A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Shiretoko National Park vs. Christchurch for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine. The beauty of Shiretoko National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Shiretoko National Park travel costs.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a adventure-filled, cultural, and outdoorsy city. Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Christchurch travel costs.

Shiretoko National Park and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Christchurch. Although Shiretoko National Park and Christchurch are both popular with visitors, Christchurch has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Christchurch is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Shiretoko National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Christchurch is more touristy than Shiretoko National Park and is known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere. It is also home to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Shiretoko National Park is popular for its pristine ecosystems, diverse wildlife, and rugged coastline.

How is Shiretoko National Park different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Christchurch and Shiretoko National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Christchurch can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Shiretoko National Park. This is a beautiful and pristine park, but there are limited amenities and museums in the area. You can hit up the Shiretoko Rausu Visitor Center for information on the region.


Is the Food Better in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for its restaurants.

Dining out in Christchurch is an experience not to be missed. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

While Shiretoko National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are a couple of restaurants on the edge of the park, but if you're planning to do any hiking, it's best to bring your own food.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for nightlife.

Christchurch offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Shiretoko National Park doesn't offer many options. Peaceful evenings and relaxing in nature are the best way to pass the time here, not socializing in a bar.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for the beach. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Christchurch. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Shiretoko National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Shiretoko National Park is terrific for its hiking experiences. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Shiretoko National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The park is pristine with striking and varied landscapes as well as diverse wildlife. Hiking is the best way to experience the area, and the scenic views, and world class hiking trails are among the best.

Many visitors go to Christchurch for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Is the Shopping Better in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Christchurch. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Shiretoko National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch More Beautiful?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Shiretoko National Park is well known for its scenery and beauty. Also, Christchurch is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Shiretoko National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The park is among the most beautiful in Japan. It has a scenic natural setting that is particularly nice during the winter season.

Christchurch offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its many beautiful parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces, this is a very scenic city.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch Better for Families?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Christchurch is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

Shiretoko National Park is a family-friendly remote,natural,scenic,pristine. Kids who enjoy an outdoor adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are wildlife viewing opportunities as well as mult-day hiking trails. Some parts of the park are challenging to access, so younger kids may be limited in what they can do.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch Better for Couples?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Shiretoko National Park and Christchurch are both very good to visit as a couple.

Shiretoko National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature, wildlife, and pristine hiking trails will enjoy a visit to this remote and natural park. There are many great hikes as well as scenic spots that you can explore.

Christchurch makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Both Shiretoko National Park and Christchurch are very good destinations for backpackers.

Shiretoko National Park is a very popular remote,natural,scenic,pristine for backpackers and budget travelers. Multi-day treks are a great way to explore the park and see the parts that are less popular with tourists.

Christchurch is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.


Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch Better for Students?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for students. However, Shiretoko National Park is not popular with students.

Christchurch is a great city to visit as a student. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

Shiretoko National Park is not popular with students.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Shiretoko National Park is not a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine for times when you don't have a car.

Christchurch has a few public transit options. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Shiretoko National Park. While there are buses that travel from Utoro to the east coast, they are infrequent. Your best options for visiting the park are having a private vehicle or joining a tour. Many parts of the park are only accessible by hiking or by boat.

Is Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch a more walkable city?

Shiretoko National Park
Christchurch

Christchurch is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Shiretoko National Park is not as famous, but is still a good remote,natural,scenic,pristine to visit for its walkability.

Christchurch is a very walkable destination. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore on foot.

Shiretoko National Park is somewhat walkable. It's a vast park with many hiking and cycling trails.


For even more information, also check out Is Shiretoko National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Shiretoko National Park?

How long in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch. In our opinion, Christchurch has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Christchurch than Shiretoko National Park. In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Shiretoko National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

Families should spend more time in Christchurch than Shiretoko National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Christchurch, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Christchurch than Shiretoko National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Christchurch that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Christchurch than Shiretoko National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Christchurch.


  • How many days in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch? Ideal Length of Stay
    Shiretoko National Park 3-4 
    Christchurch 2-4

One day in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

In Shiretoko National Park, many people enjoy the that this national park remote,natural,scenic,pristine offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the outdoorsy city of Christchurch. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

Shiretoko National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Christchurch is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Five days in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

You'll find around the national park destination of Shiretoko National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Christchurch is a great place to explore. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


A week in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

Shiretoko National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. Most people come for the beaches. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.


