New Brighton Beach Tours and Activities

New Brighton Beach which includes surf, surfing and a beach
New Brighton Beach featuring general coastal views
New Brighton Beach featuring surf and a sandy beach
New Brighton Beach
New Brighton Beach showing a sandy beach and general coastal views


Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.

New Brighton Beach is a great coastal retreat to visit when holidaying in Christchurch. The beach boasts about 18 kilometres (11 miles) of golden sand, stretching from the mouth of the Waimakariri River to South Spit. Activities at New Brighton Beach range from surfing in rolling waves to wildlife spotting and walking amid untamed landscapes. Find accommodation options, cafés, restaurants and a weekly market at the village adjoining the beach.

The beach is a popular summer destination for Christchurch’s residents. Bathers come to swim in the cool waters of the South Pacific Ocean while surfers make the most of the clean, rolling waves. Beachgoers congregate around New Brighton Pier. Stroll to the end of the pier to enjoy uninterrupted views of the coastline and watch as fishermen wait patiently for a catch.

For a more secluded beach experience, walk in either direction from the pier to discover quiet areas. Enjoy the opportunity to sit unaccompanied amid the lap of nature, take a nap on the soft sand or sit and read a book. Pristine coastal forests and sand dunes frame the beach’s northern reaches. Explore these areas as you follow trails on foot or by bike.

Be sure to visit South Spit, a reserve set on a peninsula at the beach’s southernmost point. Come between August and March for the chance to see seabirds such as dotterels, godwits, gulls and pied stilts. Gaze across the estuary to see Summer Beach and look inland to make out the peaks of New Zealand’s Southern Alps.

In the village of New Brighton, casual dining options, fast-food joints and surf shops line the Brighton Mall commercial zone. On Saturday morning, go to the New Brighton’s Seaside Market, held in the mall’s pedestrian-only section. Dine at food trucks and browse stalls offering fresh produce, handicrafts and quirky fashions, among other items.

New Brighton Beach is just a 20-minute drive from Christchurch’s city centre and easy to reach via public buses or rented bike. Free parking is available on Marine Road, which runs parallel to the beach. In January, hundreds of colourful kites fill the sky for the beach’s annual Kite Day.

Plan a trip to see New Brighton Beach

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Top New Brighton Beach Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Modern 2-Bedroom Oasis, Just Steps from the Beach

Modern 2-Bedroom Oasis, Just Steps from the Beach

Christchurch
Modern 2-Bedroom Oasis, Just Steps from the Beach
South Brighton Holiday Park

South Brighton Holiday Park

2.5 out of 5
59 Halsey Street, Christchurch
South Brighton Holiday Park
Coastal Comfort: Spacious 3BR Getaway in Redcliffs

Coastal Comfort: Spacious 3BR Getaway in Redcliffs

Christchurch
Coastal Comfort: Spacious 3BR Getaway in Redcliffs
Sumner Bay Motel & Apartments

Sumner Bay Motel & Apartments

3.5 out of 5
26 Marriner Street, Sumner, Christchurch
Sumner Bay Motel & Apartments
Cave Rock Guest House

Cave Rock Guest House

3 out of 5
16 Esplanade, Sumner, Christchurch
Cave Rock Guest House
Modern, quiet comfort for two

Modern, quiet comfort for two

Redcliffs
Modern, quiet comfort for two
Hill-side sanctuary - Stunning views

Hill-side sanctuary - Stunning views

Clifton
Hill-side sanctuary - Stunning views
Ocean Views at Rapanui Lodge- 4BR Gem with Parking

Ocean Views at Rapanui Lodge- 4BR Gem with Parking

Christchurch
Ocean Views at Rapanui Lodge- 4BR Gem with Parking
The Ultimate Cecil Wood Stay - Hot Tub, BBQ & Views

The Ultimate Cecil Wood Stay - Hot Tub, BBQ & Views

Christchurch
The Ultimate Cecil Wood Stay - Hot Tub, BBQ & Views
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near New Brighton Beach

New Brighton Beach offers a perfect blend of leisurely strolls along its stunning shoreline and vibrant entertainment options. Enjoy the picturesque views while walking along the beach promenade, and don't miss the local cafes and shops that bring a lively atmosphere to the area. With a range of activities and events, New Brighton Beach is an ideal destination for a relaxing yet engaging vacation experience.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience in New Brighton Beach, check out The Tannery and Eastgate Mall, both located 6.4km away, offering a mix of shopping and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, the Lyttelton Farmers Market, also 6.4km away, showcases local produce and city vibes.

Recreation

At He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments while enjoying serene ocean views—only 4.8km from New Brighton Beach. For some active relaxation, head to Wilding Park Tennis Center, 6.4km away, where you can enjoy a friendly match in a tranquil setting.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Christchurch Gondola, located 4.8km from New Brighton Beach, offering stunning views and family-friendly adventures. For adrenaline seekers, the Christchurch Adventure Park features thrilling ziplines and a ropes course, 11.3km away. Don’t miss the excitement at Woodford Glen Speedway, 17.7km away, for exhilarating motor racing.

Nightlife

The nightlife at New Brighton Beach offers a vibrant mix of culture and entertainment. Catch a show at the Isaac Theatre Royal, just 9.7km away, or enjoy a performance at The Court Theatre, located 11.3km from the beach. Both venues provide a romantic and family-friendly atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near New Brighton Beach

New Brighton Beach offers a delightful mix of attractions for all types of travellers. Explore the stunning beach, vibrant piazza, and picturesque harbour while enjoying cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Whether you're keen on soaking up the sun, engaging with local culture, or simply relaxing by the sea, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained in this charming destination.

  • Sumner Beach: Only 1.6km away from New Brighton Beach, Sumner Beach offers a laid-back coastal vibe. With golden sands and rolling waves, it's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the shore.
  • Lyttelton Harbour: Located about 6.4km from New Brighton, Lyttelton Harbour boasts stunning scenic views. Explore its picturesque landscapes, vibrant marine life, and charming local shops, all while soaking up the beach atmosphere.
  • Te Pae Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre: Situated 9.7km away, this modern venue is designed for conferences and events. Experience a professional setting with state-of-the-art facilities, making it an ideal spot for business or community gatherings.

Best time to go to New Brighton Beach

The best time to visit New Brighton Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around New Brighton Beach falls in January, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around New Brighton Beach falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January62.1°F (16.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February61.5°F (16.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March58.5°F (14.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August45.5°F (7.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September48.0°F (8.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
October51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
December59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for New Brighton Beach

To save money during your visit to New Brighton Beach, plan your trip between June to August when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can secure great savings. Sundays are the cheapest nights to stay, while Wednesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to sort by budget and explore eco-friendly options. Consider combining flights, accommodation, and activities in a package deal for additional discounts. Don't forget to take advantage of free activities like strolling along the beach and enjoying the scenic views.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around New Brighton Beach are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to March and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around New Brighton Beach is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around New Brighton Beach is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around New Brighton Beach is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can sort results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your New Brighton Beach hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.