New Zealand
Christchurch - Canterbury
From the silvery beaches of the coast to the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps, the Canterbury landscape offers some of the most spectacular scenery. The highest point of the region is the highest point of New Zealand. The spectacular Aoraki Mount Cook stands at 3754 metres. At the other end of the scale, the submarine trenches off the coast of Kaikoura are thousands of metres deep, providing an ideal environment for the whales, dolphins and seals that live there permanently. Between the mountains and the sea, the vast plains are patchworked with the patterns of rural life.
The Canterbury region also incorporates the delightful alpine spa resort of Hanmer Springs; the quaint French inspired seaside village of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula; Timaru with its heritage architecture and stunning views over Caroline Bay; the turquoise gemstone hue of Lake Tekapo; the high country area and ski fields near Methven and the farming community of Darfield.
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand, and one of the world’s most unique destinations. Bordered by the Port Hills and the Pacific Ocean, it is situated on the Canterbury Plains with the Southern Alps as a majestic backdrop, allowing for a huge array of experiences all within just a few hours’ drive. Known traditionally as “The Garden City”, the serene Avon River flows through the centre of the city (its banks now largely forming an urban park), and through the award winning Christchurch Botanic Gardens which are 150 years old this year. The gardens feature one of the finest collections of exotic and native plants found in New Zealand, and are home to one of Christchurch’s most iconic activities, Punting on the Avon.
More recently however, Christchurch has been rebuilding and revitalizing itself following the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 and making way for some of the most innovative and creative projects in the world. With a huge emphasis on sustainable and envionmental issues, Christchurch is embracing it’s new future, and is excited about the possibilities of having a chance to reinvent itself with modern buildings and bright urban events. This is a chance to visit a city on the brink of reimagining itself with world class technology and innovation alongside history and heritage.
Christchurch is also known for great dining with a huge choice in cuisine around the city. Local restaurateurs are spoiled for choice with such high quality local wines, and produce, leading to ever changing seasonal menus using local and fresh ingredients.
MUST SEE & DO
- In Christchurch visit the Botanic Gardens and the International Antarctic Centre, ride on the tram and take a punt on the Avon River, then drive up to the Port Hills to admire the view over the city, Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps or visit one of the nearby wineries for lunch and wine tasting
- Visit Akaroa and take a harbour cruise to see the rare hectors dolphins and bird life
- In Kaikoura take a walk on the Peninsula to see the seals, enjoy a Whale Watch tour, swim with the dolphins or join a bird watching cruise
- At Hanmer Springs soak in the soothing mineral waters at the Thermal Pools & Spa, enjoy a jetboating trip or walk to the lookout at Conical Hill
- Stay in the Mt Cook National Park and take a flight over Mt Cook and the region's awesome glaciers, marvel at the stars at the Mt John Observatory and enjoy the numerous walks in the area
Akaroa: Bruce Apartments
Price from £154 per room per night
This waterfront Akaroa accommodation features 2 bedrooms, full kitchen facilities and a honeymoon suite w [...]
More details »Akaroa: Akaroa Village Inn
Price from £76 per room per night
This property is in the heart of the village, situated directly opposite the main wharf, where you can ca [...]
More details »Akaroa: Akaroa Cottages
Price from £125 per room per night
Nestled in New Zealand native bush overlooking Akaroa, the cottages offer a most private and serene holid [...]
More details »Akaroa: Beaufort House
Price from £205 per room per night
Enjoy your stay in this beautiful historic home and garden, lovingly restored with Old World charm, moder [...]
More details »Akaroa: Tresori Motor Lodge
Price from £101 per room per night
This exciting modern complex has a design that reflects the historical nature of Akaroa's French colonial [...]
More details »Akaroa: Annandale Luxury Villas
Price from £1109 per room per night
Set amid a rugged landscape of hills and bays on Banks Peninsula, this historic farm features a restored [...]
More details »Christchurch: The George Hotel
Price from £231 per room per night
The George, a luxury boutique hotel, is the essence of supreme comfort and is renowned for offering a per [...]
