A Travel Price Comparison for New Zealand Mount Aspiring National Park vs. Christchurch for Hiking, Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mount Aspiring National Park and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Christchurch than Mount Aspiring National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Christchurch is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Christchurch is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. Also, Christchurch is famous for the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Mount Aspiring National Park different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Christchurch can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Christchurch. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Christchurch offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for the beache. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Christchurch. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Mount Aspiring National Park is terrific for its hiking experiences. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Christchurch is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch Better for Families?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mount Aspiring National Park. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.


Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Mount Aspiring National Park and Christchurch are both very good to visit as a couple.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Christchurch makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park . Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch Better for Students?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Christchurch is a great city to visit as a student. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.


Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Christchurch has a few public transit options. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Mount Aspiring National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

How long in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Christchurch.


  • How many days in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mount Aspiring National Park 2-5 
    Christchurch 2-4

One day in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

In Mount Aspiring National Park, many people enjoy the that this undeveloped national park 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.

The outdoorsy destination of Christchurch offers shopping and museums. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Christchurch has to offer.

Five days in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

In Mount Aspiring National Park, many people enjoy the that this rugged 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Christchurch is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural city of Christchurch. Most people come for the beaches. It offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Christchurch or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mount Aspiring National Park is $109, while the average daily cost in Christchurch is $95. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mount Aspiring National Park and Christchurch in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
    Christchurch $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
    Christchurch $98
Compare Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park and Christchurch

Looking for a hotel in Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Hotels in Christchurch


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices and Christchurch Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49
    Christchurch $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Christchurch

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Christchurch:

  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Port to Christchurch Airport CHC: $29
  • Christchurch to Christchurch Airport(CHC)- Departure Transfer: $32
  • Christchurch City Hotels to Airport Transfer - Lowest price 1 to 4 Pax & 2 Bags: $54
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Airport CHC to Christchurch in Business Car: $65
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Business Car: $65
  • Christchurch Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Christchurch: $69
  • Christchurch City Hotels to Airport Transfer - Lowest price 1 to 9 Passengers: $79
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Van: $90
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Airport CHC to Christchurch in Luxury Van: $90
  • Christchurch Airport (CHC): Transfer to Christchurch hotels: $129

Is it cheaper to fly into Mount Aspiring National Park or Christchurch?

Prices for flights to both Christchurch and Mount Aspiring National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mount Aspiring National Park $18
    Christchurch $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29
    Christchurch $17

Tours and Activities in Christchurch

Here are a few actual costs in Christchurch for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Chairlift Sightseeing Pass at the Christchurch Adventure Park: $17
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram: $21
  • Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket: $25
  • Christchurch International Antarctic Centre Entry Tickets: $35
  • International Antarctic Center General Admission Ticket: $36
  • Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo: $41
  • Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo: $45
  • Gondola Ticket and Punt Ride on the Avon River: $47
  • Tram, Punt and Gondola Ride Combo Ticket: $62
  • Waipara Wine Trail Afternoon Tour from Christchurch: $76
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion: Christchurch Sightseeing with Antarctic Center: $97
  • Waipara Wine Trail Tour From Christchurch : $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.09
    Christchurch $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Christchurch

Also in Christchurch, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • From Full-Day Wine Tour with Lunch: $99
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch: $103
  • All-Inclusive Waipara Region Wine Tour from Christchurch: $106
  • From Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara: $118
  • Akaroa Craft Distillery HeliGin Experience: $527


When comparing the travel costs between Mount Aspiring National Park and Christchurch, we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.