Lyttelton - Christchurch New Zealand information, accommodation and hotel booking, NZ tourism, travel, vacation and holiday information.

Lyttelton

Lyttelton harbour

Any day of the week in Lyttelton offers up a slightly offbeat harbour-side character. A tunnel linking Lyttelton to the heart of Christchurch city means a trip to this busy seaport and scenic destination is only a 15-20 minute drive.

A stroll around the town will introduce you to rich maritime history - Lyttelton was the port of call for Canterbury's 'Four Ships' in the mid 1800s, carrying the bulk of Christchurch's first British migrants. There are plenty of references to the town’s colonial heritage character in carefully restored buildings, and more colourful, bohemian approaches – evidence of the local artisan community. A visit to the Lyttelton Timeball Station is worth every step up the hill for the Neo-Gothic architecture, views and the fascinating Victorian-era history of the Timeball keeping Greenwich time.

Lyttelton cafes

The main street and its surrounds provide you with a quirky coffee and artisan culture by day, fringed by steady seaport activity. By night you'll find music or even poetry in a cafe, bar or the Harbour Light venue. The Wunderbar is an iconic destination for its slightly dark and humourous approach to deco chic, and keep an eye out for posters advertising a subculture of theatre, cabaret and gigs, particularly at the Harbour Lights venue.

A trip to Lyttelton on Saturday morning will find the Farmer's Market in the school grounds buzzing with people enjoying music, and selecting from the area's venison and pork products, cheeses, organic fruits and vegetables, free range eggs, great coffee, Belgian chocolate, fudge, fresh bread and pastry vendors. Get down to the docks early for fresh fish off the boat – this is not available year round, so ask a local. In summer it's difficult to go past the General Store's huge icecreams for next-to-nothing...join the queue of locals and visitors waiting for their iconic treat.

Lyttelton marina

Lesser souls fail to appreciate that while one of New Zealand's busiest commercial seaports Lyttelton and Diamond Harbour have plenty to offer in the way of scenic enjoyment and gentle recreation. A short ferry ride across to Governor's Bay for a stroll will take you to pleasant heritage and swimming spots, and cruise options are available for the harbour, across to Quail Island and beyond to Akaroa.


Featured Lyttelton Events

Phantastic Ferniture - Dare to Fern in Love

Phantastic Ferniture - Dare to Fern in Love

Alternative, Indie Events
The Loons, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

Saturday 13 December 2025

This summer, join Phantastic Ferniture on their Dare to Fern in Love Tour of Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand. In celebration of the release of their first new material since their 2018 critically acclaimed debut... More...

Isaac Chambers & Dub Princess 2025 Tour (Christchurch)

Isaac Chambers & Dub Princess 2025 Tour (Christchurch)

Dub, Roots Events
The Loons, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

Friday 19 December 2025

Isaac Chambers & Dub Princess are coming back to the Loons Lyttelton! - Support acts from Deep Fried Dub & Byte Size After a sold-out Tour in 2023, Isaac Chambers and Dub Princess return to Aotearoa New... More...

BMS Presents: Otautahi Originals

BMS Presents: Otautahi Originals

Drum & Bass Events
The Loons, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

From Friday 9 January 2026 to Saturday 10 January 2026

Badman Sound welcomes you to Loons Lytellton to embrace in this night showcasing Otautahi Underground local Drum and Bass producers featuring; INDECISIVE SINGR CASPIAN ROHLLER kicking the year of with a bang you... More...

Marlin's Dreaming

Marlin's Dreaming

Alternative, Indie Events
The Loons, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

Thursday 15 January 2026

A year and some change since touring HIRL, Marlin’s Dreaming will again bless Aotearoa’s main city centres for a short summer stint this January 2026. Marlin’s Dreaming has long been associated with... More...

The Bats celebrating 'Corner Coming Up'

The Bats celebrating 'Corner Coming Up'

Rock Events
The Loons, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

Saturday 21 March 2026

Fresh from a triumphant, room-rammed set at The Other’s Way festival, Aotearoa indie legends The Bats are heading out on the road in 2026 to finally deliver the live accompaniment to their much-loved 2025 album... More...

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Jarrow Place - Homestay.

Set just 6 km from Rugby League Park, Jarrow Place features accommodation in Christchurch with access to a shared...

7-Day South Island Photography Tour from Queenstown to Nelson7-Day South Island Photography Tour from Queenstown to Nelson - Photography Tour - Christchurch. Starting from $4495.00 per person.

Join top New Zealand photographers Richard Young and Shaun Barnett on this exceptional 7-day photography tour of the...

 

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