Forecast not looking too flash during your stay in Christchurch? Not to worry! Our city has so much to offer, whatever the weather. While there’s plenty to do while the sun is shining, Christchurch has indoor activities galore for those rainy days. Whether you prefer fast-paced fun, or slowing down to savour the moment, you can spend the day your way. Here are a few of our recommendations for the best rainy day activities in Christchurch.
1. Enjoy a Movie in Style
For a memorable movie experience, try out one of Christchurch’s premier cinemas. Silky Otter is the newest option on the scene, opening its doors in 2021. The sleek, modern vibe, world-class visuals, immersive surround sound, and luxury leather seating will help transport you to another world. There is also a full menu with onsite chefs, so you can get meals, snacks, and drinks delivered directly to your seat! What more could you ask for?
Another great option is HOYTS EntX, located right in the city centre. Home to some of the largest screens in Christchurch, with powered recliners in all cinemas, you just need to sit back and relax! Feeling fancy? Try out the HOYTS LUX experience, which includes premium dining options, fine wine, and the best seat in the house!
2. Explore a Local Art Gallery
Get in touch with your creative side as you wander through one of the cities local galleries. The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū is undoubtedly the most iconic. With its flowing glass and metal exterior, there’s no other building quite like it. Whenever you visit, you’ll find an eclectic mix of exhibitions, including everything from classic pieces to modern art.
Another landmark arts space is The Arts Centre, Te Matatiki Toi Ora. The heritage architecture will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time. Once inside, you’ll find a diverse range of independent art galleries reflecting the creative expression of Christchurch’s local people. There are also plenty of other interesting discoveries to be made, including museums, regular events, retailers, eateries, and more. With its history dating back to 1877, The Arts Centre is really where Christchurch’s past and future comes together.
3. Win It All at the Arcade
Up for a bit of competition? All in the name of good fun of course! You’re in for hours of good times at one of Christchurch’s state-of-the-art arcade options. Timezone has multiple locations all over the city, offering arcade games, laser tag, bowling lanes, epic prizes and more.
Archie Brothers is another awesome arcade spot, offering good old-fashioned retro entertainment with plenty of personality. Their options also include bowling and arcade games, as well as mini golf, karaoke and heaps more. Have you got what it takes to win it all?
4. Test Your Wits in an Escape Room
Christchurch has plenty of top notch escape rooms, perfect for a rainy day adventure. CodeBreakers has all sorts of unique and intriguing experiences to choose from, including a heist, a time machine, and even complete darkness! They’ve got options for 2-8 people, and there’s even a double room where you can split the group and go head to head.
Escape Artists is another great place to duck out of the wet weather. They have seven awesome escape rooms to choose from, featuring everything from pirates to AI. Having been around since 2015, they have over 1000 five star reviews, so you know you’re in for a good time. Can you solve all the puzzles, crack all the codes, and escape within 60 minutes? There’s only one way to find out!
5. Warm Up with a Hot Chocolate
If you’re wanting to get really cosy on a Christchurch rainy day, why not treat yourself to a decadent hot chocolate? A great place to try is She Chocolaterie at Riverside Market. Their hot chocolates are nothing short of the real thing, made with quality Belgian chocolate. There are even a few different flavours to choose from! If you’re left wanting a little more, grab something from their selection of award-winning chocolate goodies to take home. They’re too good to turn down!
While we’re on the subject, we also have to mention Theobroma. It’s essentially a café with one important twist: they specialise in chocolate! Their hot chocolates are iconic, served with a flame warmer that keeps your drink nice and hot. There’s no rush to finish it before it goes cold, so take your time and savour every drop! You can also choose between a milk, white, or dark hot chocolate. Not an easy decision!
As you can see, wet weather doesn’t need to dampen your spirits when you’re in Christchurch. With no shortage of awesome rainy day activities, there’s no excuse for boredom! Even the few recommendations we’ve provided are only scratching the surface. If the forecast isn’t what you hoped for, just see it as an opportunity to try something you might not have otherwise! Sometimes even rainy days can end up being a big highlight.
