| About Canterbury |
| From the silvery beaches of the coast
to the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps, the Canterbury landscape is
impossible to ignore. Big scenery is the order of the day - huge panoramas
of ocean or mountains, great sweeps of pastureland and massive amounts
of sky. The highest point of the region is the highest point of New Zealand. The spectacular Aoraki Mount Cook stands at 3754 metres (Aoraki is Maori for Cloud Piercer). 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. Hundreds of years ago, Maori moa hunters worked these plains leaving a rock art record of their successes. In the two cities of the region, Christchurch and Timaru, great care has been taken to preserve Canterbury’s colonial heritage. Grand architecture, historic homesteads and immaculate parks intermingle with the technology and style of modern life. |
| Getting here & around |
| While the Canterbury region lends itself
to self drive - either in a rental car or campervan - air and rail travel
offer their own special scenic experiences. It's a smart idea to alternate
between driving yourself around and letting someone else do the work.
The TranzAlpine railway over Arthur's Pass is one example of a journey
that is best appreciated as a passenger. Getting to and from Canterbury By Road State Highway 1 runs the length of the Canterbury region, linking to State Highways 7 and 73 from the west coast and State Highway 77 to the Mackenzie Country. Road conditions are generally excellent, although ice and snow can be a hazard in winter. Coach services to Christchurch include Bottom Bus, Kiwi Experience, Southern Link and Intercity. Driving times from Christchurch to major cities and towns: - Nelson - 6 hours - Blenheim - 4 hours 30 minutes - Dunedin - 4 hours 30 minutes - Queenstown - 6 hours 30 minutes - Greymouth - 3 hours 45 minutes By Air Christchurch airport is located 30 minutes drive west of the central city. The airport receives international flights from Australia, Asia, the United Kingdom, Europe and the USA. Domestic flights from New Zealand's main centres arrive several times a day. Timaru has a domestic airport and receives daily flights from key New Zealand centres. By Rail The TranzAlpine, rated one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world, travels daily from Christchurch to Greymouth over Arthur's Pass. The TranzCoastal travels daily between Christchurch and Picton where it connects with the InterIslander. This journey is also very scenic, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and high coastal ranges on the other. Getting around Canterbury All the major rental vehicle companies are represented in Christchurch and Timaru. It's easy to collect a rental car or motorhome from the airport. A number of tour companies can help you to experience Canterbury without the hassle of driving. Christchurch Tramway is an inner city tour experience that allows you to hop on and off as much as you like. In the evening you can board the Restaurant Tram for a la carte dining while you glide past the historic buildings. |
| Top Canterbury scenic highlights |
| In Canterbury, contrasts are everywhere
you look - the rugged alps next to smooth, green plains; the wild Pacific
alongside the magnificent Kaikoura Ranges; cool, blue lakes framed by
golden tussock. A fantasy land of ice and rock - Aoraki Mount Cook National Park The boundaries of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park encircle New Zealand's highest mountains and largest glaciers. The park is part of Te Wahipounamu, the South Westland World Heritage Area, in recognition of its outstanding natural value. From Twizel, a sealed road leads along the edge of beautiful Lake Pukaki right into the park. Mount Cook Village lies at the end of the road, just below the terminals of the Hooker and Mueller Glaciers. According to Maori legend, Aoraki and his three brothers were the sons of Rakinui, the Sky Father. They were on a voyage around Papatuanuku, the Earth Mother, when their canoe was stranded after striking a reef in the ocean. Aoraki and his brothers climbed onto the top their canoe. The cold south wind froze them, and turned them into stone. Their canoe became New Zealand's South Island, which was then called Te Waka o Aoraki. Aoraki, the tallest of the brothers, became the highest peak. His brothers and crew became the other mountains of the Southern Alps. Not far from the national park is Lake Tekapo, a remarkable turquoise coloured lake framed by the majesty of the Southern Alps. Lake Tekapo is given its intense milky-turquoise hue by fine rock-flour - dust ground by glacial movement and held in suspension by the lake's waters. Walk to the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, where the altar window frames a perfect view of Aoraki Mount Cook. Look also for the sheepdog monument - a bronze statue sculpted to recognise the district's debt to the sheepdog 'without the help of which the grazing of the mountainous country would be impossible'. Inland Scenic Route 72 The Inland Scenic Route 72 is perfect for the traveller who likes to get off the main highways and find real rural life. The route starts at Amberley in the north of the Canterbury region and runs to Rangiora, parallel to State Highway 1. It then follows State Highway 72 inland, past the Mount Hutt ski field. On one side of the road are fabulous views of the mountains and on the other are beautiful vistas of the Canterbury Plains. The route continues to Geraldine and ends at Winchester, linking back up with State Highway 1. Where the mountains meet the sea Drive north from Christchurch for a couple of hours and you'll reach Kaikoura - famous for its marine life and stunning scenery. There is no more spectacular sight than to see Kaikoura township nestled at the base of the snow topped Southern Alps, bordered by the Pacific Ocean. The drive is a scenic highlight in itself, taking you from the flat greenness of the Canterbury Plains to the craggy landscape of the Kaikoura coastline. The awesome alpine scenery of Arthur's Pass In the heart of the Southern Alps is Arthur's Pass National Park, situated on the road connection between Canterbury and the west coast. High mountains with large scree slopes are a major landscape feature, along with wide braided rivers, steep gorges and native forest. Arthur's Pass village lies in the centre of the park, providing a base for hikers who come to walk the alpine trails. The TranzAlpine train journey is an inspired way to appreciate Arthur's Pass. From your carriage you'll see the serene Canterbury Plains, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. The train then climbs into the Southern Alps before descending through lush beech forest to the west coast town of Greymouth. The charm of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula A one and a half hour drive south-east of Christchurch, Banks Peninsula is the result of violent eruptions from three ancient volcanoes. The spectacular coastline of Akaroa Harbour and the surroundings bays are the legacy of the earth's fury. The Ngai Tahu Maori tribe had already discovered the charm of the location well before Captain Cook sighted Akaroa Harbour in the 1770s. Akaroa is the site of the only attempted settlement by the French in New Zealand. Their influence is still evident in this vibrant tourist town - look for French street names, quaint historic buildings and inspired cuisine. The sights and scents of Christchurch Botanic Gardens The grounds of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens encompass an area of 30 hectares alongside the Avon River. The rose garden is central to the Botanic Gardens layout, containing more than 250 different roses. The nearby Herb Garden, constructed in 1986, has an extensive range of plants used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Be sure also to visit the Heather Garden, Rock Garden, Rhododendron Collection and the Cockayne Garden, which features New Zealand native plants. Ancient totara in Peel Forest Park There are various day walks available through the Peel Forest in South Canterbury. Take a walk through the Te Wanahu area to some of New Zealand's finest totara trees. One of them measures almost three metres across and is believed to be about 1,000 years old. A day trip to Little Mount Peel yields spectacular views across the Canterbury Plains to the coast. Photo opportunities at Hanmer Springs Hanmer Forest contains some of New Zealand's oldest exotic trees. Planting began in 1902. Native birds commonly found in the park include bellbirds, fantails, miromiro, riroriro, rifleman, tui, kereru and New Zealand falcon. There are many walking trails in the forest. Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to do the Chatterton River, Mount Isobel or Waterfall Tracks. |
| Attractions |
| Cyclists on the
