Kia Ora and Welcome

to New Brighton

Just 15 minutes from central Christchurch, New Brighton is the city’s favourite beachside destination, with small village charm. From stunning sunrise walks along the iconic pier and soaking in the waters of He Puna Taimoana Hot Pools to exploring local cafés, street art, markets and endless sandy coastline, there’s something here for everyone.

Whether you’re planning a family day out, searching for free things to do in Christchurch, or considering a move to the coast, New Brighton offers a unique slice of Aotearoa’s most up and coming city, with a strong sense of community.

This site brings together the best things to see, explore and experience in New Brighton. Discover local attractions, hidden gems and community stories, and start planning your visit!

Charlie the crocodile at The North Beach Mini Zoo

The North New Brighton Zoo

A Christchurch institution, the mini zoo was was both a source of fascination and controversy. Established in the late 1950s by Bill Grey, the small zoo allowed residents and tourists to encounter animals up close, from lions and tigers to the famously intimidating crocodile kept in a glass enclosure near...

Duke Festival of Surfing: Aloha & Aroha

https://youtu.be/sgFFJTMmc_g Every year, New Brighton Beach in Christchurch, comes alive with the vibrant energy of one of the largest surfing competitions in Aotearoa – the Duke Festival of Surfing. This unique festival, which draws in over 200 entries across 14 age group divisions, is not just about showcasing surfing prowess; it’s...

How to Have The Best Day Out in Brighton with Your Dog

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WAtHJ8Gk2vk Whether you're on two legs, or four, New Brighton is just one big playground! Check out our guide to having the best dog's day out in New Brighton. Burn off some energy at the Rawhiti Domain Dog Park.Start the day off with a visit to the dog park. It's a fully...

Kite Day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tw2rJpiF5Hc "It doesn't cost anything to come down to the beach and just fly a kite." That prevailing easterly we get in New Brighton isn't all bad - in fact, it's perfect for flying kites! And the bigger, the better! Kite Day is an annual festival in New Brighton that's been running for...

A Gift to the Sea – Sand Artist Wayne Webb

https://youtu.be/xNIs_CIDtqY Every day, sometimes twice a day, Wayne heads to the beach on low tide. He says he has to. There's creativity in him, and he needs to get it down on the sand. We have a history of sand art here in New Brighton, and like those before him, Wayne's taken...

The New Brighton Pier

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6ypYwa7omE As Christchurch's most recognisable landmark, chances are you've seen our iconic Pier, whether in person, photos, or city advertising. But did you know this is New Brighton's second Pier, and we went thirty years without one? Let's go back to the late 19th century when New Brighton was the go-to destination...

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