Which place is cheaper, Christchurch or Shiretoko National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Shiretoko National Park Prices
    Japan Prices
    Christchurch Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Shiretoko National Park $96
    Christchurch $117

The average daily cost (per person) in Shiretoko National Park is $96, while the average daily cost in Christchurch is $117. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Shiretoko National Park and Christchurch in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shiretoko National Park $34
    Christchurch $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shiretoko National Park $68
    Christchurch $98
Compare Hotels in Shiretoko National Park and Christchurch

Looking for a hotel in Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Shiretoko National Park


Hotels in Christchurch


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Shiretoko National Park Hotel Prices and Christchurch Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $27
    Christchurch $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Christchurch

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Christchurch:

  • CHC Airport to Downtown|Hotel Private Transfer: $26
  • Christchurch Airport to City SUV Transfer: $57
  • Private Transfer from Christchurch City to Lyttelton Cruise Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Lyttelton Cruise Port to Christchurch City: $87
  • Departure Transfer: Christchurch to Airport CHC by Business Car: $95
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Airport CHC to Christchurch in Luxury Car: $130
  • Christchurch Airport Transfers : Christchurch to Airport CHC in Luxury Car: $130
  • Christchurch Airport (CHC): Transfer to Christchurch hotels: $164
  • Private Transfer from Christchurch City to Akaroa Cruise Port: $189

Is it cheaper to fly into Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

Prices for flights to both Christchurch and Shiretoko National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $45
    Christchurch $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Shiretoko National Park $15
    Christchurch $17

Tours and Activities in Christchurch

Here are a few actual costs in Christchurch for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry Ticket: $20
  • Scenic Chairlift Ride at Christchurch Adventure Park: $20
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram: $23
  • Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket: $25
  • Christchurch Mystery Puzzle Tour “Shadow of the Prism”: $29
  • International Antarctic Centre General Admission Ticket: $44
  • Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo: $45
  • Christchurch Gondola and Tram City Tour Combo: $45
  • Gondola Ticket and Punt Ride on the Avon River: $46
  • Waka Paddling Experience on the Avon River: $57
  • Uniquely Kiwi Landsailing Adventure: $59
  • Tram, Punt and Gondola Ride Combo Ticket: $66

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shiretoko National Park $11
    Christchurch $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Christchurch

Also in Christchurch, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Waipara Wine Tour from Christchurch - including Lunch & Tastings: $108
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - Waipara Wine Tour With Lunch: $114
  • From Guided Local Wine Tours in Waipara: $116
  • Lyttelton Shore Excursion - City Highlights & Waipara Wine Tour : $135


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Shiretoko National Park and Christchurch, we can see that Christchurch is more expensive. And not only is Shiretoko National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Shiretoko National Park is in Asia and Christchurch is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Shiretoko National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shiretoko National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Christchurch would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Christchurch than you might in Shiretoko National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Shiretoko National Park Expensive? and Is Christchurch Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Christchurch is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Shiretoko National Park has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shiretoko National Park and Christchurch. Many visitors come to Shiretoko National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Christchurch for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Shiretoko National Park is generally around the same temperature as Christchurchin January. Daily temperatures in Shiretoko National Park average around 18°C (64°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Christchurch this time of the year. Shiretoko National Park usually receives less sunshine than Christchurch during summer. Shiretoko National Park gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Shiretoko National Park usually receives more rain than Christchurchin January. Shiretoko National Park gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Shiretoko National Park 18°C (64°F) 
    Christchurch 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shiretoko National Park as well as Christchurch. Most visitors come to Shiretoko National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Christchurch because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Shiretoko National Park is cooler than Christchurch in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shiretoko National Park averages around 10°C (51°F) in October, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in April.

In the autumn, Shiretoko National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Christchurchin April. Shiretoko National Park gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 161 hours of full sun.

Shiretoko National Park usually gets more rain in October than Christchurchin April. Shiretoko National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Shiretoko National Park 10°C (51°F) 
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch in the Winter?

Both Christchurch and Shiretoko National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Christchurch this time of year.

The weather in Shiretoko National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Shiretoko National Park is much colder than Christchurch. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shiretoko National Park in January average around -6°C (20°F), and Christchurch averages at about 6°C (43°F)in July.

Shiretoko National Park usually receives less sunshine than Christchurch during winter. Shiretoko National Park gets 108 hours of sunny skies, while Christchurch receives 122 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shiretoko National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Christchurchin July. Shiretoko National Park gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Shiretoko National Park -6°C (20°F) 
    Christchurch 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Shiretoko National Park or Christchurch in the Spring?

Both Christchurch and Shiretoko National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Shiretoko National Park this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Christchurch for the beaches and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Shiretoko National Park in the spring. In April, Shiretoko National Park is generally much colder than Christchurchin October. Daily temperatures in Shiretoko National Park average around 5°C (40°F), and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Christchurch, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Shiretoko National Park often gets less sunshine than Christchurchin October. Shiretoko National Park gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Christchurch receives 204 hours of full sun.

Shiretoko National Park usually gets more rain in April than Christchurchin October. Shiretoko National Park gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Shiretoko National Park 5°C (40°F) 
    Christchurch 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Christchurch and Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park Christchurch
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -6°C (20°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb -7°C (19°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Mar -3°C (28°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 5°C (40°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 77 mm (3 in) 6°C (44°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in) 6°C (43°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Oct 10°C (51°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 4°C (38°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (58°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)