Things to do in Canterbury

Why Visit Canterbury?

Canterbury is one of New Zealand’s most diverse travel regions. Located in the central South Island, Canterbury stretches from the Pacific Ocean across the fertile Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps, a region where visitors can experience a remarkable variety of landscapes and activities within a single journey.
 
The region is home to Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island and a popular gateway for exploring further afield. From here, travellers can discover the volcanic harbour scenery and French heritage of Akaroa, encounter incredible marine life around Kaikōura, relax in the natural hot pools of Hanmer Springs, explore the coastal landscapes of Timaru, or travel into the spectacular alpine environment of Aoraki / Mt Cook.
 
Canterbury is a destination for travellers seeking adventure, nature, culture, and unforgettable scenery. The region offers opportunities for walking and hiking, scenic flights, group tours & excursions and some of New Zealand’s best stargazing locations at Lake Tekapo.
 
The Canterbury region is the best place to add on any road trip. Each city you go to offers a balance of iconic attractions and local experiences that make it one of the most rewarding regions to visit in New Zealand.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Canterbury?

Canterbury offers an impressive range of activities and attractions, from marine adventures and alpine experiences to cultural discoveries and scenic journeys.
 
Along the coast, Kaikōura is one of New Zealand’s premier destinations for marine experiences. The deep underwater canyon offshore creates a unique environment where visitors can enjoy whale and dolphin watching, nature and wildlife experiences, and unforgettable encounters with the ocean environment.
 
In Akaroa, visitors can head out onto the beautiful volcanic harbour on cruises, sailing trips, boating adventures, and wildlife tours, with the chance to swim with one of the world's rarest dolphins and encounter New Zealand's little blue penguins up close in their natural habitat. 

The Southern Alps provide some of Canterbury’s most spectacular experiences. Around Mt Cook, visitors can explore National Parks, walk through incredible alpine landscapes, discover ancient ice formations through glaciers, and experience the region from above with Air and Scenic Flights. The area is also one of New Zealand’s best destinations for Stargazing.
 
For outdoor enthusiasts, Canterbury offers a wide variety of adventure experiences, from hot air ballooning and small boat adventures to unforgettable wildlife encounters. Visitors can also relax and recharge at Hanmer Springs with natural thermal pools and wellness experiences, or take on the ultimate adrenaline rush with bungee jumping and jet boating for those seeking a little more adventure. 

Explore Canterbury and the Surrounding Areas

Each part of Canterbury has its own unique character, making the region ideal for both short visits and longer South Island itineraries.
 
Christchurch is the main gateway to Canterbury and combines heritage, gardens, culture, food, and modern city attractions. From here, travellers can easily explore the wider region, including the seaside village of Akaroa, the coastal wildlife destination of Kaikōura, and the alpine landscapes surrounding Mt Cook. Inland, Hanmer Springs provides a relaxing alpine escape surrounded by forests and mountains.
.
The wide-open landscapes of the Canterbury Plains form the agricultural heart of the region, offering scenic drives and a connection between Christchurch and the Southern Alps. Further south, Timaru provides a coastal stop with beaches, heritage attractions, and access to the wider South Island.
 
The journey into the mountains leads past Lake Tekapo to Mt Cook, where visitors can view New Zealand’s highest peaks and experience amazing starlit dark skies at night. The region also connects naturally with neighbouring destinations including Queenstown, West Coast, and Southland, making Canterbury an important part of many South Island road trips.

Where Is Canterbury and How Do I Get There?

Canterbury is located in the central South Island of New Zealand and is one of the easiest regions to access for travellers exploring the country. The main gateway is Christchurch, which is home to Christchurch International Airport and provides excellent connections for both domestic and international visitors.
 
Many travellers begin their Canterbury journey in Christchurch before exploring the surrounding destinations by car. Akaroa is an easy day trip from the city, while Hanmer Springs, Kaikōura, Lake Tekapo and Mt Cook are popular additions to South Island road trip itineraries.
 
The region is connected by well-maintained highways, with scenic routes leading from the coastline across the Canterbury Plains and into the Southern Alps. Travellers can experience some of New Zealand’s most impressive landscapes while driving between destinations, with opportunities to stop at lakes, viewpoints, walking tracks, and attractions along the way.
 
Canterbury is also home to one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, the TranzAlpine, which connects Christchurch with the West Coast through the Southern Alps. Many visitors combine Canterbury with nearby regions including Marlborough, West Coast, Queenstown, Wanaka and Dunedin to create a complete South Island adventure.

Local Tips and Interesting Facts About Canterbury

Canterbury is a region of remarkable contrasts, from the flat agricultural landscapes of the Canterbury Plains to the towering mountains of the Southern Alps. The region is home to Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain, and the surrounding National Parks showcase some of the country’s most spectacular alpine scenery.
 
The area around Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo is also part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the world’s largest dark sky reserves and one of New Zealand’s best locations for stargazing. Clear skies, low light pollution, and dramatic mountain surroundings create exceptional conditions for viewing the night sky.
 
Off the coast, Kaikōura has gained international recognition for its marine environment. The underwater canyon close to the coastline creates nutrient-rich waters that attract whales, dolphins, seals, and seabirds throughout the year, making it one of New Zealand’s most important locations for nature and wildlife experiences.
 
Visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially when travelling into alpine areas. Mountain weather can change quickly, and conditions can vary significantly between coastal areas, plains, and high country locations. Canterbury is a top destination worth exploring with the most varied travel experiences in New Zealand, there is so much opportunity to create unforgettable memories.

Top fun activities in Canterbury

Dolphin Encounter: Swim with or watch Kaikoura's Dusky Dolphins: Kaikoura is known for its population of dusky dolphins, a unique opportunity to swim or watch them up close in the wild. You'll have the opportunity to see these playful and curious creatures in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation.

Seal Kayak Tour: This is a unique way to explore the Kaikoura coast by kayak. You'll paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the Kaikoura Peninsula, taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife of the region, including seals and other marine mammals.

Daves Diving Kaikoura: For those who love diving, Kaikoura offers an unforgettable experience with its clear waters and rich marine life. You can dive in the kelp forest, swim with seals and dolphins, and see the colorful fish and invertebrates of the region

Skydiving Kiwis Ōtautahi: Experience the thrill of skydiving over the beautiful landscapes of Canterbury. You'll get an incredible view of the region as you free-fall and then enjoy a peaceful parachute ride back to the ground.

Jetboat Ride Hanmer Springs: Enjoy a thrilling jetboat ride through the Hanmer Springs. You'll see the beautiful scenery of the region and experience the exhilaration of high-speed jetboating. The ride will take you through the narrow canyons and rapids of the river, making it a thrilling and exciting experience for the whole family.

The best things to do with kids and children’s activities in Canterbury

Evening Penguin Safari: This is a fun and educational experience for kids where they can see the little penguins coming ashore to their nesting colonies. They'll learn about the conservation efforts to protect these adorable birds and get to see them in their natural habitat.

Dolphin Encounter: Swim with or watch Kaikoura's Dusky Dolphins: This is a unique opportunity for kids to see and learn about the playful and curious dusky dolphins in their natural habitat. It's a great way to introduce them to marine conservation and the importance of protecting these amazing creatures.

Shamarra Alpacas: This is a fun and interactive experience for kids where they can meet and learn about alpacas. They can feed and pet the alpacas and learn about their care and behavior.

Kaikōura Helicopters: Classic Whale Watch: This is a great way for kids to see the giant Sperm Whales and other marine life up close. They'll have the opportunity to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation.

Discover Christchurch Tour: This is a fun and interactive tour of Christchurch, where kids can learn about the history and culture of the city. They'll get to see the city's most famous landmarks. This tour is a great way to explore the city and learn about the special qualities of Christchurch.

Best day trips from Canterbury

24/48 Hour Pohatu Package at a penguin colony: This is a unique experience where you can spend 24 to 48 hours at a penguin colony, watching the penguins come ashore to nest and care for their chicks. The package includes a guided tour of the colony, accommodation, and meals. It's a great way to see the penguins in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and conservation.

Get involved Discovery Tour: This is a fun and educational experience that includes short walks through prehistoric native habitats, 400-year-old beech trees, and immense tree ferns. It's a great way to learn about the unique ecology of New Zealand and what the country looked like before human settlement.

Golf: Canterbury offers many beautiful golf courses where you can enjoy a round of golf while enjoying the beautiful views of the region.

Dolphin Encounter: This is a unique opportunity to see and learn about the playful and curious dusky dolphins in their natural habitat. It's a great way to introduce kids to marine conservation and the importance of protecting these amazing creatures.

Guided Wildlife Kayaking: This is a fun and unique way to explore the stunning coastal region of Canterbury by kayak. Kids will have the opportunity to see the local wildlife and explore the beautiful coastal scenery of the region. This is a great way to introduce them to the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation.

The best things to do near Canterbury

Abel Tasman Experience: One of the most popular helicopter tours - and for very good reasons! From the convenient base at Nelson Airport, board one of our modern helicopters and be whisked away to a subtropical paradise, consistently rated as one of New Zealand's best beaches. You'll have time for a walk, a swim, or lunch at the lodge. The only problem is you won't want to leave!

Heli-Picnic: Enjoy a delicious gourmet picnic at a hidden alpine lake. Fly north from our base at Nelson Airport, over the Abel Tasman National Park. Admire the pristine waters and golden sand beaches. You will then head into the Kahurangi National Park, New Zealand's second-largest national park, and land at a hidden alpine lake. Take a short walk to the nearby waterfall and relax in total serenity.

Southern Blend Kayak and walk: This half-day guided kayak and afternoon unguided walk tour in Abel Tasman involves paddling between Marahau and Observation Beach. It then takes you through the safe, sheltered, and scenic southern reaches of the Abel Tasman. Home to more than a dozen beautiful golden beaches, two islands, several sea caves, reefs, and tidal lagoons, this area of Abel Tasman is a delight to sea kayak. After your kayak take an easy unguided walk through native fern gullies and bush-clad headlands back to Marahau.

1 Day Freedom Kayak Rental: Freedom kayaking gives you the independence to see the wonders of the coastline at your own pace. Kahu Kayaks will equip you with everything you need to have an enjoyable and safe sea kayaking experience.

Paragliding from the Higher take off at Coronet Peak: Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you paraglide from the higher take off at Coronet Peak. With the Higher take off point, you can reach a higher altitude and enjoy the stunning view for longer.