This boutique city is a foodie’s paradise, home to award-winning restaurants and quirky bars, while just beyond the city limits lie some of South Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. Think sun-dappled vineyards, ancient gorges, tranquil rivers and pristine beaches — all accessible in the space of a long weekend.

With new direct flights taking off from Christchurch this summer, it’s time to get your fill of everything the city and region has to offer.

Here’s a taste to get you started…

Savour the city

Adelaide’s streets are buzzing with bold flavours, local produce and passionate chefs. From slow-cooked seafood to melt in your mouth desserts, every dining moment feels reverent and considered. Finish your evening at one of the city’s many speakeasy-style bars. These hidden gems are packed with personality and unique cocktail creations you won’t find anywhere else.

Breeze through Barossa

Just an hour from the city, the Barossa Valley serves up a feast for the senses. Boasting over 200 cellar doors, you can sip century-old wines, graze your way through gourmet platters, or simply soak up the sun among the vines. Take a scenic drive through charming villages like Tanunda, Angaston and Nuriootpa, or hop on a guided wine tour and let someone else do the driving.

Ride the river

South Australia is home to the mighty Murray River, the third-largest navigable river in the world after the Amazon and Nile. For a real adventure, hire your own houseboat and explore this iconic waterway at your own pace. Drift past red cliffs, spot birdlife, and anchor up for a barbie under the stars. Or, stay at a riverside boathouse and enjoy the serenity from solid ground.

Go wild

For a different kind of adventure, head to Monarto Safari Park, the largest open-range safari experience outside of Africa. Spot lions, cheetahs and zebras roaming across its 1,500 hectares, from the safety of a protected vehicle. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with wild nature, just 70 minutes from Adelaide.

Explore nature and culture

Discover ecological and cultural treasures in Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park on the banks of the Murray River, where a local guide will walk you through galleries of ancient rock art and share the stories of the Nganguraku people. Or paddle through the peaceful waters of Coorong National Park, home to abundant birdlife and steeped in the traditions of the Ngarrindjeri people.

Hop to Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is a time capsule of wild Australiana, just off the coast. Explore dramatic rock formations, hike wild coastal trails, see kangaroos and koalas, or enjoy freshly harvested seafood and local wines. With friendly locals, epic scenery and remarkable wildlife around every corner, this offshore escape is a microcosm of authentic Australia.

 

Ready to pack your bags?

Head to Adelaide, a fun, friendly city that’s brimming with flavour, located in a simply magical region.

For the first time ever, Christchurch and Adelaide will be connected by a direct Air New Zealand flight, launching this summer. Taking off every Friday and Monday from 27 October 2025 to 28 March 2026, it’s just the ticket for an easy and exciting long weekend escape.

With the new service offering over 15,000 seats across the season, you’ll want to make sure you’re one of them!