14+ Top Hangout Places Near the University of Canterbury

The Canterbury region, which is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Alps, is filled with undulating hills, mountains, and waterways all begging to be explored. With so many noteworthy locations to visit in Christchurch, you can lose yourself in the beauty of nature, animals, mediaeval architecture, and a variety of exciting activities.

No matter if you’re planning to study in New Zealand or are already a student living in the Christchurch area, this blog will help you find some of the top hangout places near the University of Canterbury to help you plan your day out. 

About the University of Canterbury

The University of Canterbury (UC, founded in 1873), New Zealand’s second-oldest higher education institution, is frequently ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide, with a strong reputation for faculty research. 

UC is located on a sprawling 170-acre campus in Christchurch and is ranked =256 in the most recent QS World University Rankings 2024. It has also received 5-star QS recognition for research and teaching quality. 

The University of Canterbury’s five colleges — arts, business, education, law, science, and engineering — currently provide 70 study courses to 14,000 students from over 100 countries, who are mentored by 715 full-time staff and visiting academics from top-ranked universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.

Their globally recognised programmes strive to encourage critical thinking and professional achievement across a wide range of fields, and UC graduates may be found in top employers and graduate schools worldwide. 

Through service learning, internship programs, and New Zealand’s most extensive network of field stations for field science, UC allows you to extend your study outside the classroom and obtain real-world experience.

Top Hangout Places Near the University of Canterbury

Now that you have a brief overview of the university and programs, let’s dig in to find some of the coolest and top hangout places near the University of Canterbury that university students would like to explore.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a huge garden that may be enjoyed comfortably with an information centre, tea kiosk, and all of the required conveniences. It is well-known for its lovely trees and other features, such as rhododendrons and shrub borders, a long herbaceous fence, and an amazing traditional rose garden.

While experiencing nature is the primary focus of the park, one of the most popular Christchurch tourist attractions is the centuries-old trees found in the botanic gardens.

Location: City Centre Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 941 7590

Opened: 1863

Area: 21 hectares (52 acres)

Christchurch Gondola

The Christchurch Gondola, often known as a cable car, is 1,000 metres long and offers panoramic views over Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, the Southern Alps, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Banks Peninsula.

There are numerous entertainment alternatives at the summit station, such as discovering the numerous walking paths and outdoor areas amidst the pure air, learning about the area’s history on the Time Tunnel excursion, and going on a shopping spree at their affordable gift shop.

Location: 10 Bridle Path Road, Heathcote Valley, Christchurch 8022, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 384 0310

Canterbury Museum 

You will learn about New Zealand’s interesting culture and history. Explore the popular Paua Shell House’s walls, which are encircled by unique Maori antiquities and over 1,000 pau shells. Take a trip down Christchurch Street with the vistas of the city’s flourishing times and be transported back in time.

Discover the world’s most important collections from the historic era of Antarctic exploration and discovery. Learn about the freezing continent’s daring explorers and view artefacts from the Museum’s globally significant Antarctic collection.

Address: 66 Gloucester Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 366 5000

Opened: 3 December 1867

Architect: Benjamin Mountfort

Quake City

‘Quake City’ depicts the aftermath of the September 2010 and February 22, 2011 earthquakes, as well as the extraordinary efforts of emergency responders, global rescue crews, hundreds of volunteers who came to help, and the astonishing endurance of the people of Canterbury.

Some of the things that characterised the Canterbury earthquakes, such as the Christ Church Cathedral spire and the clocks from the now-demolished old railway station, are included in the display, making it one of the most stunning sites to see in Christchurch.

Location: 299 Durham Street North, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 365 8375

Avon River

The Avon River, a particular feature of the region, supports a variety of plant and animal life and provides a variety of recreational opportunities. It’s a lovely area to go for a walk and see the repair work that was done following the Christchurch earthquakes.

Listed among the things to see in Christchurch for the picturesque views and the peaceful river that flows by, major developments such as hip cafes and bars, and retail spots serve as a cherry on top.

Location: Christchurch, New Zealand

Air Force Museum of New Zealand

Explore New Zealand’s military aircraft history at the site where it all began, one of the top things to do in Christchurch. Immerse yourself in the stories of the men and women who have contributed to New Zealand’s military aviation route over decades of conflict and peace, and reflect on their selfless service to the country.

Explore the broad selection at your own pace through interactive exhibitions, or join a free, guided behind-the-scenes tour.

