Ata Mārie Christchurch
A Coastal Sunrise & Cultural Journey
Enjoy a classic Christchurch morning as we take you on an immersive journey that brings together Māori cultural traditions, the beauty of the Pacific horizon, and the warm hospitality of a local seaside café. You’ll visit the earthquake red-zone and take a quick-loop around the inner-city attractions before returning to your accommodation.
The Experience
Your early morning starts with a peaceful visit to one of our local Marae where you will experience a traditional blessing at the waharoa (gateway), helping ground our journey as you hear the ancient stories depicted in the carvings and take advantage of a special photo opportunity.
New Brighton Pier
As the morning awakes we’ll drive to the beach and the iconic New Brighton Pier. New Zealand is the first place in the world to see the sunrise, which you will do overlooking the waters of the Pacific Ocean. The dramatic concrete architecture of the pier and the shifting colours of the horizon provide the perfect backdrop for that uplifting Instagram photo capturing the essence of the morning flow.
Switch Cafe
We’ll make a short trip to the Switch Café where we trade the coastal breeze for some cozy, local hospitality. Relax as we’re served artisan treats and kiwi flavours with freshly brewed coffee and delicious sweet delights. Perfectly located in New Brighton Mall, Switch has a great vibe and is a friendly, warm and welcoming café with a laid back beachy feel.
The Residential (Earthquake) Red Zone
As we return to the city our journey will take us through the residential Red Zone, created as a result of the Christchurch earthquakes. You’ll see how some of the land has transitioned into an area with many exciting community projects and initiatives. We’ll follow the Avon/Ōtakoro River back into the CBD and your point of drop-off.
Highlights
- Exclusive Marae Visit: Start your day with a peaceful welcome at one of our local marae.
- Sunrise at the Pier: Visit an icon Christchurch landmark.
- Switch Café Flavors: Taste the best of the local cuisine.
- Earthquake Red Zone: Travel through the residential red zone.
- Personalised Transport: Free pick-up and stress-free travel from the CBD.
What to Bring
- Your phone or camera: For that perfect uplifting Instagram shot.
- Warm layers: The coastal breeze can be bracing, even in summer.
- Comfortable walking shoes: You will be exploring so it is best to wear good shoes.
- An open heart: To fully embrace the Māori blessing and local stories.
Itinerary
Duration:
Approximately 3 hours (seasonal variations apply).
Departure:
CBD Hotel pick-up.
Stop 1:
Ngā Hau e Whā Marae for a traditional blessing.
Stop 2:
New Brighton Pier for sunrise viewing and photography.
Stop 3:
Brunch at the local Switch café with treats.
Return:
Drop-off back in the Christchurch CBD via the Red Zone.