Looking for the perfect location to enhance the old Instagram grid? Cityscape’s list of the most ‘Grammable places in the city will have your next profile pic looking (chef’s kiss).
Views from above in the Port Hills Stunning city and ocean views, dramatic rocky outcrops and even the odd sheep: the Port Hills are a photoshoot waiting to happen. In a gentle breeze you’ve got your own natural wind machine, and you haven’t truly experienced golden hour until you’ve seen it here; let’s just say that when the sun hits this ridge just right, these hills sing.
The serenity of Ōtākaro Avon River The river is a gorgeous natural setting for a photographic genius, whether you’re reclining elegantly on a grassy bank or floating gently along in a kayak, canoe, or punt. Bring your daisy chains, duck food and waterproof camera.
Admire the endless ocean from New Brighton Pier Even if you’re not of a painterly persuasion, this vista will make you want to pick up a brush. Standing out stark against a vibrant sunset or a firm sentinel in stormy seas, the pier itself makes a very obliging subject, or you can walk to its end to get the very best of ocean backdrops.
Seek out some vibrant street art We love an edgy, colourful, urban art background, and lucky us, central Christchurch is full of them. Do a photo tour of our sweetest murals and add some serious colour to your grid.
Pretty in pastels in New Regent Street It ain’t called Christchurch’s prettiest street for nothing – with beautiful Spanish Mission-style architecture in dreamy pastel hues and plenty of picturesque outdoor tables to sit at, this little stretch is a photographer’s dream come true. Save your oohs and aahs for when the tram comes trundling by.
Embrace the garden city at Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park These expansive green spaces are most well-known for their springtime blooms, and the daffodil lawns in the gardens and Hagley Park’s famous cherry blossoms certainly earn their reputation. They’re both beautiful year-round as well, showing off stunning reds and golds in autumn, the lushest of greens in summer and atmospheric mists and winter blooms in the colder months.
Feel genteel at Antigua Boat Sheds We’re talking historic green-and-white striped boat sheds, we’re talking a riverside café, and we’re talking the iconic sight of punts and their passengers gliding past – it doesn’t get much more photogenic than this.
Beachside beauty at Corsair Bay This little bay just around from Lyttelton is gasp-inducingly gorgeous, with sparkling blue water framed on either side by bush-clad hills, and perfect little sailboats completing the picture. Bring your striped beach towel and best jandals for posing.
History is alive at The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora One of the best remaining examples of Gothic Revival architecture in a city famous for its Gothic Revival arthitecture, this is the idealspot to capture the spirit and history of old Christchurch. The buildings are beautiful inside and out, there are cute outdoor tables to sip a coffee at, and green spaces to enjoy on a sunny day.
Postcard-worthy in Victoria Square There are so many photogenic spots here you’ll need to scope them all out first. You’ll be instantly drawn to the water’s edge looking over at the Christchurch Town Hall, with the iconic dandelion fountains making for a fabulous backdrop.
Class it up at Mona Vale Historic homestead, pretty rounded bridges over the gently flowing Avon, sweeping green lawns and manicured gardens – what more could you want? Oh, and did we mention there are picture-perfect high teas on the menu?
Head into the woods at Christchurch Adventure Park This mecca of mountain biking and walking trails in the Port Hills is set among a beautiful pine forest and also has New Zealand’s longest chairlift – 1.8km offers plenty of time for snaps! The on-site café with its massive heated deck is also a rather lovely spot for taking photos of your coffee – we mean, enjoying a hot cuppa after your adventure.
Old industry meets Victorian chic at The Tannery A boutique shopping destination holding fabulous fashion, homewares, books, flowers, food and more within its walls, The Tannery is also a beautiful environment to enjoy a catch up with a friend, with French tiled floors, stained glass, intricate wrought iron archways and mahogany shop fronts. Pics or it didn’t happen.
Take a trip on the Christchurch Tram This spot happens to be constantly on the move, but no matter what you’re seeing out the window, the interior of this vintage tram is ‘Grammable AF. Be sure to grab a pic of the outside too – it looks particularly perfect stopped down New Regent Street.