Christchurch Airport serves the main city of New Zealand's South Island, approximately 10-12 km from the city center.
It is the most common starting point for exploring the Southern Alps, glaciers, and fjords of the South Island.
How to get to Christchurch International Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to CHC
Parking near Christchurch International Airport
A multi-story parking structure is adjacent to the terminal building.
Rates are in line with New Zealand standards.
How to get to Christchurch from CHC
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Airport transfers you can book in advance
Shuttles and private transfers you can book online, picked from the best rated by travelers.
Car rental at Christchurch International Airport
Major international car rental companies have desks in the arrivals area, widely used for exploring the South Island independently.
Bring your driver's license, passport, and credit card; remember that in New Zealand, driving is on the left.
Hotels near Christchurch International Airport
Christchurch Airport
The Commodore Airport Hotel is 1.5 km from the terminal with a free shuttle available 24 hours a day on request (about 5 minutes); LyLo can be reached on foot from the terminal in 10-12 minutes along a flat pedestrian route.
Best for: Departures before 7 and short layovers, when you want to stay a step from check-in.
- Free Commodore shuttle running even in the early morning hours
- LyLo can be reached on foot from the terminal, useful for those who don't want to wait for a shuttle
- Only Memorial Avenue and the airport warehouses around: for dinner you stay at the hotel
- For an evening in the centre you still need 15-20 minutes by taxi or 30-40 by bus
Recommended hotels
- Commodore Airport Hotel Christchurch At 449 Memorial Avenue, 1.5 km from the terminal with a free shuttle available 24 hours a day on request; indoor pool, tennis court and gym for those with a long layover. View availability
- LyLo Christchurch Airport Hostel-style pod hotel 10-12 minutes' walk from the terminal, on a flat route that also suits suitcases; private pods or beds in shared rooms, designed for those who just want a bed between two flights. View availability
Cathedral Square and the centre
10 km from the airport: taxi 15-20 minutes (about 40 NZD), Metro or Purple Line bus 30-40 minutes (7-8.50 NZD).
Best for: Those who want the post-earthquake rebuilt centre, with Cathedral Square, the tram and the restaurants of New Regent Street within walking distance.
- Cathedral Square, New Regent Street and the historic Christchurch tram within walking distance
- Numerous restaurants and the Casino just minutes' walk from the hotels in the area
- No train to the airport: only bus or taxi remain
- Some buildings around still bear the marks of the post-earthquake rebuilding
Recommended hotels
- Crowne Plaza Christchurch by IHG At 764 Colombo Street, 3 minutes' walk from Cathedral Square; 204 rooms, the largest upscale hotel in the city centre. View availability
- Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square Right on Cathedral Square, 3 minutes' walk from the Isaac Theatre Royal and 6 from the Cashel Street Shopping Area. View availability
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal is modern, rebuilt after the 2011 earthquake that severely impacted the city.
To avoid complications, it's best to arrive 2.5–3 hours early for international flights.
Map of Christchurch International Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. Is Christchurch the gateway to the South Island?
Yes, it is the main air hub of the South Island, convenient for reaching the Southern Alps, the glaciers, and the West Coast.
Q. Has the city recovered from the 2011 earthquake?
Yes, much of the center has been rebuilt with modern architecture, although some areas still bear the marks of that period.
Q. Is it worth getting a Metrocard for the bus?
Yes, if you plan to use public transport during your stay, it significantly reduces the cost compared to paying cash.
Q. Is tipping necessary in New Zealand starting from Christchurch?
No, tipping is not part of New Zealand culture and is never expected, not even in restaurants or organized tours of the South Island: however, it is increasingly appreciated at upscale tourist establishments, where a small discretionary gesture is not out of place.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights
