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Christchurch International Airport CHC

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Christchurch International Airport (CHC) Guide

Discover Christchurch Airport, your entry to the South Island's wonders, featuring the world's first Antarctic-themed attraction inside an airport. Our guide simplifies your journey through CHC, covering everything from flight updates to amenities. Dive into our Comprehensive Airport Guide for a smooth travel experience.

CHC has two terminals: the Domestic Area and the International Terminal. The Domestic Area has 6 gates and is used by airlines such as Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Qantas. The International Terminal has 12 gates and is used by airlines such as Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Virgin Australia.

When arriving at the airport, make sure to check your flight information to see which terminal your airline is departing from. The terminals are located within walking distance of each other, but if you need assistance, there are airport staff members available to help guide you.

Inside each terminal, you will find a variety of food options, including cafes, restaurants, and bars. There are also several shops and services available, such as duty-free stores, souvenir shops, and currency exchange booths.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

CHC Airport has two terminals, the Domestic Area and the International Terminal. The terminals are located within walking distance of each other, taking approximately 5-10 minutes to walk between them. If you have heavy luggage or mobility issues, there is a free shuttle bus service that runs between the terminals every 15 minutes.

The shuttle bus service operates from 6:00am to 6:00pm and can be found outside the arrivals area of both terminals. If you need to transfer between the terminals outside of these hours, you can take a taxi or use the public bus service, which stops at both terminals. The public bus service runs every 30 minutes during peak times and every hour during off-peak times.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At CHC, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated areas outside of the terminal buildings. Curbside parking is strictly prohibited, and vehicles left unattended will be towed. It is important to follow the airport's regulations to ensure the safety and efficiency of the pick-up and drop-off process.

For those waiting to pick up passengers, the airport offers a cell-phone waiting area located near the domestic terminal. This area allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers have arrived and are ready to be picked up. This helps to alleviate traffic congestion and ensures a smooth flow of vehicles in and out of the airport.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're flying out of CHC Airport, you'll find a variety of parking options available to suit your needs. The airport offers both covered and uncovered parking in several lots and garages located near both the Domestic Area and International Terminal.

For those who are picking up arriving passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas available near both terminals. These areas allow you to wait in your car until your party has arrived and is ready to be picked up.

If you require handicapped parking, there are designated spaces available in all parking areas. These spaces are located close to the terminals and are clearly marked for easy identification.

For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it easy to get to your terminal without the hassle of finding a parking spot.

Get details about the airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

Christchurch International Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers arriving at the airport.

Car rental facilities are available at the airport with major providers such as Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty. These providers offer a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.

Taxi services are available at the airport, with drop-off areas located outside the terminal building. Fares are metered and vary depending on the destination. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

Shared ride services are also available at the airport, with pickup areas located outside the terminal building. These services have some restrictions, such as the number of passengers and luggage allowed per ride. It is recommended to check with the service provider for more information.

Airport shuttles provide a convenient and affordable option for travelers. These shuttles operate on a fixed schedule and pickup areas are located outside the terminal building. Fares vary depending on the destination and number of passengers.

Public transportation options include buses and trains. The airport is well connected to the city center and surrounding areas by bus routes and trains. Bus stops and train stations are located outside the terminal building. Fares vary depending on the destination and mode of transportation.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be a tiring process, and finding a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport can make your journey much more enjoyable. Whether you're in transit, arriving late, or departing early, staying near the airport can help make your travel experience smoother and less stressful. This guide provides an overview of some of the best hotel options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly accommodations. These hotels are conveniently located near the airport, with some offering additional amenities such as in-house restaurants, free WiFi, airport shuttle services, and more. Whether you're looking for a place to rest before a flight, a convenient base for exploring the city, or a comfortable spot to recover from jet lag, these hotels offer a range of options to suit your needs. Read on to discover the perfect hotel for your next trip. For a full list of options, view all Christchurch Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for a quick bite or a place to sit down and enjoy a meal before your flight, the airport has plenty of options. In the Domestic Area, you can grab a coffee and a pastry at Joe's Garage or a burger at Burger King. For a sit-down meal, try the Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Coriander's or the classic pub fare at Speight's Ale House.

In the International Terminal, you'll find even more dining options. If you're in the mood for Asian cuisine, check out Little India or Noodle House. For something a bit more upscale, try the seafood and steak at The Rocks. And if you just need a quick snack, head to Hudsons Coffee or Krispy Kreme.

