Christchurch Airport (CHC) Guide to Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport (IATA code: CHC) is New Zealand's main airport for the city of Christchurch. Positioned in the residential neighborhood of Harewood, 12 kilometers northwest of the city center. In terms of annual passengers and aircraft movements, it is among the three busiest airports in New Zealand, alongside Auckland and Wellington.

Transfer Services at Christchurch Airport

Passengers flying into Christchurch Airport have a wide range of options for ground transportation. Airport Bus provides affordable, direct transfers to various city locations via designated buses and shuttles. Those who would instead not use public transit can use taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Ola.

If you want to take your trip at your own pace, renting a car is the way. Several convenient car rental services close to the airport can facilitate this. If you are in the mood for some exercise and exploration, you can rent bicycles from stores in the area. They can plan to rent bicycles to get around Christchurch.

Rental Car Services at Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport offers convenient access to rental cars, making it simple to travel around New Zealand's South Island. The terminal's car rental counters can be found in the Arrivals Hall.

Visitors have their pick of compact cars, midsize sedans, SUVs, and vans in the extensive fleet. There is a vehicle out there that will suit your needs, whether you're on a tight budget or want to treat yourself.

Car rentals make getting around the region more convenient and allow you to see sights and attractions that aren't in the typical tourist hotspots. The city has a wide variety of sights and picnic areas to enjoy with loved ones.

Please check our available rental vehicles on this website.

Taxi Services at Christchurch Airport

Taxis at Christchurch Airport are a convenient and comfortable way to get to and from the airport. Taxis can be summoned from the domestic and international terminals' Arrivals areas.

Taxi riders have various vehicles from which to choose, including sedans, vans, light trucks, and station wagons. The drivers will get you where you need to go in safety and comfort, and they'll even give you tips on what to see and do.

The average fare for a taxi ride within central Christchurch is $35 to $50, though this can range from $35 to $70, depending on the location. See more information about taxis at Christchurch Airport.

Train Services at Christchurch Airport

When you land at Christchurch Airport in New Zealand, you can't take the train anywhere. Travelers are urged to seek alternatives to the airport shuttle, including taxis, buses, and rental cars.

Getting from the airport to downtown is a breeze, as there is no shortage of taxis and their rates are affordable. It takes about 15 minutes to get there. Buses stop outside the main gate and frequently leave for all points in and around Christchurch.

For more information about taxis and buses, visit their respective pages.

Bus Services at Christchurch Airport

The airport is easily accessible from central Christchurch via the city's Metro Bus system. A bus departs from the International Departures area's north side (exit through Door 9). More information about buses to and from Christchurch Airport.

Tickets can be purchased from the driver. Please find out about Metro's rates and services by calling +64 (3) 366 8855 or their website at https://www.metroinfo.co.nz.

Hotel Shuttle Services at Christchurch Airport

In Christchurch, a dependable airport shuttle service is available to guests of any of the city's hotels. You can count on us to get you where you need to go quickly, affordably, and safely at any hour of the day or night.

Outside the International Terminal, you'll find the Super Shuttle terminal (Exit through door 7). Some courtesy shuttles stop at Door 8, but most passengers use Door 1.

Please visit our hotel page for more information.

Rideshare Services at Christchurch Airport

You can get dropped off or picked up at the airport by an Uber, Ola, or Zoomy driver. Behind the Express Park building, rideshares can be picked up outside the terminal. To reach your final destination, your driver can drop you off at either the Rideshare Drop-off Zone or The Loop.

It would help if you communicated with the service provider to determine how much this will cost.

Parking Services at Christchurch Airport

Parking at Christchurch Airport is easy, cheap, and convenient for passengers. Because there are both long-term and short-term options, vacationers can pick the best option.

The airport provides several parking options, including covered garages, valet service, and open and covered self-parking lots. All of these services are monitored by security cameras around the clock so that you can relax while you're away from your car.

