4 Days 453 km

Highlights

  • French colonial Akaroa
  • TranzAlpine train
  • Funky Christchurch

Proximity

CAR-FREE TRAVEL OPTIONS

Canterbury is a region of spectacular beauty, from the tranquil coastline of Banks Peninsula to the majestic grandeur of the Southern Alps.

Travel from the sea to the mountains and discover the funky city of Christchurch, the historic French settlement of Akaroa, and the stunning mountain village of Arthur’s Pass National Park.

Day 1: Christchurch to Akaroa

Christchurch - Canterbury
Lyttelton Market, Christchurch - Canterbury

Highlights

  • Lyttelton Farmers Market
  • French heritage & colonial architecture
  • Akaroa harbour cruises

Proximity

EXPLORE AKAROA

The most French town in New Zealand.

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Travel through the tunnel to Lyttelton, a port town filled with quirky bars, community projects and a popular Saturday farmer's market. From here the coastal road goes through Governors Bay and on to Charteris Bay Road. Take time to visit the shops and villages you pass along the way. Chocolate lovers will enjoy She Universe Cafe(opens in new window), known for their chocolate creations.

French flair permeates Akaroa village. Street names, restaurants and colourful characters all reflect the town's early French history. Visit the museum and beautifully restored cottages to learn more about this unique settlement.

Day 2: Akaroa to Christchurch

Christchurch - Canterbury
Black Cat Cruises, Akaroa, Christchurch - Canterbury
christchurch-canterbury

CANTERBURY

Innovation, culture and exhilarating activity

Highlights

  • Swimming with dolphins
  • Pohatu Penguin safaris
  • The Giant's House

Proximity

Along with its French culture, Akaroa is also a great place to encounter dolphins, penguins, and fur seals. Board a nature cruise and meet some of New Zealand's native marine animals. Some cruises will take you swimming with Hector's dolphins, the smallest dolphins in the world.

For something uniquely Akaroa, head up the hill to The Giant's House(opens in new window) where terraced gardens with sculptures and mosaics are a creative feast.

The main road back to Christchurch takes you through Little River. This charming town, with its small art gallery and cafe, is the perfect place to stop for lunch.

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Day 3: Day trip to Arthur's Pass

Christchurch - Canterbury
TranzAlpine, Christchurch - Canterbury

Highlights

  • Native forest and birdlife
  • Walking and hiking trails
  • Devil's Punchbowl

Proximity

  • by car:

    4 h 5 min | via SH73 (Rtn.)

  • by train:

    5 h (Rtn.) | by TranzAlpine

ARTHUR'S PASS NATIONAL PARK

Explore the highest pass over the Southern Alps.

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The TranzAlpine is one of the world’s most spectacular short train journeys. From Christchurch, travel west through the expanse of the Canterbury plains and into the foothills of the Southern Alps. Watch the landscape change as you journey over braided rivers and past picturesque lakes to Arthur's Pass National Park.

Arthur's Pass village is a hub for hiking trails. Stop for lunch and enjoy one of the many short walks before re-joining the train as it heads back to Christchurch. 

Alternatively, take the full TranzAlpine journey through the Otira Gorge, to Greymouth. Here the train stops for just over for an hour, before heading back to Christchurch, enough time to look around.

Day 4: Spend the day in Christchurch

Christchurch - Canterbury
Street art, Christchurch, Christchurch - Canterbury

Highlights

  • Street Art
  • Funky bars and cafes
  • Museums and art galleries

TOP EXPERIENCES IN CHRISTCHURCH

Enjoy relaxed natural environment and thrilling adventure activities.

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Spend your final day exploring Christchurch, the South Island's largest city.

There are plenty of ways to discover the city, catch a heritage tram, hire a bike and cycle around the city centre, or meander down the Avon River aboard an old-fashioned punt. At the city's heart, the botanical gardens and Hagley Park are great for a gentle stroll. For more action, head up to the Port Hills and ride the Crater Rim cycle trail. Christchurch is also a great place for scenic flights whether it's from a helicopter or a Hot air balloon.

Alternatively, spend the day checking out the city's many shopping boutiques and eating precincts.

View the route below

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