When it comes to shopping, Christchurch International Airport has a variety of stores to choose from. In the Domestic Area, you can pick up some last-minute souvenirs at The Loop Duty Free or browse the selection of books and magazines at Whitcoulls. In the International Terminal, you'll find everything from luxury fashion brands like Hugo Boss and Michael Kors to New Zealand-themed gifts at The Great New Zealand Shop.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Christchurch Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, view the comprehensive list here.

Passenger Services

Christchurch Airport is equipped with a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as comfortable as possible.

For those needing to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Simply connect to the ‘CHC Free Wi-Fi’ network and follow the prompts to access the internet.

If you have lost an item during your travels, head to the lost and found office located in the International Terminal. The friendly staff will assist you in locating your lost item.

Traveling with children? The airport has a dedicated children’s area located in the Domestic Area. This area is equipped with toys, games, and a TV to keep your little ones entertained before your flight.

For passengers with special needs, the airport provides a range of services including wheelchair assistance, accessible toilets, and hearing loops. Simply contact your airline prior to your flight to arrange any necessary assistance.

Need to do some banking before your flight? There are ATMs and currency exchange services located throughout the airport in both the Domestic and International Terminals.

In case of a medical emergency, the airport has a medical center located in the International Terminal. The center is staffed with qualified medical professionals and equipped to handle a range of medical situations.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight, especially if there are any delays, cancelations, or gate changes. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status updates at CHC.

One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays can be found throughout the airport and provide real-time information about flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate your flight on the display and check the status.

Another way to get flight status updates is by using airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own apps that allow you to track your flight status, receive push notifications about delays or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. Simply download the app for your airline and set up notifications to stay informed.

In addition to mobile apps, airlines also offer text, email, and push notifications for flight status updates. Check with your airline to see if they offer this service and how to sign up.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at CHC Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

It is recommended that passengers arrive at CHC Airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. The busiest times at the airport are during the morning and evening rush hours, so it is best to avoid these times if possible. Additionally, passengers should check their airline's website for any updates or changes to their flight schedule before leaving for the airport.

Getting to the Airport

The airport is located approximately 12 kilometers from the city center. The best way to get to the airport is by taxi or shuttle bus, which can be booked in advance or found at designated pick-up areas outside the terminal. Alternatively, passengers can take public transportation, such as the bus or train, to the airport. There are also several parking options available for those who choose to drive themselves to the airport.

Getting Oriented

Christchurch International Airport offers an interactive map on its website, which can help passengers get oriented and find their way around the airport. The map includes information on terminal facilities, shops and restaurants, and parking areas. Additionally, there are information desks located throughout the terminal where passengers can ask for assistance or directions.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at Christchurch Airport, passengers should arrive early, check their flight status before leaving for the airport, and allow plenty of time to go through security and customs. It is also important to follow all airport rules and regulations, such as restrictions on liquids and electronics in carry-on luggage. Finally, passengers should keep their boarding pass and identification readily accessible and be prepared to present them at various checkpoints throughout the airport.

Airport Facts & Stats

The airport is the second busiest airport in New Zealand, located in the city of Christchurch. The airport has two terminals, Domestic Area and International Terminal, which serve both domestic and international flights.

On average, the airport handles around 6 million passengers annually, with an average of 16,000 passengers daily. There are approximately 130 daily flights departing from and arriving at CHC, with 20 airlines operating at the airport.

The top airlines with the most daily flights at CHC are Air New Zealand, Qantas, and Jetstar Airways. These airlines offer flights to various destinations in New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.

CHC serves around 20 domestic and international destinations, with the top 5 destinations being Auckland, Wellington, Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. These destinations are popular among both leisure and business travelers.

Christchurch International Airport is also a hub for Air New Zealand, which operates a significant number of flights to and from the airport. Other airlines that use CHC as a hub include Jetstar Airways and Virgin Australia.

Airport History

Christchurch Airport, located in the South Island of New Zealand, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1935: The airport was officially opened as Harewood Airport, named after the nearby Harewood Estate.
  • 1953: The first international flight from Christchurch to Sydney, Australia was operated by TEAL (Tasman Empire Airways Limited), which later became Air New Zealand.
  • 1960s: The airport underwent major expansion and modernization, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
  • 1970s: The airport became a hub for Air New Zealand and saw an increase in international flights to destinations such as Fiji and the United States.
  • 2010-2014: The airport underwent further expansion and renovation, including the construction of a new domestic terminal and parking facilities.
  • 2019: The airport was renamed to its current name, CHC, to better reflect its status as a major international gateway to New Zealand.

Today, CHC Airport serves over 6 million passengers annually and offers direct flights to destinations around the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Christchurch International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: CHC
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +64 3-358 5029
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Christchurch International Airport, PO Box 14-001, Christchurch 8544, New Zealand

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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