Christchurch guide
🇳🇿 Packing List
What to pack for Christchurch
In March, Christchurch is typically cool, expect showers (10 to 20°C). This list adapts to those conditions; adjust for your exact travel dates.
Christchurch essentials
- Casual everywhere. Sun protection (hat, SPF) year-round on sunny days.
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A warm jacket or fleece
- Layers for cool evenings
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Layered outfits you can add or remove as the day warms
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Insect / mosquito repellent
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type I plugs (same as Australia), 230V — different from North America and Europe.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Spark, Vodafone NZ, 2degrees. Buy at airport.
- Unlicensed taxi or rideshare overcharging — agree the fare before entering or use a metered cab
Trip gear
- Still warm enough for outdoors