More details »Christchurch: Chateau on the Park, A Double Tree Hilton
Price from £106 per room per night
Chateau on the Park - Christchurch, a DoubleTree by Hilton hotel is designed to provide a tranquil, resor [...]
More details »Christchurch: Rydges Latimer
Price from £117 per room per night
Rydges Latimer Christchurch is located just 2 minutes' walking distance from the city’s CBD, is within ea [...]
More details »Christchurch: The Classic Villa
Price from £184 per room per night
An Italian style historic home that has been renovated and tastefully refurbished into one of the finest [...]
More details »Christchurch: Orari Bed & Breakfast
Price from £107 per room per night
This lovely old heritage house has been totally restored and refurbished to its former elegance. Retainin [...]
More details »Christchurch: Otahuna Lodge
Price from £732 per room per night
This lodge is a place of replenishment and refinement, where prestigious luxury accommodation meets exemp [...]
More details »Christchurch: Hotel Montreal by the George
Price from £211 per room per night
Hotel Montreal by The George blends European flair with contemporary style, providing Christchurch with a [...]
More details »Christchurch: Crowne Plaza
Price from £115 per room per night
Located in Central Christchurch just minutes from CBD dining, shopping and entertainment, Crowne Plaza Ch [...]
More details »Hanmer Springs: Heritage Hotel
Price from £103 per room per night
Situated in the glorious alpine setting of Hanmer Springs and just 90 minutes (by car) north of Christchu [...]
More details »Hanmer Springs: The St James
Price from £123 per room per night
Architecturally designed and elegantly furnished suites. Enjoy the tranquility and splendor of Hanmer Spr [...]
More details »Hanmer Springs: Cheltenham House
Price from £132 per room per night
This gracious 1930's home is a thoughtful mix of comfort and traditional elegance in a warm atmosphere of [...]
More details »Hanmer Springs: Select Braemar Lodge & Spa
Price from £183 per room per night
Situated in the foothills of the Southern Alps and surrounded by dramatic hills and mountains, this accom [...]
More details »Kaikoura: White Morph Motor Inn
Price from £129 per room per night
White Morph Motor Inn offers glorious ocean and mountain views. It is located on the waterfront, just 10 [...]
More details »Kaikoura: Hapuku Lodge
Price from £411 per room per night
This complex was designed to be a contemporary country hotel. Much of the lodge is built of natural produ [...]
More details »Kaikoura: Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
Price from £98 per room per night
Motel style accommodation with contemporary interior design. Situated right on the waterfront, it is jus [...]
More details »Kaikoura: Lemon Tree Lodge
Price from £123 per room per night
Offering a high standard of accommodation in a secluded retreat, the lodge was set up to cater purely for [...]
More details »Kaikoura: The Hamptons B&B
Price from £126 per room per night
The Hampton's is a family-owned and operated boutique bed & breakfast set in a quiet, convenient seas [...]
More details »Kaikoura: Waves on the Esplanade
Price from £148 per room per night
A high quality self-catering seaside apartment complex that offers the ideal combination of lifestyle, lo [...]
More details »Lake Tekapo: Lake Tekapo Lodge
Price from £259 per room per night
The Lodge is sited above the village of Tekapo and offers grand views to the lake and mountains.
More details »Lake Tekapo: Peppers Bluewater Resort
Price from £127 per room per night
The resort's architectural design is a reflection of the Mackenzie Basin landscape and offers the perfect [...]
More details »Lake Tekapo: Three Rivers Lodge
Price from £145 per room per night
Three Rivers Lodge is a modern, purpose built accommodation located 1.5km or 2 minute drive from Tekapo v [...]
More details »Mt Cook: The Hermitage
Price from £97 per room per night
This hotel has long been synonymous with the Kiwi spirit of adventure. First built in 1884 its history is [...]
More details »Mt Cook: Aoraki Court Motel
Price from £115 per room per night
Aoraki Court Motel provides luxury accommodation within the Aoraki/Mt Cook Village. Each motel unit has s [...]
