Canterbury is a region of contrasts. Its home to rugged alps and ranges, flat green plains, silvery beaches and fresh blue lakes.
The largely English influenced Christchurch features traditional and contemporary architecture, lush gardens and the gently winding Avon River. Further afield, explore the various walks around New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Mount Cook.
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and combined with the scenic Canterbury region there is plenty to suit all types of travellers.
Visit four of Christchurch’s iconic attractions with the Christchurch Pass: Take the Gondola to the top of Port Hills for magnificent views over the city and Banks Peninsula; Explore the Botanic Gardens; Travel around the city on the historic tram; Enjoy a leisurely float down the Avon River on a guided punt ride.
Visit Quake City to hear the stories of heroism, hope and loss of the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Learn about liquefaction and appreciate the resilience of the local communities.
A fun tourist attraction for Families is the International Antarctic Centre. Meet the penguins, experience an Antarctic storm and ride an all-terrain vehicle during a 4D movie.
Christchurch’s inner-city café, bar and restaurant scene is diverse with something for everyone to enjoy.
Nearby Akaroa and Banks Peninsula is only a short drive from Christchurch. There are local cruises, opportunities to swim with dolphins and some beautiful walks.
Spend a day in Lyttelton. Dine at the cafes, wander the shops, soak up the atmosphere of local artists and buskers. Drive up to the hills for magnificent views and scenic walking tracks.
Add a magical experience to your holiday with a hot air balloon ride over Canterbury.
Only 90 minutes drive from Christchurch, it is worth staying two or three nights at Hanmer Springs. Enjoy the relaxing and fun Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa that all visitors must experience. With 15 outdoor pools, featuring a mixture of mineral, sulphur and freshwater pools and activity areas including waterslides.
For the adventurous, options include: Alpine rafting, Jet the Gorge, Horse Safaris, jeep tours, bungy jump and quad biking to name a few of the many options.
There a beautiful walks and cycle trails for all abilities in the surrounding areas. Other Hanmer activities include a selection of golf courses; Hunting and fly fishing; Winter Skiing and Snowboarding; Finally will enjoy the quality cafes, restaurants and boutique wine region.
As I’ve outlined, there are plenty of options to consider when planning a holiday to Christchurch and the Canterbury region.
See:
- Be on the lookout for Sperm, Humpback and Pilot whales in Kaikoura
Do:
- Ride through Mount Cook National Park alongside glacial-fed lakes
- Hop aboard the TranzAlpine Express and travel from Christchurch to Greymouth – one of the most stunning train journeys in the world
- See the city of Christchurch from a different perspective aboard a punt boat on the Avon River
Contact our team of helloworld Travel Professionals to book your next New Zealand Travel Adventure.