Global Major Cities Guide

Large indoor spaces with a variety of retail, dining, and entertainment options.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Shopping Malls in Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand, offers a variety of shopping malls that cater to diverse tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion, local artisan products, or family-friendly entertainment, Christchurch's malls have something for everyone. Below is a detailed guide to the city's most popular shopping malls, including what they offer, how to access them, and nearby attractions.

1. Westfield Riccarton

Overview:

Westfield Riccarton is the largest and most popular shopping mall in Christchurch. It is a one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, attracting both locals and visitors.

Key Features:

Shops: Over 200 stores, including international brands like H&M, Cotton On, and Sephora, as well as New Zealand retailers such as Farmers and Glassons.
Dining: A large food court with a variety of cuisines, including Asian, Mediterranean, and fast food options. There are also sit-down restaurants and cafes.
Entertainment: HOYTS Cinema with recliner seating and the latest movie releases.
Services: Banks, beauty salons, and a post office.

Price Range:

Shopping: Mid-range to high-end. Clothing prices range from NZD 20–200+ depending on the brand.
Dining: Meals in the food court cost around NZD 10–20, while sit-down restaurants range from NZD 20–50 per person.
Movies: Tickets cost approximately NZD 15–20.

Accessibility:

Parking: Free parking for up to 3 hours; additional charges apply for longer stays.
Public Transport: Multiple bus routes stop at Riccarton Road, a short walk from the mall.
Tips: Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.

Nearby Attractions:

Riccarton Bush: A historic native forest reserve and farmers' market, just a 10-minute walk from the mall.
University of Canterbury: A picturesque campus worth exploring, located nearby.

2. The Palms

Overview:

Located in the suburb of Shirley, The Palms is a family-friendly shopping mall with a relaxed atmosphere.

Key Features:

Shops: Around 100 stores, including popular brands like Kmart, Whitcoulls, and Pascoes. It also has specialty stores for gifts, homeware, and electronics.
Dining: A food court with options like sushi, burgers, and pizza, as well as cafes for coffee and light meals.
Entertainment: Reading Cinemas with affordable ticket prices and a kids' play area.
Services: Pharmacies, optometrists, and a gym.

Price Range:

Shopping: Affordable to mid-range. Kmart offers budget-friendly options, while specialty stores may be pricier.
Dining: Food court meals cost around NZD 10–15.
Movies: Tickets are typically NZD 10–15.

Accessibility:

Parking: Free parking available.
Public Transport: Bus routes connect The Palms to the city center and surrounding suburbs.
Tips: Ideal for families with young children due to the play area and family-friendly facilities.

Nearby Attractions:

Bottle Lake Forest Park: A short drive away, this park offers walking and biking trails.
New Brighton Beach: A 15-minute drive to the coast for a relaxing beach experience.

3. Northlands Shopping Centre

Overview:

Northlands is a large suburban mall located in Papanui, offering a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options.

Key Features:

Shops: Over 120 stores, including The Warehouse, Farmers, and Hallenstein Brothers. It also has specialty stores for books, jewelry, and outdoor gear.
Dining: A food court and several cafes and restaurants, including popular chains like Subway and Muffin Break.
Entertainment: HOYTS Cinema and a Timezone arcade for kids and teens.
Services: Medical clinics, hairdressers, and travel agencies.

Price Range:

Shopping: Affordable to mid-range. The Warehouse is known for budget-friendly items.
Dining: Food court meals cost around NZD 10–20.
Movies: Tickets cost approximately NZD 15–20.

Accessibility:

Parking: Free parking available, with plenty of spaces.
Public Transport: Well-connected by bus routes, with a major bus stop at the mall.
Tips: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid congestion in the parking lot.

Nearby Attractions:

Willowbank Wildlife Reserve: A 10-minute drive from the mall, this reserve offers close encounters with native and exotic animals.
Papanui Domain: A nearby park for a quick outdoor break.

4. Eastgate Shopping Centre

Overview:

Eastgate is a smaller mall located in Linwood, catering to the local community with a mix of retail and essential services.

Key Features:

Shops: Includes The Warehouse, Countdown supermarket, and specialty stores for clothing, gifts, and electronics.
Dining: A small food court with affordable options like fish and chips, kebabs, and coffee shops.
Entertainment: A library and occasional community events.
Services: Medical and dental clinics, a gym, and a post office.

Price Range:

Shopping: Budget-friendly to mid-range.
Dining: Meals cost around NZD 10–15.

Accessibility:

Parking: Free parking available.
Public Transport: Bus routes connect Eastgate to the city center and eastern suburbs.
Tips: A good option for quick, convenient shopping.

Nearby Attractions:

Christchurch Gondola: A 15-minute drive to the base station for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
Sumner Beach: A 20-minute drive to a popular beach with cafes and walking tracks.

5. EntX Entertainment Central

Overview:

EntX is a boutique entertainment and dining hub located in the heart of Christchurch. While not a traditional shopping mall, it is a must-visit for food and entertainment lovers.

Key Features:

Shops: Limited retail options, but a focus on dining and entertainment.
Dining: A wide range of eateries offering gourmet burgers, Asian fusion, Italian, and more.
Entertainment: HOYTS Lux Cinema with premium seating and in-theater dining.

Price Range:

Dining: Meals range from NZD 15–40 depending on the restaurant.
Movies: HOYTS Lux tickets cost around NZD 25–35.

Accessibility:

Parking: Paid parking available nearby.
Public Transport: Located in the city center, easily accessible by bus or on foot.
Tips: Perfect for a night out or a rainy day activity.

Nearby Attractions:

Christchurch Art Gallery: A short walk away, showcasing local and international art.
Margaret Mahy Playground: A large, family-friendly playground nearby.

General Tips for Shopping in Christchurch:

Currency: Prices are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Tax-Free Shopping: Tourists can claim GST refunds on certain purchases when leaving New Zealand. Check eligibility before shopping.
Seasonal Sales: Look out for sales during Boxing Day (December 26) and mid-year (June/July).
Weather: Christchurch can be chilly in winter, so dress warmly if visiting outdoor malls or nearby attractions.

Christchurch’s shopping malls offer more than just retail therapy—they are hubs for dining, entertainment, and community events. Whether you're a visitor or a new resident, these malls provide a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the city’s vibrant culture.