Must-Try Food in Christchurch

What’s Christchurch known for?

Christchurch, the garden city of New Zealand, is celebrated not only for its English-inspired gardens, such as the iconic Christchurch Botanic Gardens but also for its heritage architecture, like the historic Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings. It's a city that stands as a testament to resilience and rebirth. 

After bouncing back with vigour after the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, Christchurch now boasts a vibrant arts, culture and food scene. With street art that brings colour to the urban landscape and a burgeoning food scene that will take you on a whole other kind of adventure – this city is a perfect blend of the old and the new.

There’s an abundance of family-friendly things to do in Christchurch, especially for families exploring the city in a campervan hire. From discovering interactive exhibits at the Canterbury Museum to enjoying leisurely picnics in the vast Hagley Park, this blend of natural beauty, history, and innovation makes Christchurch a must-visit destination on your campervan hire New Zealand adventure. 

 

What is the best way to explore Christchurch?

The unparalleled freedom and flexibility offered by a campervan make it the best way to explore Christchurch and its surroundings. Imagine waking up to a different view every day, from the serene beaches to the lush parks, all from the comfort of your home on wheels. A motorhome hire in New Zealand allows you to take control of your itinerary, making impromptu stops to capture breathtaking views or explore hidden gems (including all the great food experiences in Christchurch) scattered throughout the region. Plus, travelling by campervan means you have all the essentials with you – a cozy place to sleep, a kitchen to try your hand at cooking local produce, and the ease of moving from one attraction to another without the need to unpack at every stop. Whether driving through the picturesque Christchurch to Wanaka route or exploring the city's urban charm, a campervan offers a sense of adventure like no other. 

Image: Instagram - @krismartyn

 

Top 10 Must-Try Food Experiences in Christchurch

From the innovative dishes that challenge the palate to the comforting classics that feel like home, Christchurch's food scene will not disappoint. In the upcoming sections, we'll highlight the top 10 restaurants in Christchurch worth checking out on your upcoming campervan hire New Zealand road trip. 

 

1. Estelle

Nestled in the vibrant Southwark Street, Estelle has quickly become a favourite for its elegant design and simple yet striking cuisine. One standout dish is their smoked fish, pickled currants and rhubarb with Grizzly sourdough. Or, if you are feeling something sweet, the Tiramisu pottles and Roman creme bun are divine. For those exploring Christchurch in their campervan, finding a spot to park isn’t a hassle. The nearby St Asaph Street Car Park offers ample space, making it a convenient option to park your campervan and enjoy a memorable meal at this restaurant in Christchurch.  

 

2. Kokomo

Kokomo is a hidden gem in the heart of Christchurch, offering a laid-back vibe and a menu that celebrates the best of local produce with a unique Asian twist. Specialising in breakfast and brunch, Kokomo has become a go-to spot. Their menu changes frequently, so this one is bound to keep you on your toes. Here, you could expect anything from a quirky “Prawn Benedict” with a herb hollandaise to “Tiramasu Croisant” on their seasonal menu. Best of all, parking your campervan is easy, with the Hereford Street Car Park just a short walk away, ensuring that your campervan is conveniently parked as you enjoy your meal.

 

3. Central Deli Sandwiches

Central Deli Sandwiches brings a taste of New York to Christchurch with its selection of artisan sandwiches. Each sandwich is crafted with care, featuring house-made ingredients and local produce. The “NYC Ruben” is a standout, boasting thick cuts of pastrami and sauerkraut on freshly baked sourdough bread. Central Deli's dedication to quality and flavour, coupled with a cozy, inviting atmosphere, makes it a must-visit restaurant in Christchurch. For campervan travellers, the Manchester Street Car Park offers nearby parking options, making it a breeze to stop by for a quick, delicious lunch.

 

4. Muy Muy

Muy Muy is Christchurch's answer to vibrant Latin American cuisine, offering a colourful and lively dining experience with traditional tapas. The restaurant's signature dish, “Ceviche,” is a refreshing mix of fresh local fish, lime, cilantro, and chilli, reflecting the authentic flavours of Latin America. Muy Muy's lively atmosphere, paired with its dedication to authentic, fresh dishes, makes it a standout dining experience and one of the best traditional food experiences in Christchurch. Campervan travellers can find parking at the Lichfield Street Car Park, just a stone's throw away from this restaurant in Christchurch.

 

5. Bar Franco

Bar Franco brings a slice of European flair to Christchurch, specialising in natural aperitifs and Italian-inspired small plates. The “Veal Milanese” is a highlight served with apple remoulade on a bed of cannellini bean purėe drizzled in mustard. Bar Franco's intimate setting and focus on high-quality, simple ingredients make it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening. Plus, the Hereford Street Car Park provides nearby parking, making it easy for those travelling by campervan to visit.

