Ilam
Christchurch
Popular places to visit
University of Canterbury
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Canterbury during your trip to Christchurch. Visit the shops and charming cafes in this walkable area.
Sumner Beach
The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.
Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
New Brighton Beach
Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.
Hagley Park
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.
Cathedral Square
You can learn about the history of Christchurch when you stop by Cathedral Square. Visit the cathedral in this walkable area or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do
Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket
Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
Christchurch to Arthur's Pass Tours + TranzAlpine Train & Lunch
TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip
Top hotels in Ilam
Bealey Quarter
Excellent place to stay
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Handy location, central city so easy walk to bars and restaurants and transport hubs
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Sudima Christchurch Airport
offered us a free drink! even though we checked in at midnight, the staff were super nice
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
We arrived very late after significant flighy delays. The man chevking us in gave us a midday checkout which was much appreciated. Unfortunately he must have not updated the system as we were woken by staff knocking on the door, then a phone call, then our access card disabled.
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
LyLo Christchurch
Super-convenient to be able to extend your checkout time to 1pm for just $NZ10. A 10 minute walk to CHC
Reviewed on 14 Apr 2026
Wyndham Garden Christchurch Kilmore Street
Nothing special, does the job. Rooms are barely soundproof though. You need to request housekeeping fyi
Reviewed on 13 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Ilam
Burnside
Travellers come to Burnside for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre and Nunweek Park while you're in town.
Fendalton
Travellers like the historical sites in Fendalton, and Mona Vale is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.
Wigram
Parks and entertainment venues are just a few things travellers like about Wigram. A stop by Air Force Museum of New Zealand is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.
Merivale
Travellers come to Merivale for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Merivale Mall and Papanui Road while you're in town.
Christchurch Airport
While Christchurch Airport may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like International Antarctic Centre and Harewood Golf Club.
