Come and play in our backyard - you won’t be disappointed!

Here in Christchurch we have Adrenalin fever, so if you’ve got the courage - we have the adventure: rafting, jetboating, skydiving, bungy jumping and heli-biking. In winter, take to the alps with ski or snowboard slopes to suit every level. For more fun and excitement, visit our thriving nightclubs, bars, pubs and restaurants.

Book yourself a spectacular train journey and take in the amazing scenery, including New Zealand’s highest mountain - Aoraki Mt Cook, our longest glacier - the Tasman, Turquoise lakes, natural thermal hot pools, snow capped mountains, sandy beaches, and plenty of unique towns.

North Canterbury

The Alpine Pacific Triangle touring route is a must see region, a backpacker’s playground.

Spend lazy hours at the region’s many vineyards in the acclaimed Waipara Valley before checking out New Zealand’s alpine spa village of Hanmer Springs. Enjoy mountain biking, bungy jumping, 4WD quad bike tours, jet boating and a hagglund ride. There is also an extensive range of accommodation, cafés, restaurants and bars, so something to suit all budgets. 

Also on your list should be a visit to the marine mammals of Kaikoura. Get up close to seals, dolphins, whales and an extensive range of pelagic birds. Enjoy fish and chips on the beach or experience the local delicacy - crayfish.

Ashburton District

Located 75km south of Christchurch, on the rich agricultural patchwork of the Canterbury Plains.

Nearby Mt Hutt skifield in the Southern Alps has the longest season of any New Zealand Skifield, while Lake Hood and its surrounding park have been developed as a vibrant watersports playground. Explore the Rakaia river by jetboat or go Hot Air Ballooning near Methven, close to Mt Hutt.

In Ashburton, visit the historic Plains Vintage Railway and ride on a restored engine. Alternatively, stroll through the Ashburton Craft Village to choose from a multitude of crafts. Choose from farm tours and garden tours, nature tours in the high country, even Lord of the Rings tours; scenic flights and skydiving… take your time to enjoy this friendly rural district!

Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism
Website: www.christchurchnz.com