New Brighton Beach and Pier
A 300-meter concrete pier and wide, clean beach offering stunning ocean vistas, fishing opportunities, and a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning light for photos
New Brighton Beach and Pier
Best Time
Stunning light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 300-meter concrete pier and wide, clean beach offering stunning ocean vistas, fishing opportunities, and a peaceful escape.
"The views from the pier are stunning—especially at sunrise or sunset when the sky puts on a show."
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Visit for sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular views and photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Stroll to the End
Walk the full 300 meters of the pier for expansive ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

New Brighton Pier Sunset
End of the pier
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a magical glow over the ocean.

Ocean Vistas
Along the pier
Stroll along the 300-meter concrete pier, feeling the sea breeze and listening to waves crash beneath you.

Angler's Paradise
New Brighton Pier
Join local fishermen casting their lines into the ocean, hoping for a successful catch amidst the rolling waves.

Family Beach Day
New Brighton Beach
Enjoy the clean, wide beach perfect for children to play, run, and engage in various seaside activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Pier Safety and Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
New Brighton Pier, Christchurch
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Visit for sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular views and photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Stroll to the End
Walk the full 300 meters of the pier for expansive ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze.
Jumping off the New Brighton Pier
Any top tips for Fishing of Brighton pier?
🎣 Fishing Fun
Bring your gear if you enjoy fishing; many visitors have success catching fish from the pier.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
The wide, clean beach is perfect for kids to play and explore. Cafes and playgrounds are nearby.
Christchurch fishing
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Visit for sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular views and photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Stroll to the End
Walk the full 300 meters of the pier for expansive ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze.
🎣 Fishing Fun
Bring your gear if you enjoy fishing; many visitors have success catching fish from the pier.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Fun
The wide, clean beach is perfect for kids to play and explore. Cafes and playgrounds are nearby.
⚠️ Pier Safety
Avoid jumping off the pier, especially at low tide, as water depth can be unpredictable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise New Brighton Beach and Pier for its stunning sunrise and sunset views, peaceful atmosphere, and family-friendly environment. The pier is a highlight for fishing and scenic walks, while the clean, wide beach offers ample space for recreation. Some minor concerns include occasional litter and the general advice against jumping off the pier.
"Great looking beach for a summer's day... Cool and fresh on 14 June 2025. Some fitness enthusiasts, fishermen, photographers and a few gulls adds life to the ever rolling ocean. Great views and great place for a casual stroll."
B. F. G.
"Calm, peaceful, and perfect for relaxing. This place is family-friendly, with wide open areas for children to run, play, and join in on different activities.”"
PORNCHOK DONSANTIA
"New Brighton Pier is an absolute gem and a must-visit spot in Christchurch! The views from the pier are stunning—especially at sunrise or sunset when the sky puts on a show. You can walk right out over the ocean and take in the fresh sea breeze, with waves crashing underneath you. There’s always a peaceful, relaxed vibe, whether you’re fishing, strolling, or just soaking in the atmosphere.
The beach is clean and wide, great for families, surfers, or anyone wanting a day out by the water. Plus, there are some great cafes and playgrounds nearby, making it a perfect destination for all ages. Every time I visit, I leave feeling refreshed and grounded. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area!"
Milan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
New Brighton Beach and Pier is easily accessible from Christchurch city center. You can drive, which takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport is also an option, with several bus routes serving the New Brighton area. Check the Metro Christchurch website for the most up-to-date bus schedules and routes.
Yes, there is ample parking available near the beach and pier. You'll find street parking and dedicated parking areas, especially close to the main esplanade and amenities. It's generally easy to find a spot, particularly on weekdays.
Absolutely! Christchurch has a good network of cycle paths, and you can cycle to New Brighton. There are usually bike racks available near the pier and along the beachfront for securing your bicycle.
The main bus routes stop along Brighton Mall and nearby streets, putting you within easy walking distance of the pier and beach. It's advisable to check the Metro Christchurch app or website for specific route numbers and stop locations.
The pier itself is generally accessible, being a wide concrete structure. The beach access points and surrounding pathways are also designed to be accessible, making it a welcoming spot for visitors with mobility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit New Brighton Beach and Pier. Access to both the beach and the pier is free for everyone. You can enjoy the scenery and activities without any admission fees.
The New Brighton Pier is open 24/7. You can visit at any time of day or night, though it's most popular during daylight hours, especially for sunrise and sunset.