More details »Twizel: Skyscape
Price from £297 per room per night
Experience the wild beauty of New Zealand's Mackenzie Country. This distinctive accommodation is designed [...]
More details »Twizel: Lake Ohau Lodge
Price from £129 per room per night
This small family run business incorporating both the Lake Ohau Lodge (72 rooms) and Ohau Snow Fields has [...]
More details »Twizel: Matuka Lodge
Price from £354 per room per night
Matuka Lodge set in secluded surroundings only 3.5 kilometres from the lifestyle town of Twizel, gateway [...]
More details »Akaroa Day Tour
Price from £109 per person
A Canterbury Leisure Tours vehicle will pick you up from your hotel for your transfer to the departure po [...]
More details »Akaroa Day Tour including Harbour Cruise
Price from £115 per person
A Canterbury Leisure Tours vehicle will pick you up from your hotel to commence a full day Akaroa Day Tou [...]
More details »Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise
Price from £38 per person
Board your Black Cat vessel at Main Wharf, Akaroa, to commence a two hour cruise around Akaroa Harbour. E [...]
More details »Albatross Encounter
Price from £61 per person
Join your Encounter Kaikoura crew at 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura and board your Encounter Kaikoura vessel to c [...]
More details »Banks Peninsula Walk
Price from £115 per person
The four day walk is simply one of New Zealand's great walking holidays. It gives you the time to hike th [...]
More details »Big Sky Stargazing - Aoraki Mount Cook
Price from £32 per person
Join your Big Sky Stargazing guide at The Hermitage Activities Desk, Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Mount Cook V [...]
More details »Caterpiller Botanic Garden Tour
Price from £9 per person
The Caterpillar Botanic Gardens Tour departs from the Canterbury Museum entrance of the Botanic Gardens o [...]
More details »Christchurch Gondola
Price from £13 per person
Board your gondola transport at the Christchurch Gondola base. In the comfort of our four person luxury [...]
More details »Christchurch Tramway Grand Tour
Price from £41 per person
Board a luxury coach for an interactive and fun guided tour of Christchurch. Enjoy the best Christchurch [...]
More details »Discover Christchurch Double Decker Tour
Price from £35 per person
This fun and informative tour of Christchurch allows passengers to learn about Christchurch’s fascinating [...]
More details »Discover Christchurch Half Day Tour
Price from £36 per person
Morning and Afternoon departures available. The tour commences in the central city of Christchurch and co [...]
More details »Dolphin Encounter - Spectator
Price from £48 per person
For those wishing to enhance their understanding of dolphins in their natural environment, this is a trul [...]
More details »Dolphin Encounter - Swimmer
Price from £90 per person
Board your Encounter Kaikoura vessel to commence a Dolphin Encounter – Swimmer cruise. While spending bet [...]
More details »Glacier Boat Cruise
Price from £77 per person
Join your Glacier Explorers vehicle at The Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Mount Cook Village, Mount Cook Nationa [...]
More details »Glacier Highlights Ski Plane Tour
Price from £225 per person
A Mount Cook Ski Planes vehicle will pick you up from the Hermitage Hotel, the YHA or the DOC Visitor Cen [...]
More details »Grand Circle Ski Plane Tour
Price from £296 per person
A Mount Cook Ski Planes vehicle will pick you up from the Hermitage Hotel, the YHA or the DOC Visitor Cen [...]
More details »Grand Traverse of Mount Cook - Inter Airport Option
Price from £198 per person
This unique flight encompasses the Aoraki Mount Cook and Westland Tai Poutini National Parks, traversing [...]
More details »Hamner Springs Thermal Pools & Spa
Price from £19 per person
Set in an alpine village, this facility offers a range of open air thermal pools, large family activity p [...]
More details »Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa
Price from £11 per person
Set in an alpine village, this facility offers a range of open air thermal pools, large family activity p [...]
More details »Hooker Valley Guided Walk
Price from £58 per person
An Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Village Ltd vehicle will pick you up from The Hermitage Activities Desk at Th [...]
