Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Christchurch

Accommodation

$25-60 per night

Dorm beds in backpacker hostels, budget guesthouses, or shared rooms in basic accommodations

Food & Dining

$25-45 per day

Self-catering from supermarkets, food courts, casual cafes, and occasional takeaway meals

Transportation

$8-20 per day

Public buses, walking, occasional rideshare for longer distances

Activities

$10-35 per day

Free walking tours, public gardens, beaches, occasional museum entry or budget activity

Shop at local supermarkets and cook your own meals - typically 60-70% cheaper than eating out for every meal

Use the Metro bus system instead of taxis for daily transport - usually 80-85% cost savings

Visit free attractions like Botanic Gardens, beaches, and walking tracks instead of only paid activities

Book accommodation well outside the city center - generally 30-50% cheaper with good bus connections

Take advantage of happy hour specials and lunch menus at restaurants - typically 25-40% less than dinner prices

Use grocery store meal deals and food court options rather than tourist-area restaurants

Walk or cycle when possible - Christchurch is relatively flat and bike-friendly

Relying solely on taxis and rideshares instead of public transport - can triple your daily transport costs

Eating exclusively in the tourist-focused city center areas - typically 50-100% markup compared to suburban options

Booking accommodation at the last minute during peak seasons - often 40-80% more expensive than advance bookings

Not checking if activities have combo deals or city passes - missing potential 20-30% savings on multiple attractions