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Getting Around Christchurch, New Zealand

Globetrotter

29 May 2023 - 4 min read

Christchurch is one of the largest cities on New Zealand’s South Island. The city is famous for its natural scenery and island, such a great option to spend your summer. This city also offers many transportation options to get around.

One of the easiest ways to get here is by plane. The international airport offers international flights and domestic flights. Those already in New Zealand can use planes or ferries to get here.

Public Transport Payment in Christchurch

When using public transportation in Christchurch, it is important to know how to pay for your trips. You can pay with cash, but fares are higher for cash payments. It is recommended to use the Metrocard, a commonly used card-based payment system in Christchurch.

The Metrocard is a special card for paying for buses, metros, and other public transport in Christchurch. You can get this card at the supermarket or the nearest bus station. You can buy one at supermarkets or bus stations for around NZD 20-30.

Using a Metrocard can save you up to NZD10 per trip. You can also top up your card online at Metro Info.

Transportations in Christchurch

You can choose from at least ten transports to take you to explore the city of Christchurch.

1. High-Frequency Bus

Information: Christchurch has a high-frequency bus for inner-city travel. This bus, often called the "red bus," goes to many famous places in Christchurch.

Route: This bus has seven routes available and operates daily.

Fares: Bus fares range from around NZD 5 to NZD 10 per person.

Tips: Check the bust schedule and make sure to get on and off at the right bus stops.

2. Suburban Link Bus

Information: The Christchurch suburban link is a bus service that is exclusively dedicated to serving the suburbs of Christchurch. If you are interested in exploring the suburbs, this is the bus to choose.

Route: This service has ten bus routes, each with a two- or three-digit code.

Fares: Fares may vary. For short routes, it costs around NZD 20 to NZD 30.

Tips: To avoid getting lost, check the bus code and route on the Metro website. Bring small bills for payment and remember to check the bus schedule.

3. City Connector Bus

Information: The City Connector Bus is a connecting bus from the city center to the suburbs. You can use this bus to explore the area outside the city or transfer to other cities.

Route: There are 15 routes, each with a two-digit number.

Fares: Bus tickets cost around NZD 20 to NZD 30 per trip.

Tips: Ask the driver about the route to avoid getting lost.

4. Tram

Information: The tram service has been in operation since 1905 and continues to run to this day. Trams in this city only travel in one direction, from the city center to the suburbs. With a tram, you can enjoy various scenery along the way.

Fares: Tram fares range from NZD 10 to NZD 15.

Tips: To enjoy your tram ride, wait at the tram stop, decide where you want to go beforehand and make sure to get off at the right stop.

5. Metro

Information: Metro is a public transit that operates daily for almost 24 hours. The metro route in Christchurch goes around the city center to the suburbs and also to other transportation hubs.

Fares: Metro fares range from around NZD 5 to NZD 10 per person.

Tips: Make sure to get to the correct bus stop and pay when you leave. If you pay with cash, please prepare the exact amount needed.

6. Taxi

Information: Taxis are a convenient and efficient means of transportation from the airport to the city center, as well as various tourist attractions.

Fares: The cost of a taxi ride from the airport to the city center typically ranges from NZD 40 to NZD 65. For trips within the city, fares are calculated based on distance, with an approximate rate of NZD 5 per kilometer.

Tips: To get an estimate of taxi fares, you can use the Taxi Calculator.

7. Ferry

Information: Christchurch offers ferries for sea transport which provides you with a unique way to explore the city. The city's ferry routes run from the suburb of Lyttelton to Christchurch's Diamond Harbour.

Fares: The prices of the fares vary depending on the destination. However, a round trip generally costs between NZD 50 and NZD 100.

Tips: To continue your trip from the port, take the Metro with route 155 or 28.

8. Gondola

Information: Gondolas or cable cars run through Heathcote Valley, providing breathtaking views of Christchurch from above. Exploring the city can easily be done in 10-20 minutes.

Fares: The price for a gondola ride is typically around NZD 10 per person.

Tips: Please ensure that you are comfortable with heights and gondolas, as the ride will take you to high elevations.

9. Bike

Information: Renting a bike is an excellent way to explore a new city. It's fun, provides a unique perspective of the city, and allows you to see more places and things to do.

Fares: The cost of bike rentals range from NZD 20 to NZD 50 per day.

Tips: For your convenience, consider renting bikes near your hotel accommodation. You can also book in advance here.

10. Green Cabs

Information: Green cabs are a common form of rickshaw in New Zealand that can be used for short distances or to navigate tourist attractions.

Fares: The price of green cabs is around NZD 10 to NZD 30, depending on the distance traveled.

Tips: To avoid unexpected costs, ask for the fare upfront. Prices can vary depending on the distance traveled.

Well, that's the list of transportation in Christchurch that you can use. What are you waiting for? Get the Traveloka app right now and enjoy the excitement of a vacation with family and friends!

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