Christchurch & Canterbury, something for everyone
Christchurch & Canterbury
A land of plains and peaks
From lush vineyards and wild coastlines to sky-piercing mountains and pristine glacial lakes, Canterbury is a region of striking contrasts and a haven for those seeking unforgettable scenery and adventure. From Ōtautahi Christchurch, the sparkling Pacific Ocean, the majestic Southern Alps and an ancient volcanic peninsula are all within easy reach.
Travel through the Southern Alps by train, marvel at the brilliance of the night sky in the world’s largest International Dark Sky Reserve, or encounter some of nature’s most extraordinary sea creatures in Kaikōura by boat, plane or helicopter. Here, you may witness giant sperm whales, pilot whales, orca and humpbacks as they move through the deep offshore waters.
Unwind in rejuvenating hot pools from New Brighton to Hanmer Springs to Methven, or explore the charming townships, boutique galleries and hidden bays of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula. Savour the flavours of North Canterbury’s celebrated wine region, where vineyards flourish between rolling hills and ocean breezes.
Further inland, the Mackenzie district and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park reveal a landscape of magical turquoise lakes, ancient glaciers and the commanding presence of New Zealand’s highest peaks.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Arthur’s Pass on a rail journey that begins in Christchurch and traverses braided rivers, snow-fed lakes and some of the country’s most dramatic alpine terrain.
Why we love it
- Epic Landscapes – Southern Alps, glacial lakes, wild coasts, and vineyards.
- Adventure & Wildlife – Whale watching, alpine trails, and rail journeys through dramatic terrain.
- Relaxation & Culture – Hot pools, charming towns, boutique galleries, and world-class wines
Our favourite activities
- Arthur’s Pass – TranzAlpine Train – Canterbury Trails Small group tour including the infamous TranzAlpine train.
- Kai Bites – Amiki Cultural Food Tours Discover city secrets with a local Māori guide, food and lunch.
- Christchurch – Wine & City Tour – Canterbury Trails City sightseeing and Waipara region including winery visits and lunch.
- Big Sky Stargazing – The Hermitage Discover the cosmos under pristine skies with Big Sky stargazing.
- Glacier Explorer – The Hermitage A unique boat tour on Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake to view icebergs.
Christchurch / Otautahi
Located on a level plain, Christchurch is defined by its historic past and vibrant future. The willow and oak-lined River Avon meanders through its heart, where you can enjoy a punt ride or explore the sprawling Botanic Gardens. Much of the city’s unique charm comes from its blend of old and new; elegant stone buildings sit alongside striking contemporary architecture. Following a series of earthquakes, the city has been thoughtfully and creatively rebuilt, resulting in innovative new spaces like the Transitional Cathedral and Margaret Mahy Playground. This spirit of renewal makes Christchurch an exciting hub for arts, culture, and dining, while its proximity to both the stunning Canterbury Plains and the volcanic Port Hills offers easy access to outdoor adventures.
Kaikoura / Te Taumanu O Te Waka A Maui
Te Taumanu O Te Waka A Maui means “to eat crayfish”, from the Maori words “Kai” meaning food, and Koura meaning crayfish. You can savour crayfish here in Kaikoura, view whales and dolphins at play, or visit local galleries and craft shops, or take a walk along the Peninsula Walkway. If you travel out onto the Kaikoura Peninsula and look back towards the mountains, an amazing tableau will appear before you. The seaward Kaikoura Range appears to rise from the sea, with the snow-capped Southern Alps as a backdrop.
Lake Tekapo / Takapō
Located in the Mackenzie country, with fantastic views of the surrounding Alps. The Lake’s unusual turquoise colour is given by fine rock-flour, which is dust ground by glacial movement and held in suspension by the Lake’s waters. The Lake is also well known for its brown and rainbow trout.
Mount Cook / Aoraki
Mount Cook / Aoraki whose Māori name “Aorangi” means “Cloud Piercer” is some 3753.5 metres high and surrounded by a host of massive peaks. Mount Cook is New Zealand’s highest mountain, and can quite often be surrounded by cloud, constantly vulnerable to the fast changing weather patterns of an alpine climate.
Twizel / McKenzie Country
Twizel also traditionally known as the Mackenzie Country, is a roughly elliptical shaped basin that is surrounded by mountain ranges. It is located near the geographical centre of the South Island of New Zealand and is regarded as a typical representative of New Zealand’s “High Country”. The basin covers about 100 km north-south direction and about 40 km from east to west. The majority of the Mackenzie Basin is located in the Canterbury region and also to a small extent in the south on the Waitaki River in Otago. The main townships in the Mackenzie Basin are Lake Tekapo, population under 500, Twizel, with a population of 1,100 and Omarama with less than 400 residents. The surrounding area boasts glacial lakes and snow-capped mountain peaks, which are particularly popular with tourists and skiers. The Mackenzie Basin is often used as a location for film productions, including Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings.
Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs is a small town in the Canterbury region of the South Island of New Zealand. It is located inland, 65 kilometres southwest from Kaikoura, on a minor road 10 kilometres north of State Highway 7, the northern route between Christchurch and the West Coast via Lewis Pass. The town is built around a popular hot springs which was discovered in the late 19th century. The hot springs; Hanmer Springs Thermal Springs were produced as a result of the fractured rock bed along the Hanmer fault. The town has a scenic airline to show off its alpine surroundings, as well as a variety of adventure activities such as bungy jumping, mountain biking and bush walks.
We are here to help you plan the best trip of New Zealand. We are based in New Zealand and have traveled the length and breath of both islands. With our knowledge and expertise we can help you plan a tour without any stress. Reach out and chat with our team. We can’t wait to start planning your New Zealand trip with you.
