Canterbury Museum

Learn about the natural history of Canterbury, the people who have made their homes here and our connection to Antarctica. Located in the heart of the city next to the Botanic Gardens, the Museum is one of Christchurch's most popular attractions. Entry is free and donations are appreciated.

The Māori galleries display treasures and tools from our region’s first people. The Christchurch Street and Victorian Museum recreate the nineteenth-century city. Learn about the heroic explorers of the icy continent and see objects from the Museum’s internationally significant Antarctic collection. Other highlights include the gold-plated motorcycle that belonged to world speedway champion, Ivan Mauger and displays of the now-extinct giant bird, the moa. At the world-famous kiwiana icon, Fred & Myrtle’s Pāua Shell House see more than 1,000 pāua shells, the most you’ll find in any one place. Children will love learning about the natural world in their own area, Discovery.

Regular special New Zealand and international exhibitions.