Governors Bay Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Governors Bay
Popular places to visit

Sumner Beach
The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.

Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.

Hagley Park
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.

New Brighton Beach
Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.

Cathedral Square
You can learn about the history of Christchurch when you stop by Cathedral Square. Visit the cathedral in this walkable area or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Riccarton Road
During your visit to Christchurch, you can enjoy retail therapy at Riccarton Road. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Activities

From Christchurch: Arthur's Pass Guided Day Trip with Lunch

From Christchurch: Arthur's Pass and Tranzalpine Day Tour

Mount Cook Day tour from Christchurch to Queenstown

Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram

Arthur's Pass Full-Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train
Our pick of the best Governors Bay Hotel Deals

Reviewed on 14 Apr. 2025

Reviewed on 14 Apr. 2025

Reviewed on 14 Apr. 2025

Reviewed on 14 Apr. 2025

Reviewed on 14 Apr. 2025

Reviewed on 15 Apr. 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Governors Bay

Cashmere
You'll enjoy the mountain views and gardens in Cashmere. You might want to make time for a stop at Port Hills or Clearwater Golf Resort.

Lyttelton
You'll enjoy the sandy beaches and museums in Lyttelton. You might want to make time for a stop at Lyttelton Harbour or Lyttelton Farmers Market.

Halswell
Halswell might not have many top sights, but Air Force Museum of New Zealand and Christchurch Adventure Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Sydenham
Sydenham is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like The Colombo and Science Alive.

Addington
Unique features of Addington include the theatres and live music. Make a stop by Orangetheory Stadium or Addington Raceway while you're exploring the area.

Sumner
If you're spending some time in Sumner, Sumner Beach and Cave Rock are top sights worth seeing.
- Sumner Beach
- Lyttelton Harbour
- Hagley Park
- New Brighton Beach
- Te Pae Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Wolfbrook Arena
- Christchurch Gondola
- Westfield Riccarton Mall
- International Antarctic Centre
- Mona Vale
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens
- New Regent Street
- Taylor's Mistake Beach
- Riverside Market
- Orana Wildlife Park
- Canterbury Museum
- Air Force Museum of New Zealand