Chairlift Sightseeing Pass at the Christchurch Adventure Park
Top hotels in Avonhead
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Convenient location - good amenities. Compact room. Managed to snaffie free on street parking nearby after 5 or 8.30pm
Reviewed on 22 Feb 2026
Wyndham Garden Christchurch Kilmore Street
God quality hotel close to the CBD
Reviewed on 22 Feb 2026
Bealey Quarter
Stayed twice over the course of our holiday. Spacious clean room, as there were 3 of us the triple room was perfect. Really comfy beds and pillows and the bed linen and towels were good quality. Staff helpful also. Would stay again.
Reviewed on 19 Feb 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
Courteous staff
Reviewed on 21 Feb 2026
LyLo Christchurch
Room was clean but small.
Reviewed on 18 Feb 2026
Quest on Kilmore
Amenities, courteous staff, clean room
Reviewed on 23 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Avonhead
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fendalton
Travellers like the historical sites in Fendalton, and Mona Vale is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.
