From the silvery beaches of the Pacific Ocean coastline to the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps, the Canterbury landscape is impossible to ignore. Try whale watching or an iceberg cruise and take time to explore this global wine capital, a volcanic peninsula, alpine villages and natural thermal pools.
Float above the plains in a hot air balloon or soak in relaxing thermal pools. Enjoy the excellent food and wine or visit the amazing coastline and view the extensive marine life. And all only a three hour direct flight away.
From the silvery beaches of the Pacific Ocean coastline to the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps, the Canterbury landscape is impossible to ignore. Try whale watching or an iceberg cruise and take time to explore this global wine capital, a volcanic peninsula, alpine villages and natural thermal pools.
Browse our collection of images to see what the region has to offer:
From Ocean to Alps
Christchurch and Canterbury has an Ocean to Alps backdrop - spectacular Pacific coastline, snow-capped mountains to the west and the hidden bays of an ancient volcanic peninsula to the south.
It is one of the only places in the world where, within two hours of an international airport, you can ski at a world class alpine resort, play golf, bungy jump, go rafting, mountain biking, wind surfing, whale watching and visit world-class vineyards and gardens.
Regional highlights include New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki Mount Cook, the picturesque bays and seaside villages of Banks Peninsula, whale watching in the leading eco-tourism destination of Kaikoura, relaxing in the hot pools of Hanmer Springs and hiking in Arthurs Pass National Park.
Christchurch City - "The Garden City" - has a truly relaxed pace and heritage heart (the Arts Centre’s neo-gothic architecture and central Cathedral Square), sophistication (a labyrinth of laneways and world-class dining on your doorstep), and a sense of adventure (surf beaches and mountain bike tracks within 15 minutes of the city centre).
Key Features
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park This park is a land of ice and rock. Glaciers cover 40% of its area and there are 19 peaks over 3,000 metres, including New Zealand's highest mountain Aoraki Mount Cook. Mount Cook Village is a base for climbers and hikers.
Alpine Pacific Triangle Touring Route
The Alpine Pacific Triangle takes you to the gourmet area of Waipara, spa delights of Hanmer Springs and marine mammals of Kaikoura. Between destinations, enjoy the beautiful country scenery.
Akaroa and Banks Peninsula
Banks Peninsula and Akaroa Harbour were formed by volcanic eruptions, many thousands of years ago. Originally a French settlement, the historic town of Akaroa is a place to enjoy fine cuisine and wildlife cruises.
Key Tips
Christchurch international airport receives flights from Australia, Asia, the UK and the USA, providing a convenient gateway to South Island destinations.
Comfortable driving distances let you pack more into your holiday. In Canterbury it’s possible to go surfing and skiing on the same day!
Mount Hutt is usually the first New Zealand ski field to open and the last to close. Snowmakers keep the slopes in top shape.
The city of Timaru has a domestic airport. Flights arrive daily from Wellington.
Use Christchurch as your base. The best day trips in the region include Kaikoura, Akaroa, Mount Cook or Arthurs Pass.
Related Links
www.newzealand.com Pages
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Christchurch Airport Christchurch airport is the South Island's largest. Find out about its facilities and transport options from the airport to the city.
Skiing in New Zealand With four key ski areas there is plenty of variation for the keen skier or snowboarder.
Other Sites
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Backpack Canterbury Adrenaline pumping information on backpacker accommodation, activities and transport options in Canterbury.
Look for beautiful Lake Heron in The Two Towers.
Seasonal Tips
DURING YOUR VISIT
Canterbury enjoys a weather phenomenon called the ‘Nor’ West Arch’. Warm, northwesterly winds streak clouds into an archway across the sky, and the temperatures soar.
At Aoraki Mount Cook, you can hike the mountain trails and explore the glaciers by boat.
In South Canterbury, relax by the sea at Caroline Bay and enjoy the scent of the rose gardens.
Mountain bikers are zooming along the trails around Hanmer Springs.
Eco tours are introducing travellers to marine mammals in Kaikoura and Akaroa.
