The best museums in Christchurch in September 2025

These are the top 20 best museums in Christchurch, New Zealand, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2025. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

For a complete overview of museums in Christchurch, their exhibitions and discount cards & passes, see our overview page with all museums in Christchurch.

Looking for the best museums in Christchurch? These are the best ones:

  1. International Antarctic Centre1

    International Antarctic Centre

     Christchurch
  2. Air Force Museum of New Zealand2

    Air Force Museum of New Zealand

     Christchurch
    The Air Force Museum of New Zealand, previously known as the Royal New Zealand Air Force Museum, is situated in Wigram, which was the first operational base of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). The museum is located in Christchurch, on the South Island of New Zealand.
  3. Orana Wildlife Park3

    Orana Wildlife Park

     Christchurch
  4. Canterbury Museum4

    Canterbury Museum

     Christchurch
    The Canterbury Museum, situated in Christchurch, New Zealand, is home to a wide range of internationally recognized exhibitions. These include displays on Antarctica, contemporary costumes, New Zealand avifauna (including extinct species), insects, the history of conflicts between the Maori and Europeans in the Canterbury region, ornamental art from Asia, and Canterbury's natural history. These diverse exhibits provide a comprehensive insight into the region's rich cultural and natural history.
  5. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve5

    Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

     Christchurch
  6. Christchurch Arts Centre6

    Christchurch Arts Centre

     Christchurch
  7. Ferrymead Heritage Park7

    Ferrymead Heritage Park

     Christchurch
    Ferrymead Heritage Park, located in Christchurch, New Zealand, is an open-air museum that takes visitors back to the Edwardian era. The park is designed to replicate a small town from this period, providing a unique glimpse into the past. It's a great place for tourists who are interested in history and want to experience what life was like during the Edwardian era in New Zealand.
  8. Riccarton House and Bush8

    Riccarton House and Bush

     Christchurch
  9. Our City O-Tautahi9

    Our City O-Tautahi

     Christchurch
  10. 10

    Quake City

     Christchurch
  11. The Physics Room11

    The Physics Room

     Christchurch
    The Physics Room, located in Christchurch, New Zealand, is a non-commercial contemporary art gallery. It is recognized as one of the country's leading contemporary experiential art spaces. This gallery offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience contemporary art in a non-commercial setting, providing a different perspective on the art scene in New Zealand.
  12. The Central Art Gallery12

    The Central Art Gallery

     Christchurch
  13. Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū13

    Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū

     Christchurch
    The Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, also known as the Christchurch Art Gallery, is the public art gallery of Christchurch, New Zealand. It is a significant cultural institution in the city, showcasing a substantial collection of art and hosting a variety of New Zealand and international exhibitions. The gallery is funded by the Christchurch City Council and is a testament to the city's commitment to the arts.
  14. 14

    Rutherford's Den

     Christchurch
  15. 15

    Mike Pero's Motorcycle Gallery

     Christchurch
  16. 16

    Old Timers Clock Museum

     Christchurch
    This little but rich museum holds out to the visitors the wonderful history of clocks. It is considered as the best clock shop in NZ.
  17. 17

    Matuku Takotako: Sumner Centre

     Christchurch
  18. Yaldhurst Museum18

    Yaldhurst Museum

     Christchurch
    The Yaldhurst Museum is conveniently located in the suburb of Yaldhurst in Christchurch, New Zealand. Its proximity to the Christchurch International Airport, Riccarton Race Course, and Ruapuna Speedway makes it easily accessible for tourists. The museum's location offers a great opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history of road transport vehicles in New Zealand.
  19. 19

    Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities

     Christchurch
  20. 20

    Beam Gallery

     Christchurch

All museums in Christchurch