A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cairns vs. Christchurch for Nightlife, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Cairns or Christchurch?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Cairns or Christchurch? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cairns

Cairns is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and tropical city. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a adventure-filled, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cairns and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cairns or Christchurch?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cairns than Christchurch. While Christchurch is larger than Cairns, Cairns has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cairns is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Christchurch is known for its museums & sights and impressive beauty. Cairns is more touristy than Christchurch and is popular for its stunning beaches, nearby rainforests, and easy access to the world's largest reef system. It is also home to the Great Barrier Reef. Christchurch is popular for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

How is Cairns different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Christchurch and Cairns. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cairns or Christchurch?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Christchurch offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

Cairns offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time exploring nature and the outdoors, but there are some interesting cultural sights around town as well. Make sure you check out the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park as well as the Cairns Aquarium.

Is the Food Better in Cairns or Christchurch? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Cairns and Christchurch.

Cairns has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Waterfront dining with a view is what makes the restaurant scene special. Seafood is everywhere and you can enjoy the catch of the day while you relax on a beachfront terrace. There are also international restaurants that have everything from Spanish tapas to Japanese noodle bowls.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Christchurch makes for a great culinary experience. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Cairns is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Cairns is a must-see party destination. For such as small city, the nightlife scene is incredibly vibrant, particularly during the peak tourist months. Backpackers are at the heart of the action, with many bars and clubs filling up each night with a young crowd. There are dance clubs, all night parties, cocktail bars, and beach side venues that are sure to offer a good time.

Many people head to Christchurch for the nightlife scene. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Resorts?

Cairns is well known for its resorts. However, Christchurch is not a resort destination.

Cairns is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are many beautiful resorts that offer access to the beach and have impressive pools. There are family-friendly resorts, romantic resorts, and even some budget-friendly options.

Christchurch is not a resort destination.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cairns is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cairns a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. It's access to the Great Barrier Reef make this one of the world's top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations. The undersea world is filled with colorful coral, diverse tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and a truly magical setting.

Christchurch is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Cairns is terrific for the beache. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cairns. Near town you'll find stunningly beautiful beaches that range from hubs of activity to quiet coves. Cairns Esplanade Lagoon is the closest beach to the city center and it has a sandy beach and plenty of amenities. For a quieter setting, head north to Holloways Beach or to the family-friendly Yorkeys Knob Beach. Do take note that if the beach doesn't have a stinger net, then it's recommended you wear a stinger suit (to avoid jellyfish stings).

Christchurch is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Cairns is terrific for its hiking experiences. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Cairns specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Near town you'll find wonderful national parks, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountain ranges. There are countless bush walks and hiking trails in the area. Head into the countryside and you'll get lost in nature and breathtaking views.

Many visitors go to Christchurch for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Is the Shopping Better in Cairns or Christchurch?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Cairns and Christchurch.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cairns. There's plenty of shopping around town in the form of shopping centers, markets, and boutique shops. Whether you're looking for trendy fashion or a fun souvenir, there are many places to explore.

Christchurch is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cairns or Christchurch.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cairns is a very family-friendly destination. With the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest nearby, this is a playground for kids and adults alike. There are sandy beaches, rainforest walks, turtle rehabilitation centers, scenic railways, adventure sports, and so much more.

Christchurch is one of the most popular family destinations. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cairns and Christchurch make for a high quality place to visit.

Cairns makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful tropical setting with world class beaches and diverse marine life. Couples who enjoy the outdoors and adventure will love this amazing destination. You can experience the area's wildlife, relax on sandy beaches, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. There is plenty of luxury, but also adventure-filled activities to choose from.

Couples visit Christchurch frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cairns is terrific for backpackers. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Cairns. Backpackers flock to this coastal town for its easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and its many activities and vibrant energy. There are adventure sports, wild nightclubs, and no shortage of places to hang out with other backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Students?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairns is not popular with students.

Christchurch is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Cairns is not popular with students.

Is Cairns or Christchurch Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cairns and Christchurch.

Cairns has some public transit options. Sunbus operates a public bus service that travels through the city center and to many beaches. Most routes start at Cairns City Mall.

You'll find some public transit in Christchurch, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Is Cairns or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Christchurch is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cairns is lacking in options for its walkability.

Christchurch is a very walkable destination. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

Cairns is generally not very walkable. While you can walk around many parts of the city center, most visitors want to head into the rainforest or experience the nearby day trips, which require a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Cairns Worth Visiting? and Is Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Cairns?

How long in Cairns or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Cairns or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cairns due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Cairns, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

Families should spend more time in Cairns than Christchurch. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cairns, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cairns than Christchurch. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cairns that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cairns than Christchurch if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cairns.

One day in Cairns or Christchurch?

In Cairns, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this adventure-filled city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Christchurch. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cairns or Christchurch?

Cairns is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Christchurch is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cairns or Christchurch?

In Cairns, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this idyllic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cairns or Christchurch?

Cairns is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Christchurch. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, The Best Luxury Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Budget Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Cairns and Christchurch, we can see that Christchurch is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cairns Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cairns or Christchurch?

Christchurch has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cairns. When comparing the sizes of Cairns and Christchurch, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Cairns or Christchurch?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Cairns or Christchurch in the Summer?

Both Christchurch and Cairns during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cairns because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

In January, Cairns is generally much warmer than Christchurch. Daily temperatures in Cairns average around 29°C (84°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cairns. Cairns usually gets more rain in January than Christchurch. Cairns gets 429 mm (16.9 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. November to March is the rainy season in Cairns.

Should I visit Cairns or Christchurch in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cairns and Christchurch. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cairns this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cairns is much warmer than Christchurch in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cairns averages around 27°C (80°F) in April, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Cairns gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Cairns usually receives more rain than Christchurch. Cairns gets 273 mm (10.8 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. April to October in Cairns is the dry season.

Should I visit Cairns or Christchurch in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cairns as well as Christchurch. Many travelers come to Cairns for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Christchurch in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cairns is much warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cairns in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Christchurch averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Cairns usually gets less rain in July than Christchurch. Cairns gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cairns or Christchurch in the Spring?

Both Christchurch and Cairns are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cairns in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In October, Cairns is generally much warmer than Christchurch. Daily temperatures in Cairns average around 27°C (80°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In October, Cairns usually receives around the same amount of rain as Christchurch. Cairns gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Cairns is April to October. The rainy season in Cairns is November to March.

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Cairns