Marriage Requirements
Couples planning a Christchurch wedding must fill out a Notice of Intended Marriage at least three days prior to the ceremony. Birth certificates may also be required. Divorce and death decrees are also required if applicable. For more information, check with your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist.
Travel Information
Travel Documents
Passports are required for entry into New Zealand. If you are a citizen of the US, visit travel.state.gov for more information on travel documents needed. For Canadian travelers, visit travel.gc.ca for relevant travel information.
Language
The official language of New Zealand is English, though a number of regional Pacific dialects are also spoken.
Currency and Tipping
The New Zealand Dollar is the currency of New Zealand.
Climate & Beaches
Climate
The climate of Christchurch is described as being both moderate and temperate. Temperatures in the summer average around 73 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the colder months the temperature hovers around 52 degrees F.
Beaches
Christchurch and its surrounding coastline are home to beautiful beaches ranging from wild and rocky inlets dotted with penguins to popular surf hubs. Waimairi Beach has great views of the snow-capped mountains in the distance, while Quail Island has great walking paths and vistas. Sumner Beach, Taylors Mistake and Spencer Park are also fantastic options.
Activities & Attractions
Activities
As the gateway to Canterbury, there are near endless ways to explore Christchurch and the surrounding South Island. Known as the garden city, Christchurch’s Botanic Garden is in the cities’ center, and there are a number of green spaces like Travis Wetland and The Groynes, where you can bike, hike, picnic and bird watch. For panoramic views of the landscape, take the Christchurch Gondola where you can see the spectacular Lyttelton Harbour and Southern Alps. Or, enjoy Christchurch on the water with a punt boat ride down the Avon River or scope out penguins on the wild beaches.
Nightlife