Things to Do in Christchurch in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Christchurch
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak spring season with 14+ hour daylight and gardens in full bloom - Canterbury Museum gardens and Hagley Park showcase vibrant rhododendrons and cherry blossoms that peak mid-November
- Festival season with Cup & Show Week (second week) creating a carnival atmosphere - locals dress up, bars extend hours, and the entire city celebrates with increased public transport and special events
- Perfect hiking weather with 18°C (65°F) highs and minimal rainfall - Banks Peninsula tracks are dry underfoot and Arthur's Pass day trips offer crystal-clear mountain views without winter snow closures
- Pre-summer pricing on accommodations - typically 15-25% cheaper than December-February peak season, with many hotels offering shoulder season packages including breakfast and late checkout
Considerations
- Variable spring weather means you'll experience four seasons in one day - mornings start at 7°C (45°F) requiring layers, while afternoons can hit 18°C (65°F), making packing challenging
- Tourist season is ramping up but services aren't at full capacity yet - some seasonal attractions operate reduced hours and the Christchurch Gondola may have maintenance closures weekdays
- Strong nor'west winds are common in November, creating hot, dry conditions that can reach 25°C (77°F) unexpectedly and make outdoor dining uncomfortable in exposed areas like the Arts Centre markets
Best Activities in November
Banks Peninsula Nature Tours
November is optimal for wildlife viewing as little blue penguins are most active during breeding season and Hector's dolphins are frequently spotted in calmer spring seas. The 18°C (65°F) temperatures make the 2-hour coastal drives comfortable, and walking tracks around Akaroa are mud-free after winter. Wildflowers carpet Diamond Harbour and Port Levy areas.
Arthur's Pass Alpine Day Trips
Spring conditions offer the perfect balance - winter snow has cleared from most tracks but summer crowds haven't arrived. The 90-minute drive from Christchurch showcases vivid green Canterbury Plains contrasted with snow-capped peaks. Devil's Punchbowl Falls is at peak flow from snowmelt, and temperatures stay comfortable for hiking at 1,000m (3,280ft) elevation.
Central City Heritage Walking Routes
November's mild temperatures and long daylight make this the ideal month for exploring Christchurch's earthquake recovery story. The 14+ hours of daylight allow comprehensive walks through the Avon River precinct, new innovations area, and rebuilt Cathedral Square. Spring energy means outdoor cafés are bustling and street performers are active.
Hagley Park and Botanic Gardens Exploration
Spring bloom season peaks in November with 150+ year old specimen trees in fresh leaf and rose gardens beginning their flowering cycle. The 165-hectare park system offers perfect picnic weather and the Avon River is ideal for punting without summer's extreme heat. Early morning visits (8-10am) offer misty river scenes and active birdlife.
Canterbury Wine Region Tours
November marks the start of the wine tourism season with vineyard landscapes turning green and cellar doors reopening extended hours after winter closures. Waipara Valley, 45 minutes north, offers crisp spring air perfect for outdoor tastings and the limestone landscape is particularly photogenic. Local pinot noir and riesling varietals reflect the season's fresh character.
Port Hills Mountain Biking Trails
Spring conditions create perfect mountain biking weather with firm, dry trails and comfortable temperatures for climbing. The 1,400+ hectares of trails offer spectacular views over Christchurch city and Canterbury Plains. November's clear air provides visibility to the Southern Alps 150km (93 miles) away, and tracks are busy enough to feel safe but not crowded.
November Events & Festivals
Cup & Show Week
The biggest event in Canterbury's calendar combines the New Zealand Cup horse racing at Riccarton Park with the Canterbury A&P Show. The entire city celebrates with a public holiday (Show Day), extended bar hours, fashion competitions, and a carnival atmosphere. Locals traditionally dress up and many businesses close early.
World Buskers Festival
International street performers take over Cathedral Square and various city venues for 10 days of comedy, music, and circus acts. November's mild weather and long daylight hours create perfect conditions for outdoor performances that can run until 9pm. Many shows are free, creating a vibrant city center atmosphere.