Things to do in Canterbury Plains

Why Visit the Canterbury Plains?

Stretching from the foothills of the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, the Canterbury Plains are one of New Zealand's most distinctive landscapes. The plains create a vast expanse of fertile farmland that has become the agricultural heart of Canterbury. 

While many travellers pass through on the way to alpine or coastal destinations, the region offers far more than a scenic drive, with charming rural towns, historic settlements and ever-changing landscapes that reflect the character of the South Island.

The Canterbury Plains are ideal for travellers who enjoy scenic road trips and discovering places beyond the main tourist centres. The region provides a peaceful contrast to New Zealand's mountains and coastlines while serving as the gateway to destinations including Christchurch, Akaroa, Hanmer Springs, Kaikōura, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and Timaru. 

What Are the Best Things to Do in the Canterbury Plains?

The appeal of the Canterbury Plains lies in their combination of rural landscapes and easy access to outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore historic country towns, stop at local cafés and farm shops. Enjoy watching the sunrise from hot air balloons and see the rolling farmlands and take lots of unforgettable photos. 

The plains also provide convenient access to a wide range of activities throughout Canterbury. You can take the TranzAlpine railway from Christchurch or have a scenic drive through the Great Alpine Highway and ride past famous filming locations to explore the jaw-dropping geology and geography of Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass. 

Authentic Farm Tours from rural operators introduce visitors to the region's farming heritage and natural landscapes. From the plains, travellers can also continue towards other nearby areas for alpine adventures, coastal wildlife experiences and nearby National Parks, making this landscape an important part of any Canterbury journey rather than simply a route between destinations.

Explore the Canterbury Plains and the Surrounding Areas

One of the greatest advantages of exploring the Canterbury Plains is their central location within the region. To the east lies Christchurch with its beautiful botanical gardens, cultural attractions and international airport to the South Island. 

Heading southeast, the volcanic landscapes of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula provide opportunities for sea kayaking and wildlife cruises. Travelling north leads to Kaikōura, for its exceptional whale and dolphin watching experiences and dramatic coastal scenery.

To the west, the landscape gradually rises towards the Southern Alps, where visitors can relax in Hanmer Springs or continue through the Mackenzie Basin to Lake Tekapo and Aoraki / Mount Cook. These alpine destinations feature glacial lakes, spectacular mountain scenery and some of New Zealand's most celebrated National Parks. 

Travellers heading south can also include Timaru, where beaches, heritage buildings and coastal walks provide another perspective on the region. The Canterbury Plains connect each of these destinations, making them the natural foundation of many South Island road trips.

Where Are the Canterbury Plains and How Do I Get There?

The Canterbury Plains cover much of the eastern South Island, extending from the foothills of the Southern Alps to the Pacific coastline. They stretch across central Canterbury, linking many of the region's major towns and destinations through an extensive network of highways and rural roads. 

State Highway 1 follows the eastern edge of the plains between Christchurch and Timaru, while inland routes connect travellers with Lake Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and the Mackenzie Basin.
Most visitors experience the plains as part of a self-drive holiday, with rental cars and campervans offering the flexibility to explore scenic back roads and country towns. Organised scenic Tours also travel through the region, particularly on routes between Christchurch and the Southern Alps.

The open roads, relatively gentle terrain and well-maintained highways make the plains easy to navigate throughout the year. Before setting out, visitors can use our Interactive Maps to explore driving routes, estimate travel times and discover attractions and destinations that can be added to their itinerary across Canterbury.

Local Tips and Interesting Facts About the Canterbury Plains

The Canterbury Plains were created by powerful braided rivers flowing from the Southern Alps, including the Waimakariri, Rakaia and Rangitata Rivers. These waterways continue to shape the landscape today, creating one of the largest areas of fertile farmland in New Zealand. 

Agriculture plays a vital role in the region, with sheep farming, dairy production, cropping and horticulture contributing significantly to both the local economy and the country's food production. This long agricultural tradition has also influenced the character of the small towns and rural communities scattered throughout the plains.

Although many travellers drive through the region on their way to other destinations, slowing taking time to explore adds valuable context to visits to Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook and reveals experiences that are easily overlooked. Local farmers' markets, heritage museums, country cafés and scenic river walks provide a genuine connection to everyday life in Canterbury.