Location: 45 Harvard Avenue, Wigram, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand

Phone: 011 2567 5161

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Hagley Park

Since the 1850s, when it was set aside for leisure and pleasure for Christchurch residents, Hagley Park has been known as one of the best locations to visit in Christchurch. The park is perfect for a variety of situations, such as exploring different city bike routes or having a family vacation through the scenic terrain.

There is plenty of space for strolling and riding along the tree-lined pathways. It contains a sports pitch where people can play golf, tennis, croquet and other games.

Location: 14 Riccarton Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 941 8999

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve is a nature preserve and wildlife park. It offers protection of native species such as tuatara, kiwi, tuatara, kea, and gecko duvaucel, in addition to public exhibits of other animal species.

Take a guided Kiwi tour, walk around the reserve, feed the animals, and learn about Maori culture when you visit this location.

Location: 60 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 359 6226

Opened: October 1974

Number of animals: 500

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International Antarctic Center

The International Antarctic Centre, located near Christchurch International Airport, is a major tourist destination in the city. It supports Antarctic research programmes as well as domestic and international tourism.

You can also relax in the Antarctic storm room or go on an all-terrain vehicle trip. Huskies and penguins can also be seen. If you’re still not satisfied, you can enjoy a 4D ice tour on the big screen.

Location: 38 Orchard Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8052, New Zealand

Phone: +64 508 736 4846

Owner: RealNZ

Founded: 28 September 1990

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Riccarton House

Riccarton House and Bush/Ptaringamotu is a rare New Zealand heritage site consisting of two historic buildings surrounded by bright and wide parkland and fine lawns, bordered by the Avon River, and set near huge natural bush woodland with up to 600-year-old kahikatea trees.

House gardens are a peaceful place to spend time. At their leisure, visitors can spend time exploring the house grounds and the surrounding bush.

Location: 16 Kahu Road, Riccarton, Christchurch 8041, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 341 1018

Port Hills

The Port Hills are a group of hills in Canterbury, New Zealand, named by its location between the city of Christchurch and its port at Lyttelton. They are an eroded piece of the Lyttelton volcano, which formed thousands of years ago and is a major Christchurch tourist site.

The Port Hills (Te Poho-o-Tamatea) are well-known for their ecological, geological, and scenic characteristics. Their geological features are also of national and international interest.

Cardboard Cathedral

The Cardboard Cathedral replaces the Christchurch Cathedral, which was severely damaged in the 2011 earthquake. The Cardboard Cathedral, designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, opened to the public in August 2013.

It is comprised of 98 identically sized cardboard tubes and 8 steel shipping containers and is one of Christchurch’s most powerful, earthquake-proof constructions.

Location: 234 Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 366 0046

Materials: cardboard tubes, timber, steel

Architect: Shigeru Ban

Sumner Beach

Sumner Beach is the major beach in the seaside getaway and is a charming area to enjoy a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch. Relax on the damp, sandy beaches and work on your tan, or dive into the shallow waters of Summer Beach.

Discover the iconic Cave Rock or unwind with a cocktail at one of the beachfront pubs or restaurants when you explore the most popular Christchurch tourist sites. On a warm day, you can see walkers, joggers, parents pushing strollers, or people lounging and relaxing on the beach.

Banks Peninsula

The Banks Peninsula, located near Christchurch, New Zealand, is a must-see for its breathtaking views, gorgeous bays, and unique campers. Little River serves as the peninsula’s entry point. There is a hotel/pub, two cafes, a gas station, an art gallery, a craft store, and a small museum in the township. 

It is a location that is frequently overlooked by visitors visiting Akaroa. If you want to go off the beaten path and truly explore, inquire at the craft station, which includes an information centre.

Orana National Park

Orana Wildlife Park provides all wildlife enthusiasts with an exciting adventure. You can feed a stately giraffe on your own, see the gorgeous white rhino, meet New Zealand’s national icon, the Kiwi, or wander through the Lion Reserve.

Orana is well known for its involvement in zoo-based breeding activities for endangered exotic and native animals.

Location: 793 McLeans Island Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8051, New Zealand

Phone: +64 3 359 7109

Notable animals: Ibutho, Fuzu, Mahali, Evelyn, Harris, Pumba, Fataki

Opened: 1976

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Conclusion

On campus, UC students have access to over 150 student-run clubs. UC is a haven for sports aficionados, with exceptional athletic facilities and clubs for students to join. Christchurch is New Zealand’s second-largest city and one of the cheapest places to live. As a significant economic and industrial centre, the city is home to many multinational employers.  

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