Learning and exploring in Christchurch

Ōtautahi Christchurch and its surrounding region is home to a myriad of experiences and learning opportunities. There are different accommodations to suit any type of school trip and student need, and there are outdoor experiences as well as cultural and arts focused excursions to be had.

For cultural and arts experiences, schools can choose from several acclaimed galleries and museums in the CBD. Schools can also take a walking tour of the area.

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Several heritage buildings and monuments have survived the 2011 earthquakes, or else are being restored. This gives the city a distinctive centre, where heritage and restoration works are undertaken alongside new, quake-resilient builds.

The city centre is also host to the Avon River and the Botanic Gardens, both of which are significant natural heritage sites that can be explored in relation to the Aotearoa New Zealand Histories curriculum, or linked to topics such as botany or ecology. 

Schools looking for more active excursions can find many suitable activities in Christchurch and its surrounds, which has activities for any season. Teamwork and bonding can often be achieved through school trips or camps, and there are outdoor activities available in all seasons, from skiing to archery to water sports. 

Accommodation available ranges from camp-style lodges with on-site facilities and activities, to more self-sufficient units and backpacker accommodations for schools wanting to take charge of their itinerary. Many providers in the region have experience with school groups and can help tailor programmes to meet the needs of your school group.

Christchurch is also known as the “gateway” to the South Island. Flying into Christchurch can afford opportunities for classes to visit places like Hanmer Springs and the nearby Waiau Gorge. Such abundant natural landscapes provide ample opportunity for aspiring environmentalists, geologists or chemists to do hands-on fieldwork, or even just get children out of their comfort zones and their classrooms.

From the Christchurch experts

Christchurch Attractions can help your school group explore a range of iconic attractions for the ultimate Christchurch experience. Activities include Christchurch Tram, Christchurch Gondola, Punting on the Avon and Botanic Gardens Tour.

Heritage tramcars, informative live commentary about the city’s history and stories, and transport between key sites are all offered by Christchurch Tram.

Christchurch Gondola provides a fantastic sightseeing experience of Christchurch and Canterbury. Students will learn about the region’s history and formation on a Discovery Ride. Walking tracks and catering options are available.

Enjoy the outdoors, see and learn about the river’s wildlife up close and see the plants of the Botanic Gardens with Punting on the Avon. A Botanic Gardens Tour will allow students to see and learn about the Botanic Gardens with a guided tour on board an electric shuttle, with live commentary about the Botanic Gardens’ unique plants and history.

Multiple activities can be completed in one day, with experiences tailored to suit your school group.