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Lyttelton
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.
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.
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
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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