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

Tim Williams

Tim Williams

Folk Events
Wunderbar, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

Thursday 5 February 2026

Tim Williams is a veteran of the Australian music industry having played over 400 gigs, written 170 songs and released 30 recordings. Live performance highlights for Tim include supports for The Stone Roses, The... More...

Womens weekly Catchball

Womens weekly Catchball

Softball Events
Lyttelton Recreation Centre, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

From Thursday 5 February 2026 to Thursday 2 April 2026

Requiring fewer skills and less physical demand than volleyball, it is a safer and more welcoming option for women with varying fitness levels. It’s a great game for players whose age, skill level, or life... More...

Quiz Night

Quiz Night

Quiz, Karaoke Events
Civil & Naval, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

From Monday 9 February 2026 to Monday 7 December 2026

Come join us for the weekly ritual on a Monday night at Civil and Naval Bar & Eatery, where you and your crew will negotiate five rounds of amazing trivia with Gee Quiz. Your team's street cred, life smarts and... More...

Groove Council

Groove Council

Alternative, Indie Events
Wunderbar, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

Friday 13 February 2026

When it comes to the dancefloor, Te Whanganui-a-Tara based jazz-house band Groove Council means business. On their agenda is an uninterrupted dose of live jazz-house dance music guaranteed to keep feet moving and... More...

Tephra Joined By Hexxer and Minerva

Tephra Joined By Hexxer and Minerva

Rock Events
Wunderbar, Lyttelton, Christchurch District

Friday 20 February 2026

Tephra are blasting into the new year with a return to the great Wunderbar, bringing hypnotic and mesmerising new tunes. Bringing the energy with crushing riffs and angelic vocals are Otautahi's finest alt-rockers,... More...

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Aldaha Luxury Accommodation - Bed and Breakfast.

Situated in Christchurch in the Canterbury region, Aldaha Luxury Accommodation features accommodation with free WiFi...

Napier Shore Excursion: Wine, Beer & Art Deco TourNapier Shore Excursion: Wine, Beer & Art Deco Tour - Ports of Call Tour - Christchurch. Starting from $135.00 per person.

An excursion that explores Napier's art deco architecture and rich history. Included is a visit to two famous wineries...

 

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