Things to do in Christchurch, South Island: The Best Museums

Art Gallery/studio offering a large, affordable range of contemporary New Zealand paintings from over 40 artists.

Is the gallery and studio space for John Maillard. The Waihora has prints, books postcards and original artwork by John Maillard and other artists.

We have moved and expanded. The museum is now NZ Museum of Toys & Collectibles and the Toy Collector operates as the museum shop. The museum display is the result of 50 years of collecting of a broad range of toys as possible. This isn't exactly a museum in that the toys are not all old and they aren't all in pristine condition since toys are meant to be played with. An eclectic collection of toys through the ages designed to put a smile on your face and remind you of childhood days of playing whether recent or very distant. You are sure to find something you had, have or always wanted in the broad range of displays.

The Physics Room is a contemporary art space dedicated to developing and promoting contemporary art and critical discourse in Aotearoa New Zealand. Based in central Christchurch since 1996, our goal is to actively seek links between the arts and other areas of cultural production and to involve art as a contributing voice in wider intellectual, social and political debate. All of our exhibitions are free to attend.

Form Gallery showcases an extensive range of work by leading New Zealand contemporary object artists. Work includes cast and blown glass, ceramics, jewellery, and other media.

Free admission* | Discover New Zealand’s military aviation story at the place where it all began. Engage with stories of the men and women who have helped shape New Zealand’s military aviation journey, and reflect on their service and sacrifice through years of war and peace. Explore the diverse collection at your own pace through immersive exhibitions, or join a free, guided ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour. View the historic aircraft on display, embark on a Museum Hunt with the kids, or test your flying skills in the ‘Mosquito Mission’ flight simulator! Price: FREE Admission - *activity charges may apply. Opening Hours: Daily (except Christmas Day), 10.00am - 5.00pm.

Free entry (donations appreciated) where you can experience New Zealand's rich cultural and natural history. See rare Maori artefacts and more than 1,000 paua shells adorning the walls of the famous Paua Shell House. Walk down the Christchurch Street and be transported back in time with the sights and sounds of the city's pioneering days. Discover one of the world's most significant collections from the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and discovery. Regular temporary exhibitions.

Arts Centre's newest attraction, Rutherford's Den - an historic space dedicated to the science of New Zealand's most famous scientist. Ernest, Lord Rutherford, the moustached man on the $100 note, began his education in the very rooms that Rutherford's Den is located. Visitors get to experience not only the historic features of the rooms, but brand new state-of-the-art exhibits as they learn about the science of Rutherford and his peers. The transformation of Rutherford's Den cost $2m and, as an independent charity, the Arts Centre will use some of the money from ticket sales to help pay for this - plus refresh it in future. Online ticketing is now available or you can buy tickets at the on-siteshop.