Upper Riccarton Travel Guide
Christchurch
Visit Upper Riccarton
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
Chairlift Sightseeing Pass at the Christchurch Adventure Park
Top hotels in Upper Riccarton
Alpine Hotel
Hotel was in a strange location in a strip mall. Very clean once inside. Parking was a bit confusing to figure out. Close enough to airport. Kind of pricy.
Reviewed on 5 Mar 2026
Apollo Motel Christchurch
Nothing exceptional, nor horrible. Staff provided a couple of extra pillows on request. Location was OK.
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Good location, rooms are reasonable sized. The furnishing is a bit old (eg no USB ports for charging) so you need to bring an adapter. Overall good value for money
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Bealey Quarter
Convenient
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
LyLo Christchurch
You can walk to the hostel from the airport in 10 or 15 minutes... shortest if you walk next to the Antarctic Center. The hostel has a very spacious common room/ kitchen with a vast patio and lots of varied seating and lounging opportunities.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
Friendly staff, clean room, great location by the airport
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Upper Riccarton
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.
Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.
Fendalton
Travellers like the historical sites in Fendalton, and Riccarton House is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Wigram
Parks and entertainment venues are just a few things travellers like about Wigram. A stop by Air Force Museum of New Zealand is also recommended if you've got time to explore 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.
Addington
Unique features of Addington include the theatres and live music. Make a stop by Apollo Projects Stadium or Addington Raceway while you're exploring the area.
