See & Do

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).