Christchurch has a laid-back nightlife scene, particularly when compared to cities on New Zealand's North Island. Nightlife hotspots generally only begin to get started at around 11pm. The best area to find pubs and clubs in Christchurch is the trendy Oxford Terrace.

Viaduct, Tap Room and Liquidity all attract energetic crowds ready to party the night away. Coyote has a great, and usually packed, dance floor, while Rootes Bar is great for cocktails and people watching. Tequila lovers will be in their element at The Flying Burrito Brothers, and Dux de Lux is the best live music venue in town. There is a selection of popular and usually pumping dance clubs including The Concrete Club and Double Happy. Sammy's Jazz Review Bar hosts classy live jazz gigs and Twisted Hop Microbrewery is the best place to find a proper, but cold, English beer. Christchurch also has a selection of sports bars; some of the more popular ones include Legends, Holy Grail and The Loaded Hog.