If you need to learn more about this service, please visit our parking page.

Other Services at Christchurch Airport

Other passenger services and amenities at Christchurch Airport include the Airport Express shuttle, which provides affordable transportation between the airport and other areas of Christchurch. The airport also offers a range of food outlets and shopping options, including duty-free shopping for international passengers.

ATMs and car rental services onsite to make traveling in and out of Christchurch convenient and easy. Several lounge areas and facilities are located throughout the airport for travelers who would like to relax before or after their flight.

Finally, free Wi-Fi is available across the terminal building so travelers can stay connected at the airport.

Disabled Passengers at Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport provides services and facilities to ensure that disabled passengers have smooth and comfortable journeys. The airport has accessible toilets, ramps, lowered counters, and lifts in the terminal building.

The airport can also assist with special needs, including wheelchair assistance and help with boarding flights. At the car parks, there are designated bays for people with disabilities and access pathways leading into the terminal building.

There is also an intercom system located at all entry points, which can be used by any passenger who may require assistance getting around the airport.

Wi-Fi at Christchurch Airport

Wi-Fi at Christchurch Airport is available to all passengers and visitors. Whether waiting for your flight or looking to pass the time before a meeting, Christchurch Airport provides travelers free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal.

Once connected, users will be directed through an easy signup process requiring their name and email address. After that, you can enjoy seamless internet browsing from any area within Christchurch Airport's premises, including check-in counters, departure gates, lounges, and more.

Baggage Claim at Christchurch Airport

Baggage claim at Christchurch Airport is accessible to passengers by stairs or one of two elevators. After collecting your bags, you must undergo a Customs inspection before exiting the airport. All passengers must be aware of New Zealand's bio-security laws and regulations regarding food products, plants, and animals brought into the country from overseas.

All checked baggage must be declared on arrival for customs clearance purposes and may be subject to inspection upon exit from New Zealand. In addition, any item of a specified value may also be declared when entering New Zealand. Otherwise, it could lead to delays or fines when departing the country later.

Please check New Zealand customs regulations to ensure you have the latest information.

Information Desk at Christchurch Airport

The information desk at Christchurch Airport is a great place to start your journey in New Zealand. The airport's friendly and knowledgeable team can provide visitors with information on flights, local transportation options, attractions, accommodations, and more.

They also offer free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal building so that you can stay connected while waiting for your flight. Additionally, they have an array of shops selling items such as souvenirs, books, and snacks that you can grab before heading off on your trip.

Suppose you're looking for helpful advice or need some last-minute items before setting off. In that case, Christchurch Airport's Information Desk is there to help make sure your journey is smooth from the very beginning.

Smoking at Christchurch Airport

Smoking at Christchurch Airport is restricted to designated smoking areas. This ensures that all passengers and staff have a safe, comfortable, and smoke-free environment while traveling or working at the airport. These designated smoking areas are clearly marked within the terminal and the airside concourse.

All passengers must adhere to signage instructions when using these areas, which include not disposing of cigarette butts in any other part of the airport apart from ashtrays provided in these designated smoking areas.

As an extra precautionary measure for safety reasons, Christchurch Airport prohibits e-cigarettes and all other tobacco products such as cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco.

Please note that the country has some of the strictest tobacco use regulations in the world. It is advisable to check out the updated regulation concerning this.

Lost and Found Section at Christchurch Airport

When travelers lose something, they can go to the Lost and Found section of Christchurch Airport, where they may be able to find their lost item. The airport staff will do everything in their power to try and reunite people with what was lost. They also display a board of found items so travelers can quickly check if theirs is listed there.

Restrooms at Christchurch Airport

Restrooms at the airport are designed to make travelers feel comfortable and at ease. Cleanliness is a priority, with all surfaces sanitized regularly. There are separate male and female restrooms with private stalls for each gender.