There are no specific fees for fishing on the pier itself. However, you will need to ensure you have the appropriate fishing licenses and comply with New Zealand's fishing regulations.
The beach is a public space and has no entry fee. You are welcome to enjoy the sand, sea, and surf free of charge.
While the pier is open 24/7, it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting late at night. The main amenities like toilets and cafes will have their own operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a wide range of activities, including walking along the pier, fishing, photography, beachcombing, swimming (with caution), and simply relaxing by the ocean. The nearby area also offers playgrounds and cafes.
The New Brighton Pier is a solid concrete structure, 300 meters long and 6 meters wide, making it safe for walking. However, always be mindful of the weather conditions, especially wind and waves, and keep an eye on children.
Anglers often catch species like kahawai, rig, and various smaller fish. Success can vary depending on the season and conditions. It's a popular spot for both recreational and serious fishermen.
Yes, there are public restrooms located near the pier and along the beachfront. You'll also find cafes and other amenities in the vicinity of Brighton Mall.
Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical for photography at New Brighton Beach and Pier, offering dramatic skies and beautiful light. Midday can also be good for capturing the vibrant blues of the ocean and sky.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several cafes and eateries located in the Brighton Mall area, which is just a short walk from the pier and beach. You can find options for coffee, snacks, and meals.
New Brighton Beach is a great spot for a picnic. There are open grassy areas and plenty of space on the sand. Remember to bring your own food and drinks, and be sure to clean up after yourself.
Typically, there are no permanent food vendors directly on the New Brighton Pier itself. However, the proximity to Brighton Mall means you're never far from dining options.
You can expect typical seaside cafe fare, including coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals. Some places might offer fish and chips, a classic beachside treat.
Yes, you can usually purchase fishing bait from local tackle shops or some of the general stores in the New Brighton area. It's worth checking with local businesses for availability.
📸 📸 Photography
The end of the pier offers panoramic views of the coastline and ocean. The beach itself provides great foregrounds with the pier stretching out. Sunrise and sunset are prime times for dramatic shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and pier. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details like fishermen or distant seabirds. Don't forget a tripod for low-light photography during sunrise/sunset.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use on the New Brighton Pier. However, commercial photography might require permission. Always be respectful of other visitors.
Expect bright, direct sunlight during the day, which can be harsh. The soft, warm light during golden hour (sunrise and sunset) is ideal for photography. Overcast days can also offer diffused light, good for capturing details.
Drone usage is subject to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules in New Zealand. It's essential to check the latest regulations regarding drone operation in public spaces like beaches and piers before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the beach and pier, the area boasts nearby playgrounds and cafes, making it easy to spend a full day out. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the sand or grab a treat from one of the local eateries. It’s a low-cost, high-enjoyment outing for the whole family.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
Remember to check New Zealand's fishing regulations and ensure you have the necessary licenses. You can typically purchase bait from local shops in the New Brighton area. The pier offers a classic seaside fishing experience with the added bonus of beautiful ocean views.
📸 Photographers
Capture the vastness of the ocean, the textures of the waves, and the silhouettes of fishermen against the colorful sky. The beach offers a different perspective, with opportunities to photograph the coastline, seabirds, and the pier from afar. A wide-angle lens and a tripod are highly recommended for capturing the best of this scenic location.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Reconstruction of New Brighton Pier
Tragically, the pier suffered significant damage during the devastating February 2011 earthquakes that struck Christchurch. The event highlighted the pier's importance to the community and the need for its restoration. Following extensive repairs, which cost approximately $9 million, the pier was fully reopened in 2018, once again becoming a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike.
This reconstruction effort not only restored a physical structure but also symbolized the broader recovery and rebuilding of the Christchurch region. The pier's history is intertwined with the town's development, serving as a focal point for recreation, fishing, and enjoying the coastal scenery. Its enduring presence continues to draw people to the foreshore, offering a place for reflection and connection with the sea.
Experiencing New Brighton Beach
For those seeking adventure, the beach is also a known spot for surfers, though conditions can vary. Beachcombers might find interesting shells and driftwood washed ashore. The overall atmosphere is often described as calm and peaceful, providing a perfect escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you're looking for a quiet moment by the ocean or a place for family fun, New Brighton Beach delivers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit