Metro bus Route 29 connects the airport to the city centre (Cathedral Square) in approximately 25–30 minutes, running throughout the day.
Things to do at Christchurch International Airport (CHC)
Christchurch International AirportCHC

At the airport
Things to do in Christchurch International Airport
Christchurch Airport is New Zealand's South Island gateway and the main hub for Antarctica expeditions. The terminal is modern with good Kiwi dining options. A free shuttle connects to the Park & Ride where buses reach the city centre. Christchurch's Botanic Gardens and the Avon River punting are popular layover destinations in the rebuilt inner city.
Insider intel
Top Tips for Christchurch International Airport
- Christchurch's rebuild following the 2011 earthquake has created a vibrant mix of container-based retail spaces, street art, and new architecture — worth exploring on a longer stop.
Lounge directory
Browse lounges at CHC
Discover Sanctifly partner lounges at Christchurch International Airport (CHC). Book access with your points.Purchase a Sanctifly membership via our website or app.
Unlock airport-specific digital content and reserve VIP lounges using the points included with your plan.
Select the tier that fits your travel habits; higher tiers include more points.
When you book a lounge, you'll receive a unique access code in the app and by email—show this at the lounge to gain access.
You can buy extra points at any time, and rates improve with higher-tier plans.
Membership unlocks airport-specific digital content and the ability to book VIP lounges using points.
Each tier
Liftoff ($25/year)
Explorer ($97/year)
Jetsetter ($220/year)
Trailblazer ($399/year)
provides a different annual points allowance (except Liftoff, which doesn't include points) that refreshes when your subscription renews. You can use your points to reserve lounge access and purchase additional points through the app if you need more.
Higher tiers not only come with more points but also reduce the per-point price when buying extra.
Points are the currency you use in the Liftoff app to book VIP lounge visits. Most plans — Liftoff, Explorer, Jetsetter and Trailblazer — include a points allowance that is deposited into your account whenever your subscription renews. Liftoff does not include points. You spend points to reserve lounges and you can top up your balance at any time through the app. If you cancel your membership, any remaining points expire 30 days after cancellation.
Additional points can be purchased directly in the Sanctifly app from your mobile. All plans allow you to buy more points whenever you need them, and the per-point price decreases on higher-tier plans. Purchased points are added to your account immediately and are non-refundable. If you cancel your membership, any remaining points expire 30 days after cancellation.