The restrooms feature touchless fixtures such as toilets and sinks, motion-activated soap dispensers, and paper towel dispensers that reduce the spread of germs. Automatic air fresheners also help keep the space smelling clean and pleasant.

Handicap-accessible facilities are available in both the men's and women's restroom areas to ensure everyone can use them comfortably. Christchurch Airport staff regularly inspects these public spaces to ensure they remain safe and hygienic for all visitors.

Nursing Mothers Station at Christchurch Airport

The nursing mothers' station at Christchurch Airport is an excellent example of how airports provide services to their passengers. The station provides comfortable seating and private space for breastfeeding mothers, access to electrical outlets, and a medical-grade refrigerator for storing expressed breast milk.

Additionally, the area is outfitted with supportive signage that includes instructions on how to use the equipment provided. This type of amenity helps nursing moms feel more comfortable while traveling through hectic airport terminals and helps ensure that both mother and baby are safe during their travels.

It also has lactation support groups, informational booklets about breastfeeding basics, plus other resources related to nursing mothers' needs when they're away from home.

ATMs at Christchurch Airport

ATMs at Christchurch Airport are located near the main terminal on both levels. The ATMs are conveniently positioned in high-traffic areas, such as near check-in counters and next to boarding gates.

These machines are ideal for withdrawing foreign currency or making deposits if you need cash quickly. All major credit cards are accepted at Christchurch Airport ATMs, including Visa and MasterCard.

Currency Exchange at Christchurch Airport

Currency exchange at Christchurch Airport is easy and convenient. The airport has an international currency exchange service in the departure lounge, allowing travelers to quickly convert currencies with competitive exchange rates. The service is also available 24 hours a day, so it's great for that early morning or late-night flights.

Exchange services offer a range of different currencies. There are even additional services, such as traveler's checks and money transfers, that can be done from here too. It makes it incredibly simple to get hold of your cash before you fly.

Food and Beverages at Christchurch Airport

Food and beverages at Christchurch Airport are a great way to start or end your journey. The airport provides a selection of restaurants, bars, and cafes to suit all tastes. Whether you're looking for something quick on the go or want to sit down and enjoy some delicious food, there are plenty of options at Christchurch Airport.

From traditional fish & chips and burgers to Japanese ramen and vegetarian specialties—there is no shortage of choices for hungry travelers. Many takeaway options are also available if you don't have time for a full meal before catching your flight.

Shopping at Christchurch Airport

Shopping at Christchurch Airport is a great way to spend some time before your flight. With over 30 retail outlets across domestic and international terminals, you'll find plenty of options for last-minute gifts or souvenirs.

There is something for everyone at Christchurch Airport, from fashion clothing to convenience stores. Whether you're looking for an extra pair of headphones or a magazine to read on the plane, the wide selection of shops guarantees you will get everything integral to ensuring a smooth journey.

Many restaurants serve traditional New Zealand cuisine and international favorites such as fish and chips; Indian curries and pizza are all available in the facility.

Pet Relief at Christchurch Airport

These facilities provide comfort for pets while they wait in between flights or during long layovers at Christchurch Airport. This designated pet relief area has bins to dispose of pet waste responsibly.

It also offers convenient care facilities open 24 hours a day and includes dog runs, showers, play areas, and indoor kenneling services. All dogs must be accompanied by an adult when using these facilities. Fees may be collected for these services.

Ticketing Services at Christchurch Airport

Ticketing services at Christchurch Airport are designed to be fast and easy for passengers. The airport has a self-service ticketing kiosk, which allows customers to quickly check in and print out their boarding passes.

Passengers can also choose to use the online booking system to select their desired flight times and destinations and manage their bookings from any device.

For those traveling with more than two pieces of luggage or who require assistance due to age or disability, there is an assistance desk available at all times. If necessary, customers may request additional services, such as priority boarding during check-in.

It also offers helpful advice about traveling through the airport on its website, and the staff is always willing to help should you need it.

