Traveller’s editors and senior writers are frequent visitors to New Zealand’s Canterbury region and its gateway city, Christchurch. The region’s wealth of new experiences, backed by its natural attractions, is a key drawcard for independent travellers keen to explore and relax in equal measure.
From its creative shipping container shops to new bars, cafes and restaurants, Christchurch is brimming with energy. More hotels and many of the city’s iconic attractions are open, urban spaces are undergoing rejuvenation and a diverse calendar of events showcasing Canterbury life, culture and arts is attracting travellers from around the world.
We have had the pleasure of seeing Christchurch and Canterbury expand its abundance of urban, outdoor and adventure travel experiences, while its immersive havens are providing travellers with pristine places to rest and rejuvenate.
The stunning Waipara Valley north of Christchurch is home to award-winning pinot noir, riesling, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc vineyards. The newly completed Waipara Valley Vineyard Trail is a superb way for cyclists and walkers as well as drivers to taste their way around north Canterbury.
Delicious and diverse food and wine trails to the west and south of Christchurch, set among more of Canterbury’s jaw-dropping landscapes, host cellar doors, farmers’ markets, cafes, restaurants and accommodation for every budget. Kaikoura, north of Christchurch, is renowned for its eco-tourism, whale-watching and hospitality. To the north-west, Hanmer Springs combines rejuvenating spa stays with outdoor adventure. In the centre of Canterbury, Aoraki Mount Cook-Mackenzie’s palette includes mountain biking, four-wheel-drive tours, scenic flights, kayaking and walks, while Lake Tekapo, at the foot of the Southern Alps, is home to the Mount John Observatory and the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve.
Akaroa Harbour, south of Christchurch, is where visitors come to swim with small, rare Hector’s dolphins while the nearby Banks Pensinsula hosts keen kayakers.
Christchurch is a three-hour flight from Australia’s east coast and the Canterbury region’s towns and villages are ready-made for day trips from the city. However, the landscapes and experiences of Canterbury are too bold and pretty to rush past. Best you linger, then.
GETTING THERE
Christchurch is a three-hour flight from Australia’s east coast. Book with: Air New Zealand airnewzealand.com.au; Jetstar jetstar.com; Qantas qantas.com.au; Virgin Australia virginaustralia.com; Emirates emirates.com/au
GETTING AROUND
Car hire is at Christchurch International Airport.
Budget budget.co.nz Avis avis.co.nz
WHILE THERE
Christchurch i-SITE Visitor Centre has a free booking service for accommodation, activities and transport throughout Christchurch, Canterbury and New Zealand. The centre is in the Botanic Gardens, Rolleston Avenue (next to the Canterbury Museum), open seven days from 8.30am to 7pm.
A Cathedral Square i-SITE Kiosk is also open seven days, 9.30am to 5pm (until 31 March 2014).
This series of articles published in association with Tourism New Zealand and Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism.