Port Hills Christchurch and Canterbury are famous for natural beauty and a wealth of things to do. Christchurch has a lively entertainment scene, strong cultural heritage, gorgeous parks and gardens, lots of sports facilities and good shopping. Among the ‘must sees’ are the weekend Arts Centre market, Christchurch Cathedral, Botanic Gardens and International Antarctic Centre. The Robert McDougall Art Gallery and Annex exhibit New Zealand and international art and Canterbury Museum has fine cultural and natural collections as well as creative and imaginative displays. Orana Park is New Zealand’s largest wildlife reserve and Willowbank Wildlife Reserve has among its displays New Zealand’s largest daytime kiwi viewing area. Air Force World captures the adventure and history of flight in New Zealand and Christchurch Casino offers 24-hour gaming entertainment. Visitors can be introduced to Maori culture at Nga Hau E Wha Marae. Robert McDougall Art Gallery Located in the Botanic Gardens, the Robert McDougall is Christchurch’s public art museum which is the current home of Christchurch’s public art collection, including international and New Zealand historical and contemporary pieces. The gallery is open from 10am until 5.30pm (summer) and 10am until 4.30pm (winter). Guided tours are available daily. Canterbury Museum Canterbury Museum is renowned for having some of the finest cultural and natural collections in New Zealand, as well as for its creative and imaginative displays. Housed in one of Christchurch's finest historic buildings, Canterbury Museum has world class displays of geology, zoology, Maori, Asian and European collections. Other highlights are the late 19th century Christchurch Street, the very exciting hands-on Discovery Centre for children of all ages, the world's top stories from Antarctica's heroic era of discovery and exploration, and "Living Canterbury" - a look at what makes our environment special and how we can protect it. The Museum's Exhibition Court features a range of changing special exhibitions. Enjoy a rest in the delightful Museum Cafe overlooking the Botanic Gardens, or browse around the Museum Store. Include a visit to the nearby Botanic Gardens and the Arts Centre. Canterbury Museum is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 9am until 5pm in the winter, and 9am until 5.30pm in the summer. Guided tours are available. Entry by donation. Discovery $2 per person. Arts Centre Christchurch’s hub of arts and crafts, featuring art galleries, craft studios and shops, theatres, cinemas, a selection of cafes, restaurants and bars and an exciting colourful weekend market and ethnic food fair. Lunchtime concerts feature every Friday and live music every weekend in summer. This historic site was originally home to Canterbury University College, first established in 1873. It includes many wonderful places of historic note, including the oldest lecture theatre in New Zealand and the centre’s latest attraction, "Father of the Atom", Ernest Lord Rutherford's Den. Botanic Gardens Christchurch’s reputation as the Garden City is truly reflected in the Botanic Gardens. Undoubtedly the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants found anywhere in New Zealand, the Gardens provide spectacular displays all year round. You can’t help but be impressed with the large majestic trees and sweeping lawns providing a wonderful backdrop to our feature gardens including rock, water, rose and herb gardens. Also featured are herbaceous borders, woodland areas and a conservatory complex, open daily from 10.15am until 4pm. Relax and let the kids play in our play area next to the Gardens Restaurant. Christchurch Tramway Christchurch's heritage trams are a great way to experience the heritage and charm that makes Christchurch special, with an informative and entertaining commentary. The tramway offers a quality inner city tour experience that combines the heritage of the trams, attractions and historic buildings with the culture of the Garden City. The trams follow a 2.5 kilometre loop around central Christchurch taking in some interesting sites. These include Cathedral Square, Southern Encounter Aquarium, The Arts Centre, Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Punting on the Avon, Victoria Square, and New Regent Street to name just a few. The beautifully restored heritage trams are also available for cocktail functions or a unique ? la carte dining experience on the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant. The operating hours of the trams are: 9am - 6pm (1 April - 31 October) and 9am - 9pm (1 November - 31 March) with the last tram leaving Cathedral Square 30 minutes prior to closing time. Orana Wildlife Park New Zealand’s largest wildlife reserve, Orana Wildlife Park is set on 80 hectares of park land. The Park is internationally recognised for its breeding of rare and endangered New Zealand and African animals. You can experience the feeding of the magnificent Rothschild giraffe, see cheetah in full chase, feed the lions, enjoy the antics of monkeys, lemurs, porcupines and servals, and be amazed at the African Plains exhibit featuring white rhino and zebra. Be sure not to miss out on New Zealand’s own symbol, the Kiwi in the nocturnal house, as well as other native birds and our rare reptile, the Tuatara. You can relax and enjoy the view of all this from our fully licensed Serengeti Restaurant. Private functions available by arrangement. Orana Wildlife Park is open every day of the week (except Christmas Day) from 10am - 4.30pm. Air Force World Experience the adventure of the history of flight in New Zealand. Air Force World is located on the old RNZAF Base Wigram, one of the earliest airbases in the country. You’ll be amazed at the story of nearly a century of flight including a 27 minute movie, see 28 classic aircraft, beautifully restored and theatrically displayed, visit the restoration hangar and be thrilled by Tiger Moth and Boeing Stearman joyrides over the city. Also featured is a special World War II section including a Battle of Britain display. And our experienced guides are on hand to answer any questions you may have. Air Force World is open every day from 10am until 5pm Willowbank Wildlife Reserve New Zealand’s premiere wildlife park showing one of the most complete selections of native and introduced wildlife in their natural environment, as well as a wonderful farmyard and exotic display. You can also enjoy the rare experience of New Zealand’s largest and most unique daytime Kiwi viewing area. Willowbank places special emphasis on spacious surroundings and animal contact. Experience Wildlife by Night. See many of New Zealand’s rare nocturnal animals and birds, including kiwis in their natural environment. Buffet dinner and BBQ lunches available. The park is open from 10am until 10pm daily International Antarctic Centre The World's Best Antarctic Attraction - A Unique Experience. Christchurch is the world's aerial gateway to the Antarctic and has been proudly associated with the Antarctic since the early heroic era when Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton visited Christchurch on their way down to the Ice. The International Antarctic Centre is a modern day working Antarctic campus and is home to the United States, the Italian, and the NZ Antarctic Programmes. The Antarctic attraction is located in the heart of this campus and has twice been voted the best attraction in NZ. It is a fun interactive and hands on experience the whole family will enjoy. Slide down a snow slope in the world's first indoor Snow & Ice Experience, throw a snowball, or try on your own Antarctic clothing at the Camp Site area. The audio visual and interactive presentations are fantastic and the children will enjoy meeting "Pom Pom" the penguin and "Slip" the seal! The outdoor Antarctic Hägglund Ride is a "must do"- a 10 - 15 minute Adventure Course ride on a genuine Antarctic vehicle. Set aside 2-3 hours for your visit and make time to have a meal in the Antarctic Café & Bar. The attraction is open seven days a week from 9am. Nga Hau E Wha Marae Nga Hau E Wha National Marae, New Zealands largest marae, is the ‘Marae of the Four Winds’ where people from all points of the compass meet, and all cultures are welcome. Join an informal guided tour every day at 11am or 2pm, where you’ll get a great introduction into Maori culture, protocol, history and tradition. Or spend an evening at the Marae and experience the informative tour and stunning cultural performance that is held every night. Ask about the special evenings also including a traditional Maori welcome and hangi dinner. Don’t forget to rub the greenstone inlaid in the steps of the meeting house - legend has it that it will bring you good luck! The Marae is open every day, but you’ll need to book for the tours as well as the concert performances and meals. Southern Encounter Aquarium Southern Encounter Aquarium is New Zealand’s newest and most unique visitor experience. Located right in the heart of Christchurch’s Cathedral Square, Aquarium of Discovery takes you on a southern encounter across the South Island. As you travel from the East Coast to the West Coast you will experience the diverse wonders of the