Canterbury Region - Places To Go

The Alpine Pacific Triangle takes you from Christchurch to Kaikōura, to Hanmer Springs and back again. Enjoy whale watching, hot pools and wineries. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Food and drink

Geraldine: tasty town

The South Canterbury town of Geraldine is home to some of New Zealand’s most successful food producers. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Get outdoors

Akaroa Marine Reserve

Akaroa is a very special place, visited by the world’s smallest dolphin, the Hector’s dolphin. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Get outdoors

Pōhatu Marine Reserve

Many of New Zealand’s most charismatic marine animals hang out at Pōhatu Marine Reserve on Banks Peninsula, home to both penguin and seal colonies. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Things to do

Arthur’s Pass National Park: over the backbone

The high mountains of Arthur’s Pass National Park are the ‘backbone’ of the South Island and the pass itself is the key link between east and west. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Walking

Aoraki Mount Cook Village walks

There are several fantastic walks around the village that provide views of Aoraki Mount Cook and the surrounding native alpine bush. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Get outdoors

Loved by the locals: Banks Peninsula

Do what the locals do in Banks Peninsula. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Walking

Taylors Mistake to Awaroa Godley Head Walk

Explore Godley Head's fascinating history and get great views of Lyttelton on this family-friendly walkway. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Walking

Tasman Glacier walking tracks

The Tasman Glacier, 29km long and up to 3km wide, can be viewed from the short walks that start at the Blue Lakes Shelter. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Activities

Climbing is the unique blend of physical and mental exertion that leads both to a feeling of accomplishment and a sense of calm. All in some of the most breathtaking landscapes in New Zealand. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Food and drink

Street food and markets: around the world in New Zealand

From bacon butties in Dunedin to dumpling and donuts in Auckland or fresh veges on Wellington's windy waterfront, New Zealand's food markets are a great way to eat. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Road trips

The Great Alpine Highway: Christchurch to Greymouth

This is probably the most staggering piece of road you'll ever come across. So keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes off the pies. Just stop often. Seriously: this is stunning. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Road trips

Inland Scenic Route 72: Christchurch loop

Round trips are immensely satisfying. There’s a pleasing symmetry in ending up back where you started, a closing of the loop, a real sense of achievement. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Things to do

Our marine reserves: treasures under the sea

In essence, the very simple overriding edict for a marine reserve is no take. Nothing may be removed: not fish, not seaweed, not stones, not feathers or shells off the beach. Read the story . . .

Find out more

Get outdoors