City in Canterbury, New Zealand
Getting around Christchurch
How to get around Christchurch
The flat center is easy to walk or cycle. Metro buses cover suburbs; the heritage tram loop is for sightseeing. A car is best for Banks Peninsula and South Island routes.
Ways to get around Christchurch
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Metro buses | About NZ$2–4 with a Metrocard or contactless | Interchange at Bus Interchange on Lichfield Street |
| Christchurch Tramway | About NZ$30–40 day pass | Heritage tram loop; sightseeing, not commuting |
| TranzAlpine train | From about NZ$220–300 one-way | Scenic crossing to Greymouth; book ahead |
| Uber or taxi | About NZ$14–24 for 5 km | Plenty of drivers; reliable at night |
Ride-hailing apps in Christchurch
A 5 km ride costs about NZ$14–24 ($7.9–13.5).
- Taxis are metered. The airport has a rank; book ahead for early flights.
Arriving in Christchurch
Christchurch Airport (CHC)
Metro Airport bus about NZ$2–5 to the center, 30–45 min; Uber or taxi about NZ$35–55, 15–25 min.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Not typical; hire e-bikes. Mopeds need a motorcycle licence.
- Driving: on the left. Drive up to 12 months on a valid foreign licence, with an IDP or approved translation if it isn't English.
- Onward travel in New Zealand: Most travelers rent a car or campervan. InterCity coaches link most towns, scenic trains run Auckland–Wellington and across the South Island, and ferries cross Cook Strait.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Christchurch?
Yes. Apps that work here: Uber, DiDi.
What's the best way to get around Christchurch?
The flat center is easy to walk or cycle. Metro buses cover suburbs; the heritage tram loop is for sightseeing. A car is best for Banks Peninsula and South Island routes.
How do I get from the airport to Christchurch?
Metro Airport bus about NZ$2–5 to the center, 30–45 min; Uber or taxi about NZ$35–55, 15–25 min.
Is Christchurch walkable?
Very walkable.
More about Christchurch
Going to Christchurch solo?
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Sources
- InterCity coaches
- Great Journeys New Zealand (KiwiRail)
- Interislander ferry
- Bluebridge ferry
- Christchurch Airport
- Metro Christchurch (Environment Canterbury)
- ChristchurchNZ
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.