Travel Articles

Summer Fun in the Sun: Canterbury

Punting on the Avon, credit christchurchnz.com

Kites at Brighton Beach, credit christchurchnz.com

Hanmer Springs, credit christchurchnz.com

Canterbury picnic, credit christchurchnz.com

Lap up the English beauty of Christchurch, soak in the healing mineral waters of Hanmer Springs, transport yourself to France at historic Akaroa and discover the breathtaking splendour of the Aoraki/Mount Cook region.

  • Christchurch & Canterbury Uncover the true essence of the ‘Garden City’ with a stroll around Hagley Park, or join the locals for a punt along the Avon River. You’ll find loads of recreational options from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Raft the epic rapids of the Rangitata, meet the animals at Orana Wildlife Park, or view the vintage fighters at the Airforce Museum. You can take to the skies for a balloon safari or helicopter flight high above the Canterbury plains, or saddle up for a horse trek in the high country.
  • Hanmer Springs – Soak up the glorious mountain views and thermal warmth at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools. If it’s adventure you’re after, this alpine region has plenty of options. There is jetboating, rafting and bungy jumping just out of town, or explore the beautiful countryside by horseback or mountain bike.
  • Aoraki/Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo – Even if you’re no Sir Edmund Hillary, you can still appreciate the beauty of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park – home to New Zealand’s highest peak – and the vivid blue glacial waters of Lake Tekapo. There are scenic flights, guided walks and climbs in the park, or you can take a night-time star watching tour at the Mount John observatory.
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Find Canterbury Accommodation
  • Alpine Garden Motel, Hanmer Springs Motels & Motor Lodges
    Alpine Garden Motel
    9 alpine style, clean, spacious, refurbished units all with spectacular views over the Hanmer Basin and to the mountains. A quiet location set back from the street yet only a short stroll down the avenue of oak trees to enjoy all...
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  • Rangiora Leigh Holiday Park, Rangiora Camping & Holiday Parks
    Rangiora Leigh Holiday Park
    Rangiora Leigh Holiday Park offers comfortable camping and holiday park accommodation in Rangiora in Canterbury. It has 40 tent sites and 22 power sites, 11 cabins; non-smoking. Park amenities include: communal kitchens,...
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  • Avalon Court Accommodation, Christchurch Motels & Motor Lodges
    Avalon Court Accommodation
    Conveniently located on Bealey Avenue, you will find Avalon Court Accommodation, Christchurch. The property offers comfortable and affordable accommodation in the heart of Christchurch which is tastefully decorated using earthy...
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