 

6. Tiny Door

Tiny Door is New Zealand’s first hole-in-the-wall food experience in Christchurch. This unique little food joint's tagline is “You don’t need to know the best restaurants in Christchurch; you just need to know the location of one Tiny Door.” With multiple different pop-ups each day, this restaurant in Christchurch is bound to suprise and delight. Best of all, Tiny Door's ever-changing menu ensures a unique dining experience with each visit. Campervan parking is conveniently located at the Hereford Street Car Park, offering easy access to this food experience in Christchurch.

7. Church Pub

Church Pub is not your average restaurant in Christchurch.  If you were to combine the warmth of a traditional pub with the sophistication of fine dining, you would have something that resembles this unique food experience in Christchurch. Their “Chargrilled Serlion”, paired with classic fried, a garden salad and garlic butter, is a testament to their culinary excellence. What makes Church Pub special is its ability to blend a cozy pub atmosphere with gourmet food, making it a favourite for a dinner out in Christchurch. The Durham Street South Car Park is the closest option for campervan parking, providing easy access to this restaurant in Christchurch.

 

8. Little High Eatery

Little High Eatery is a modern marketplace offering a diverse range of cuisines under one roof – in fact, there i nothing quite like it. With eight different kitchens at this restaurant in Christchurch, there's something for everyone, from Asian fusion to American burgers. The standout dish is the “Wood-Fired Pizza” from BASE Woodfired Pizza, known for its crispy crust and inventive toppings. Or, if you are in the mood for some Asian cuisine, the “Steamed Garlic Prawn Dumplings” at EightGrains are a hit. 

Little High's communal dining setup and variety make it a perfect spot for families and groups and easily one of the most unique food experiences in Christchurch. For those exploring in a campervan, the Madras Street Car Park is just around the corner, making it a convenient dining destination in the heart of Christchurch.

 

9. Burger Burger

Burger Burger in Christchurch is a lively restaurant in Christchurch that puts an innovative twist on the classic burger experience. A standout on their menu is the “Beef and Cheese Burger,” a juicy, grass-fed beef patty topped with melted cheese, aged pickles, and Burger Burger's secret sauce, all nestled between a soft brioche bun. 

What sets Burger Burger apart is its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and offering a range of burgers that cater to every palate, including vegetarian and vegan options. For campervan travellers, the West End Car Park is just a short walk away, offering convenient access to this burger haven. This is easily one of the best, no-fuss family restaurants in Christchurch for an effortless, crowd-pleasing dinner. 

 

10. Castro’s

Castro’s brings a taste of Cuba to the heart of Christchurch, offering a unique food experience in Christchurch with its vibrant decor and authentic Cuban cuisine. The “Pulpo A La Gallega” is a dish that stands out, featuring octopus served with potato and smoked pimenton – oh, and of course, there is the iconic Paella. 

Castro’s speciality lies in its ability to transport diners to Havana with its lively music, colourful interiors, and an extensive menu of Cuban classics. The restaurant is also known for its fruity sangria, which is a sure way to enhance this authentic Cuban experience. For those on a campervan adventure, parking is available at the Hereford Street Car Park, providing easy access to this Cuban gem.

 

Where to stay in Christchurch

When exploring Christchurch, staying in a campervan offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace and the added benefit of being able to stay at cost-effective holiday parks. Christchurch has several parks that cater to campervan travellers, offering a comfortable and convenient home away from home.

Image: Instagram - @scotthowes

 

North South Holiday Park

North South Holiday Park provides an ideal base in a campervan for those exploring the best attractions and restaurants in Christchurch. Located just a short drive from the city centre, it offers a tranquil retreat with a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. Facilities on-site include an outdoor swimming pool, children's play area, and BBQ facilities, making it perfect for families. The park offers powered sites for campervans, ensuring you have everything you need to recharge after a day of adventure. Its close proximity to both the city and the airport makes North South Holiday Park a convenient choice for the start or end of a New Zealand road trip.

 

South Brighton Holiday Park

South Brighton Holiday Park is nestled by the beach, offering a serene setting for your Christchurch stay. It’s an excellent choice for campervan travellers seeking a peaceful beachside escape while being within easy reach of the city’s attractions and the best restaurants in Christchurch. The park features powered sites, kitchen facilities, and a laundry room, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free stay. With direct access to the beach, you can enjoy stunning sunrises and leisurely walks along the shore, making it a memorable base for your Christchurch adventure.

 

Time to plan your Christchurch adventure?

Christchurch is a city of resilience, beauty, and culinary excellence – offering plenty for travellers to explore on a campervan hire road trip. Ready to start planning your Christchurch journey? Book your Britz motorhome online today and pick it up from any Britz branch before starting your adventure through this vibrant city. Need some help planning your road trip adventure? Check out the Britz blog for tips for planning a campervan hire road trip, itineraries and more.