Check out our tips on how you can get yourself settling easily for your new life in Christchurch and make the most of your time here.

Supermarkets and Convenience stores

In New Zealand, these are the supermarkets and convenience stores Pak’nSave, Countdown, New World, Super Value, Fresh Choice etc. The main supermarkets in Christchurch are Pak’nSave, Countdown, New World, Super Value and Fresh Choice. Prices vary at different supermarkets, for students or anyone who live on a budgets, Pak’nSave maybe your best choice. There will be sales and discounts available at different supermarkets from time to time, please keep an eye on their website.  Countdown and New World do offer online shopping and delivery service, here are their website for you to follow. 

Don’t forget to register a AA SmartFuel Card - One card, if you have a car. You will have a discount when you gas up if you consume to the specified amount in Countdown.

New World, Super Value, Fresh Choice are more expensive compared to others, but their seasonal vegetable are more fresh. You can choose the most suitable case according to your personal economic situation and location.

Shopping Mall

At present, there are four main shopping centers in Christchurch ——Westfield Mall (also known as Riccarton Mall), Eastgate Mall, The Palms and Northlands Mall. Riccarton Mall is the largest shopping center in Christchurch, there is a cinema in the mall, movie tickets price ranges from $11 - $15 NZD. 

Both Riccarton Mall and The Palms have Kmart, you can buy articles for daily use and simple clothing such as socks and nighties which all priced well. In addition, Riccarton Mall, The Palms and Northlands Mall all have Farmers which is also a good choice for daily items. 

For electronic appliances, Noel Leeming, JB Hi-Fi are pretty good choices, they all have stores at Riccarton mall and other places around the city. 

Also, don’t miss the Life Pharmacy if you are in need of cosmetics or medicines.