Shirley Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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.
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.
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.
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.
Activities
Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
Christchurch: Orana Wildlife Park Admission
Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip
Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch
Our pick of the best Shirley Hotel Deals
Garden Hotel Christchurch
"The room did need some maintenance - light in the bathroom did not go, their was no soap in the dispenser in the shower, jug went intermittently and the heater in smaller bedroom did not work. There were washing machines onsite - was $6 a load"
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
"Smaller rooms but everything you need. Great breakfast. Amazing location. Super staff."
Reviewed on 18 May 2026
Bealey Quarter
"The staff were courteous. The loo was blocked, the bed was blood soiled (not noted till waking in the morning) and the walls in the bathroom rotten. The light was not sufficient for anything other than ambiance. Drinking water to be sourced from same area as human waste. Lovely shower. The fridge ..."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
"The staff were wonderful, the food was excellent, the staff was fantastic, the only real thing lacking was amenities. Everything was a charge with few complimentary items, and at the price point it’s at felt a little crazy. But overall it was a great hotel and the chef staff upstairs were 10/10"
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
LyLo Christchurch
"for a one night stay waiting to depart or upon arrival its good pod were fairly clean bathroom clean kitchen clean"
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
Hotel Give
"All good apart from noisy people above us apparently bouncing a ball for quite a while! Also as usual, the wifi is too weak to do much and need to link to phone. Lovely staff, very comfy bed great location"
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Shirley
Saint Albans
Saint Albans is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Papanui Road and Bealey Avenue while in the area.
Linwood
You'll enjoy the parks and shopping in Linwood. You might want to make time for a stop at Eastgate Mall or Wilding Park Tennis Center.
Merivale
Travellers come to Merivale for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Merivale Mall and Papanui Road while you're in town.
Christchurch City Centre
Christchurch City Centre is a destination visitors seek out for its abundant dining options, interesting museums and colourful gardens. You might want to check out attractions like Christchurch Art Gallery or Bridge of Remembrance while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Papanui
Unique features of Papanui include the shopping and restaurants. Make a stop by Northlands Shopping Centre or Papanui Road while you're exploring the area.
New Brighton
You'll enjoy the beaches and parks in New Brighton. You might want to make time for a stop at Avon Heathcote Estuary or New Brighton Beach.
