Christchurch is blessed with views to all sides: the Port Hills, the Southern Alps, the Pacific Ocean and the Avon River. Here are Cityscape’s picks of the best spots in town to take in the views with your favourite beverage on hand.

Pink Lady Rooftop

See an unhindered outlook of the city skyline, the Port Hills, and the Southern Alps from the rooftop bar at the Muse Hotel. Drink Fortune Favours
craft beers and Miami-style cocktails with a special Pink Lady flair. pinkladyrooftop.co.nz

Beach

See the sand, sea and sun from this idyllic restaurant and bar plonked right on Sumner beach. Drink a fine craft beer, a glass of bubbles, or on a warm day get into a speciality frozen cocktail. beachsumner.co.nz

Sign of the Kiwi

See extensive views of Christchurch and the mountainous spine of the South Island from the tippity top of the Port Hills. Drink a killer espresso with your all-day breakfast. signofthekiwi.co.nz

Ōtoromiro Hotel

See the length of Lyttelton Harbour and Quail Island from the spacious balcony. Drink something from the extensive list of local Banks Peninsula and Waipara wines. governorsbayhotel.co.nz

Scarborough Fare

See the surfers, stand-up paddleboarders, the seagulls and the brave autumn swimmers at Sumner Beach. Drink a coffee or hot choccy made with speciality dairy-free milks. scarboroughfare.info

Fisherman’s Wharf Lyttelton

See panoramic views of the seaside suburb, the working port, and the harbour bays. Drink a Waipara Hills Riesling with your freshly-caught fish. fishermanswharf.nz

Salt on the Pier

See New Brighton Pier, the Pacific Ocean, the expansive coastline of Pegasus Bay and even Kaikōura on a clear day. Drink a fruity French soda to rehydrate after a hot soak at He Puna Taimoana next door. saltonthepier.co.nz

Mr Brightside Rooftop Bar

See the sunset and the hustle and bustle of the riverside area from the vantage of the iconic Public Trust Building. Drink something from the premium G&T menu: New Zealand gin, luxury mixer and a fresh garnish of your choice. mrbrightside.co.nz

Castro’s Tapas & Bar

See the world pass by from Castro’s upstairs balcony at Riverside Market, accompanied by the bar’s famous painted Spanish bull statues. Drink a Peachy Maggie, Castro’s fruity and slightly spicy spin on the margarita. castro.co.nz