Governors Bay Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Governors Bay
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.

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.

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.

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.

Riccarton Road
During your visit to Christchurch, you can enjoy retail therapy at Riccarton Road. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Activities

Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch

Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram

Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo

Christchurch: Tram, Punt and Gondola Ride Combo Ticket

International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket

Arthur's Pass Full-Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train
Our pick of the best Governors Bay Hotel Deals

Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Reviewed on 31 Jul. 2025

LyLo Christchurch
Reviewed on 1 Aug. 2025

Novotel Christchurch Airport
Reviewed on 2 Aug. 2025

Fable Christchurch
Reviewed on 29 Jul. 2025

Sudima Christchurch Airport
Reviewed on 31 Jul. 2025

Hotel Give
Reviewed on 30 Jul. 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Governors Bay

Cashmere
You'll enjoy the mountain views and gardens in Cashmere. You might want to make time for a stop at Clearwater Golf Resort or Port Hills.

Lyttelton
You'll enjoy the sandy beaches and museums in Lyttelton. You might want to make time for a stop at Lyttelton Harbour or Lyttelton Farmers Market.

Halswell
Halswell might not have many top sights, but Air Force Museum of New Zealand and Christchurch Adventure Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Sydenham
Sydenham is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like The Colombo and Science Alive.

Woolston
You'll enjoy the restaurants and gardens in Woolston. You might want to make time for a stop at The Tannery or Caddyshack City.

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.
- Lyttelton Harbour
- Hagley Park
- Sumner Beach
- New Brighton Beach
- Te Pae Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Wolfbrook Arena
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens
- Christchurch Gondola
- Westfield Riccarton Mall
- International Antarctic Centre
- Mona Vale
- Riverside Market
- New Regent Street
- Canterbury Museum
- Taylor's Mistake Beach
- Orana Wildlife Park