More details »Hot Air Ballooning
Price from £185 per person
For a truly "out of this world" experience, enjoy a hot air balloon flight across the rolling green Cante [...]
More details »Hot Air Ballooning ex Christchurch
Price from £204 per person
Before day break join your Aoraki Balloon Safaris crew to commence a full day Hot Air Ballooning tour. Ex [...]
More details »International Antarctic Centre
Price from £19 per person
The Aquarium displays some of the actual specimens from the Antarctic ocean floor in McMurdo Sound, while [...]
More details »Kaikoura Whale Watching Tour
Price from £156 per person
Depart Christchurch and travel north through the rural pastoral scenes of North Canterbury towards Kaikou [...]
More details »Kaikoura Wilderness Guided Walk
Price from £837 per person
A Kaikoura Wilderness Walks vehicle will pick you up from your hotel for your transfer via a very scenic [...]
More details »Kaikoura Wilderness Walkway
Price from £613 per person
Kaikoura Wilderness Walks takes you on an exclusive guided walk, at a gentle pace, through the Puhi Peaks [...]
More details »Lord of the Rings Edoras Tour
Price from £125 per person
From Christchurch travel by 4WD to remote Mt Sunday on Mt Potts High Country Station, the location of Edo [...]
More details »Maori Tours Kaikoura Cultural Experience
Price from £64 per person
This tour gives an appreciation and understanding of Maori ways. Participants will visit sites of pre-Eur [...]
More details »Mountain High Helicopter Tour
Price from £225 per person
Join your Helicopter Line crew at Glentanner Park to commence a Mountain High helicopter tour. This is a [...]
More details »Mt John Night Tour - Dark Sky Stargazing
Price from £71 per person
From Lake Tekapo Village, with 'Earth & Sky', you will travel up to Mt John and gaze at the skies fro [...]
More details »Open Top Double Decker City Highlights
Price from £15 per person
This fun and informative tour of Christchurch allows passengers to learn about Christchurch’s fascinating [...]
More details »Punting on the Avon
Price from £13 per person
Join your Punt at the historic Antigua Boatsheds, Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch, to commence a classic [...]
More details »Self Drive: 11 nights Christchurch to Christchurch
Price from £1615 per person
This self drive New Zealand South Island tour includes 11 days' Toyota Corolla (CDMR) car rental with Bud [...]
More details »Self Drive: 15 nights Christchurch to Christchurch
Price from £2149 per person
This New Zealand self-drive tour of the South Island includes 16 days' Toyota Corolla (CDMR) car rental w [...]
More details »Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
Price from £11 per person
The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is situated at the Hermitage Hotel, Terrace Road, Aoraki Mount Cook [...]
More details »Swim with Dolphins
Price from £77 per person
Board your Black Cat vessel at Main Wharf, Akaroa to commence a three hour cruise around Akaroa Harbour, [...]
More details »Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake Excursion
Price from £72 per person
An amazing up close encounter with New Zealand's largest glacier, the Tasman Glacier.Explore the fascinat [...]
More details »Tasman Valley 4WD & Argo Tour
Price from £40 per person
Join your Tasman Valley 4WD & Argo Tours vehicle at The Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Mount Cook Village, M [...]
More details »The Grand Traverse of Mount Cook ex Glentanner Park
Price from £198 per person
Join your flight crew at the Glentanner Air Safaris office, Glentanner Park Centre, 15 minutes south of M [...]
More details »Thrillseekers Canyon Jetboat Adventure
Price from £58 per person
Jet the entire length of the spectacular Waiau Gorge following the contours of the steep canyon walls dur [...]
More details »TranzAlpine & High Country Explorer Tour
Price from £204 per person
This is New Zealand’s only one-day adventure consisting of a seamless journey by 4 modes of transport – T [...]
More details »Whale Watch Tour
Price from £74 per person
Experience a Whale Watch tour for an exciting up-close encounter with Kaikoura's resident Giant Sperm Wha [...]
More details »Wings over Whales
Price from £95 per person
On a typical flight see the majestic Sperm Whale preparing for his next dive and up to 500 Dusky Dolphins [...]
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