Christchurch Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Planning Your Digital Journey

Essential Mobile Applications

MetService NZ
Accurate and up-to-date weather forecasts for New Zealand's changeable weather.
Navigation Apps LIKE Google Maps / apple maps
Guidance for walking, driving, and public transport directions.
MetroInfo
Official app for Christchurch city bus system, with timetables and real-time tracking.
Uber / Ola
Ride-sharing for convenient transportation in the city.
Translation App
Google Translate or equivalent Translation app can assist with specific words or phrases.

Online Planning Resources

ChristchurchNZ
Official tourism site (Christchurchnz.com) with all-inclusive information.
Immigration New Zealand
Official visa and entry Requirements, including NZeTA applications.
Department of Conservation (DOC)
Information on national parks, hiking trails, and hut Bookings.
NZ Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi)
Up-to-date information on Road conditions and traffic advisories.
Tiaki Promise
New Zealand's commitment to sustainable tourism, encouraging care for the Country and culture.

Connecting with New Zealand

Official Travel Info

Visit Immigration New Zealand for visa and guidelines for entry.

Immigration NZ

Road Conditions

Check NZ Transport Agency for driving updates.

NZTA Journeys

Conservation Efforts

Learn about national parks and trails on the DOC website.

DOC Website

Traditional Resources

Guidebooks and Maps

Consider Fodor's Essential New Zealand for regional details.
City maps are available for free at i-SITE Visitor Centres.
Local publications highlight current events and suggestions.
Inquire at i-SITE for any current offers or local insights.

Books on Culture & History

"The Luminaries" by Eleanor Catton provides historical context.
Books on the Christchurch earthquakes offer insights into resilience.
Books on Māori heritage and past deepen understanding.
Local publications worth learning from i-SITE or hotels.

General Travel Hints

Health & Safety

Stay hydrated, especially when active.
Be aware of changeable weather conditions.
Follow safety instructions for all activities.
Carry a basic first-aid kit.

Connectivity

Public Wi-Fi is available in many city areas.
Consider a local prepaid SIM for data.
Keep a power bank billed for devices.
Check roaming charges with your home provider.

Getting Around

Christchurch is a very walkable city center.
Buses are a reliable public transport option.
Cycling is popular with purpose-built cycleways.
Taxis and rideshares offer convenience.

Emergency & Medical Information

Critical Contacts

Emergency Numbers

Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 111 (free from any phone).
Non-Emergency Police: Dial 105 for reporting non-urgent crime.
Healthline (free health advice, 24/7): Dial 0800 611 116.
Main public hospital: Christchurch Hospital.

Medical Locations

Christchurch Hospital: Located at 2 Riccarton Avenue, Christchurch Central.
Numerous medical centers and walk-in clinics are city-wide.
Moorhouse Medical Centre is an example of an urgent care clinic.
Check local listings for the nearest clinic to your location.

Lost Document Steps

Report lost or stolen documents to the New Zealand Police (call 105).
Obtain a police report for documentation.
Reach out to your embassy/consulate for emergency travel documents.
Keep embassy and consulate contact details handy.

Safety Protocols

Natural Event Safety

Earthquakes: If you feel an earthquake, "Drop, Cover, Hold."
Outdoors: Move to an open space away from buildings, power lines, and trees.
Tsunamis: If at the seaside and feeling a strong earthquake, move to the highest ground possible.

Information Sources

Official Warnings: Pay attention to local radio for civil defense instructions.
News Websites: Check reliable news outlets for updates.
Emergency Agencies: Follow NEMA (National Emergency Management Agency) for current instructions.

Financial Considerations

Currency Prep

New Zealand Dollars (NZD) are the local currency.
Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid card issues.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Budgeting Advice

Shop at supermarkets to save on cost of food.
Look for lunch specials and happy hour deals.
Inquire about tourism passes for reduced price entry.

Exploration

Films and Documentaries

Documentaries on Christchurch earthquakes portray the city's resilience.
Explore New Zealand natural history documentaries.
Films demonstrating Kiwi landscapes and culture.
Historical films providing context.
Travelogues about New Zealand journeys.

Music and Art Immersion

Check Out new Zealand artists, especially those from Christchurch.
Listen to contemporary Māori music for cultural connection.
Discover local music genres.
Visit art galleries for local expressions.
Attend live performances for authentic experiences.

Connect & Explore More

Online Forums

TripAdvisor, Reddit's r/newzealand and r/christchurch communities have local tips and advice.

Language Learning

Duolingo and other apps offer basic Te Reo Māori phrases for interacting with the culture.

Visual Stories

Explore documentaries and films about New Zealand's unique history and scenery.

Stay Prepared

Familiarize yourself with all steps for emergencies and contacts before your trip for safety.

Digital & Safety Practices

Digital Readiness & Safety Awareness

Digital Readiness

Offline Maps
Download maps for offline use on your phone.
Connectivity
Consider a local SIM card upon arrival for consistent internet.
Cloud Backups
Back up important documents and photos to a cloud service.

Safety Awareness

Health Resources
Know the Healthline number for non-emergency medical advice.
Document Copies
Carry electronic and hard copies of all documents.
Tiaki Promise
Embrace New Zealand''s pledge to protecting its environment and culture.

Connecting with New Zealand

Official Travel Info

Visit Immigration New Zealand for visa and entry rules.

Immigration NZ

Road Conditions

Check NZ Transport Agency for the road updates.

NZTA Journeys

Conservation Efforts

Learn about national parks and trails on the DOC website.

DOC Website

Financial Considerations

Currency Prep

New Zealand Dollars (NZD) are the local currency.
Let your bank know when you're traveling to avoid card issues.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.

Budgeting Advice

Shop at supermarkets to save on food costs.
Look for lunch specials and happy hour deals.
Walk or cycle for free transport within the city.
Inquire about tourism passes for cheaper entry to attractions.

Regional Connections & Combinations

Adventure & Outdoors

Queenstown and Wanaka for adrenaline sports and alpine scenery.
Fiordland National Park (Piopiotahi or Doubtful Sound) for striking fiords.
South Island West Coast for glaciers plus wild beauty.
Abel Tasman Park For golden beaches and coastal walks.

Culture, History & Food

Dunedin for its strong Scottish heritage and Victorian-style buildings.
Rotorua (on the North Island) for a deep dive into Māori culture.
Marlborough region (South Island) for world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc wines.
Hawke's Bay (North Island) for its Art Deco architecture and diverse food scene.

Your Adventure Awaits

Christchurch is an ideal gateway for exploring the entire South Island and beyond.

← Previous

Christchurch Travel Hacks

← Back to Canterbury

Next →

Christchurch Travel Checklist

Next Up: Christchurch Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Continue to Christchurch Travel Checklist