Cashel Street

The Basics

Following the destruction of the devastating 2011 earthquake, this hot spot remains a hub for city residents and visitors alike. Browse the high-end department stores or kick back with an afternoon tea and enjoy the spirit of downtown Christchurch as it literally emerges from the rubble. Ballantynes is still the stalwart on the Colombo Street corner, and the restored Bridge of Remembrance graces the western end of the shopping street at the river. You can find a few remnants of the Re:START mall, which temporarily erected colorful shipping containers in lieu of destroyed buildings from October 2011 to April 2017, between Colombo Street and Oxford Terrace.

Things to Know Before You Go

Cashel Street is a must-see for all first-time visitors to Christchurch.
The Riverside Market offers a boutique food shopping experience, including baked goods, produce, fish, and meats.
The nearby Quake City multimedia exhibit provides an in-depth appreciation of Christchurch’s fall and rebuild.

How to Get There

Cashel Street is centrally located in downtown Christchurch, within walking distance of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and other attractions. Parking is available, and the closest bus stop is on Colombo Street (between Tuam and Lichfield Streets), which is less than a block away. The Christchurch Tramway stops nearby.

Trip ideas

Ways to Experience Maori Culture in Christchurch

rom visits to Maori meeting grounds (marae) to performances of traditional songs and dances, here are just a few of the Maori experiences in Christchurch that can offer visitors insight into the Maori people and culture.

How to Spend 3 Days in Christchurch

Wine Tasting from Christchurch

How to Spend 2 Days in Christchurch

Whether you hop on a heritage tram, horse, or scenic train, there’s plenty to see and do in Christchurch. Here are some options for maximizing time on your 2-day stay.

How to Spend 1 Day in Christchurch

Akaroa Tours from Christchurch

Mt. Cook Tours from Christchurch

From hiking to aerial sightseeing, here’s how to experience Mt. Cook (Aoraki) from Christchurch.

Christchurch Past and Future

Unfortunately, many of the beautiful heritage buildings along Cashel Street were demolished after the 2011 quake. The Re:START Mall—which innovatively used more than 60 shipping containers—opened for business just eight months later. As temporary fixtures make way for more permanent structures like the Riverside Market complex, this downtown destination continues to grow into one of Christchurch’s most popular attractions.