Most South Island road trips start in Christchurch, and it’s a great place to find your feet before the wild stuff begins. It’s flat, easy to walk, and a lot of the best bits are free. Give it a day or two to shake off the jet lag, stock the van, and go.
Free and cheap things to do
- Re:START and the city centre: Christchurch rebuilt itself after the 2011 earthquakes, and the result is one of the most creative small cities you’ll visit — street art everywhere, the Cardboard Cathedral, the moving 185 Empty Chairs memorial.
- Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park: Huge, green, free. Perfect for a slow morning.
- Christchurch Art Gallery: Free entry, good for a rainy day.
- Climb the Port Hills: The Bridle Path from Lyttelton gives you big harbour views for zero dollars.
- Sumner Beach: An easy escape with a proper surf vibe and the Cave Rock.
Hidden gem
Skip the gondola fee and walk the Crater Rim tracks in the Port Hills instead — same volcanic views, free, and far quieter.
Stocking up
Christchurch is the cheapest place on the South Island to load the van with food and gear. Hit a big supermarket here before heading inland, where prices climb and options shrink.
Camping nearby
You can’t just park anywhere — freedom camping in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula is self-contained vehicles only, with a warrant card displayed in the windscreen. Check the Christchurch City Council bylaw and CamperMate for current legal spots, and don’t risk the fines.
Picking up a Campervanz van in Christchurch? We’re local — ask us where to grab supplies and the first good freedom camp on your route.
