The thriving cultural city of Christchurch forms the perfect base from which to explore an abundance of activities in a stunning natural landscape of lakes and mountains.

Christchurch is New Zealand’s second largest city and one of its most beautiful, renowned for the brilliant colours of its parks and gardens, its wonderful old stone buildings and the tranquil river that winds its way through the central city. Offering a buzzing café culture and nightlife as well as excellent shopping, it’s very easy to spend several days here. When you’re feeling rejuvenated, take a short drive from Christchurch you’ll find the hills and harbours of Banks Peninsula and French-flavoured Akaroa and the country town of Methven with its fishing, golfing and skiing.

DESTINATION-NZ.COM HIGHLIGHTS

Give your camera a workout at Hilltop – this lookout is the perfect vantage point for appreciating the astonishing beauty of Akaroa Harbour and Banks Peninsula. Soak up the atmosphere in Christchurch’s wonderful Cultural Precinct – from the lush green tranquillity of the Botanic Gardens to the charming heritage buildings of the Arts Centre. Enjoy the mountains with a winter’s day skiing Mount Hutt or a summer’s day hiking one of the local trails.

NOTABLE CULTURE

Nga Hau E Wha National Marae – the Marae of the Four Winds – is the largest Marae in New Zealand. Take a guided tour or watch a cultural performance.

MOMENT IN HISTORY

In 1838, French whaling captain Jean Langlois negotiated the purchase of Banks Peninsula from local Maori and in 1840 63 French settlers emigrated under warship escort – British officials reacted by hastily arranging for a British warship to raise the flag at Akaroa and claim sovereignty.

THE ICONIC EXPERIENCE

Catch the TranzAlpine for a spectacular rail journey across the Canterbury Plains, through the rugged Southern Alps, to the rainforest-clad valleys of the West Coast.

Plan your trip with a detailed map of this region and peruse our suggested travel itinerary. Read More Sights, activities and top picks to make planning easier. Read More