South Island’s freshwater and marine species. Discover the rocky shore, lakes and rivers, the fishing lodge with fly tying demonstrations and the swing bridge, waterfall and glowworm cave. View gigantic eels, trout, marine fish and sharks and watch as divers hand feed eels and sharks daily. Southern Encounter Aquarium is open every day of the year. Summer hours are from 9.00am until 9.00pm. Winter hours are from 10.00am until 6.00pm Centre of Contemporary Art The largest selection and display of contemporary art can be found at 66 Gloucester Street in downtown Christchurch. Five galleries and over 50 exhibitions per annum will enable you to gain an in-depth understanding of both New Zealand and Cantabrian Contemporary Art. Besides providing numerous specialised art services for members, the centre also hosts an extensive Open Gallery where hundreds of art works are on display and for sale by renowned New Zealand artists. The Centre, established in 1880 is the oldest art institution in the Canterbury region. CoCA’s opening hours are Tuesday to Friday 11.00am until 5.00pm and weekends from 12.00pm until 4.00pm. Phone for information about our lunch hour and city weekend tours. Christchurch Casino When you’re ready for indoor adventure, treat yourself to a visit to Christchurch Casino! Christchurch Casino offers twenty four hour gaming entertainment to visitors to Christchurch. The casino has 428 gaming machines and a wide variety of Table Games including Blackjack, American Roulette, Mini Baccarat, Midi Baccarat, Tai Sai, Money Wheel and Caribbean Stud Poker as well as The Racing Game and Live Keno. Christchurch Casino is centrally located and is easily accessible from all inner city hotels and motels. and is open 24 hours a day. You must be 20 years or over to enter Christchurch Casino, Restaurants or Bars. The Dress Code requires smart casual attire, no blue or black jeans. Free Shuttles operate to and from local hotels and motels each evening. Christchurch Casino is open 24 hours a day. |
| Seasonal Tips |
| Summer (Dec-Feb) Canterbury enjoys a weather phenomenon called the ‘Nor’ West Arch’. Warm, northwesterly winds streak clouds into an archway across the sky, and the temperatures soar. At Aoraki Mount Cook, you can hike the mountain trails and explore the glaciers by boat. In South Canterbury, relax by the sea at Caroline Bay and enjoy the scent of the rose gardens. Mountain bikers are zooming along the trails around Hanmer Springs. Eco tours are introducing travellers to marine mammals in Kaikoura and Akaroa. Autumn (Mar-May) Clear, sunny days are common in autumn. Day time temperatures are mild, but the nights are getting cooler. Around Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, early snow falls will inspire you to climb the steps to the Red Tarns to photograph the panorama. It’s also a good time for walking in the Peel Forest Park – discover a totara tree that’s almost three metres wide. Around Lewis Pass and Hanmer Springs, the autumn scenery is totally enchanting. Winter (Jun-Aug) The Southern Alps and foothills are blanketed with snow, yet Canterbury is famous for turning on crisp, clear, sunny winter days, making for breathtaking scenery. All the ski fields are in full swing. There are 14 ski areas within the region, so many snow sport enthusiasts make a point of trying several. In Hanmer Springs you can ski all day, then soak your aching muscles in the hot springs at night. Spring (Sep-Nov) Spring provides idyllic, mild conditions for touring the region. Wander the gracious public and private gardens of Christchurch and Timaru, then drive to the high country through charming rural towns, where lambs, wildflowers and fresh pastures make for postcard-perfect scenery. In restaurants you’ll enjoy fresh asparagus and other seasonal specialities. The spring thaw makes it a wild time to ride the Waimakariri River in a jet boat, or drive up to Arthur’s Pass and watch the waterfalls. |
| Key Tips |
| - Christchurch international airport receives
flights from Australia, Asia, the UK and the USA, providing a convenient
gateway to South Island destinations. - Comfortable driving distances let you pack more into your holiday. In Canterbury it’s possible to go surfing and skiing on the same day! - Mount Hutt is usually the first New Zealand ski field to open and the last to close. Snowmakers keep the slopes in top shape. - The city of Timaru has a domestic airport. Flights arrive daily from Wellington. |
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