Both scientific and emotionally moving. The accounts from the survivors may cause nightmares among some kids, possibly adults as well. There is a liquefaction simulator that is really interesting from a scientific point of view. Def worth a visit.
I’d definitely make this your first stop in Christchurch! It is an eye-opening experience on the earthquake history of the city. The city risen from its ashes like the Phoenix! It definitely gives you a deep appreciation for the time, money and effort the New Zealand people have put back into their community. We really enjoyed our chat with the curator and over all experience!
I was in Christchurch in August 2025, visiting from Wellington, this has been my first time visiting since the big earthquake, I knew and remembered how bad things were down here. But walking through Quake city really opened my eyes even more, the videos I watched and and so many pictures I came across, things were so much more worst down there, I’m really glad I made my way in here it’s a awesome place of history !!! Also Christchurch has come a long way since the earthquake,it’s awesome city
Quake City is very well organised and set up to provide stories, new clips and interactive displays for the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury Earthquakes. There is plenty of emotion and plenty of learning in each display and the shear size of destruction is astounding. As a geotechnical engineer, the soil liquefaction displays were incredible!
A must place to visit. The walk through story of the big 2020 and 2011 quakes are very well documented. All the staff were very informative and welcoming.
Happen to be a free entry once a year during our short visit. It is touching to listen to the testimony of some of those who have gone through the unforgettable experience. It’s a place for us to ponder a little deeper about what life’s is all about.
Small but interesting museum covering the two earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 which changed the direction of Christchurch. Highlights included the interactive exhibits and video interviews with residents who were there at the time. Would definitely recommend a visit to learn about this period in the city's history.
Expected to spend 20 minutes in Quake City but it was well over an hour! So much information available and in easily digestible format including video and hands-on demonstrations.
Loved this museum, after staying at an Airbnb in Kaipoi and hearing the hosts stories about the earthquakes in Christchurch and their suggestion to visit this location to learn more I was sold. There is a cost to attend, about $20 per person. In one area, a movie plays that shares the lived experiences of a number of survivors of the earthquake, with their direct experience being in the earthquake(s). Inspiring and gut wrenching at the same time, it is beautiful to hear their stories of human experience and survival.
Interesting. Great experience going on the tram. Worth the money as you get to hear about christchurch. Visit the old cathedral. A must visit is the earthquake museum, heart breaking.
Quake City is located at 299 Durham Street North, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
You can contact Quake City at +64 3 365 8375
You can find directions to Quake City by following this map link
468 Mandeville Road, Ohoka 7692, New Zealand
30 Durey Road, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch 8053, New Zealand
617 Colombo Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
49 Staveley Street, Avonhead, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
10 Wycola Avenue, Hei Hei, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand
146 Hawthornden Road, Avonhead, Christchurch 8042, New Zealand