History of Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport opened to the public in 1940. In 1950, it was designated as New Zealand's first international airport. By annual passengers and aircraft movements, it is the third busiest airport in New Zealand, behind only Auckland and Wellington.

There are only two airports in New Zealand, Christchurch, and Auckland, capable of regularly accommodating the likes of the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380.

The airport has two parallel runways, the length of which is 3,288 meters and is aligned with the north-easterly and south-westerly prevailing winds, and the shorter of which is 1,741 meters.

A third grass runway is available for use by general aviation. It runs parallel to the main runway at the airport.

About Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch is the largest city on New Zealand's South Island and the regional capital of the Canterbury District. Christchurch can be found on the South Island's east coast, on Pegasus Bay to the north of Banks Peninsula. A park runs along the banks of the Avon River, which runs through the city's heart.

Around 389,300 people live within the city's territorial authority, including more extensive and smaller cities, towns, and some rural areas. Another 377,900 people call the metro area home. After Auckland, Christchurch's metropolitan area is New Zealand's second-most populous.

Rangiora and Kaiapoi in Waimakariri District, north of the Waimakariri River, and Rolleston and Lincoln in Selwyn District, south of the Waimakariri River, are two of the notable smaller urban areas in this sub-region.

Sometime between 1000 and 1250, the area's first settlers arrived. Moa was hunted to extinction around 1450, and the resulting destruction of the forest significantly impacted the environment. In the 16th century, the Waitaha were the first iwi to migrate to the area that would become Christchurch.

In 1856, Christchurch was granted city status by Royal Charter, making it the oldest permanent settlement in New Zealand. Christ Church, Oxford, inspired the Canterbury Association when they decided to settle the Canterbury Plains.

The new town was planned in a grid around Cathedral Square. In the 19th century, the city grew thanks to the lack of physical barriers other than the ocean to the east and the port hills to the south quickly. Christchurch has traditionally relied on agriculture as a primary economic driver.

Several technology-based industries have flourished in Christchurch thanks to the early presence of the University of Canterbury and the heritage of the city's academic institutions in partnership with local businesses.

For many different countries, Christchurch serves as a "gateway" to the Antarctic, as it is one of only five cities that can provide access to the continent.

Weather in Christchurch, New Zealand

Partly cloudy skies and mild summers contrast with cold, windy winters and a consistently cool climate in Christchurch. The average annual temperature is around 37 degrees Fahrenheit, rarely dropping below 30 degrees or rising above 81 degrees.

Christchurch enjoys its warmest temperatures between the first weeks of January and March, making it the ideal destination for outdoor activities.

Daily highs in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit are the norm during the warm season, which lasts from December to March. January is the warmest month, with an average temperature range of 70°F to 55°F.

From May until August, the average daily high temperature is below 55°F, making this the cool season. July has the lowest average temperatures, at 37 degrees Fahrenheit and a high of 52 degrees Fahrenheit.

Useful Contact Details in Christchurch, New Zealand

If you're in Christchurch, New Zealand, and need help from the police or medical services, calling 111 is the quickest way to get help. You can ask for an English-speaking operator if needed.

Get in touch. 105 is the number for Police non-emergencies. 111 is the emergency number for Police, Fire, and Ambulance. Call triple one when you need an emergency response from Police, Fire, or Ambulance.

New Zealand National Emergency Numbers: 111

When making a call to 111, try to stay calm and provide as much information as possible about your location, any injuries, and the nature of the emergency. The operator will then connect you with a local police station or ambulance service, depending on your situation.

Hospital

Christchurch Hospital

Address: 2 Riccarton Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 4710

Phone: 03 364 0640

Police Station

Christchurch Central Police Station

Address: 40 Lichfield Street Christchurch Central Christchurch

Phone: 105

Christchurch Airport Contacts

Address: Level 4, Express Park Building, 30 Durey Road, Christchurch, New Zealand

General Phone: +64 3 353 7777

Lost and Found Phone: +64 3 353 7777