Treat yourself to a myriad of indulgences in a thriving city – the perfect base from which to explore a landscape packed with adventure activities of every description.
New Zealand’s second largest city is also one of its most beautiful, known 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, head out of town and explore the surrounding countryside; from the hills and harbours of Banks Peninsula and French-flavoured Akaroa to the country town of Methven with its fishing, golfing and skiing.
DESTINATION-NZ.COM HIGHLIGHTS
Make a photo stop 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
With Katoro Waka Heritage Journeys you can learn how to paddle a waka (canoe), go on an historical journey, see kiwi, and experience Maori culture at Ko Tane.
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
‘The Garden City’, largest city in the South Island.
Akaroa
Pretty French settlement on Banks Peninsula.
Arthur’s Pass
Mountain village high in the Southern Alps.
Ashburton
A relaxed country town.
Methven
Outdoor adventure resort.
Transport
By Air
Christchurch International Airport, 20 minutes from the city centre, services the region with a wide range of flights to domestic and international destinations. See www.christchurch-airport.co.nz.
By Road
Christchurch is a 5 hour drive from Picton and a 5 hour, 10 minute drive from Dunedin. Coaches and shuttles offer regular services. There are many car rental companies, and the city is well served with public transport.
By Rail
Tranz Scenic operates the TranzCoastal service to Picton as well as the TranzAlpine service to Greymouth.
