Canterbury

Located in the middle of the South Island, Canterbury is the largest region in New Zealand. Bordered by the Southern Alps on one side and the Pacific Ocean on another, popular destinations in the area include Christchurch, Kaikoura and Hanmer Springs, just to name a few. Home to more than 300,000 people, Christchurch is New Zealand’s second-largest city. Its location makes Canterbury’s numerous towns and villages easy day trips.
Whereever you go, you’ll have no trouble keeping busy in the Canterbury region. See New Zealand’s highest peak, Aoraki Mount Cook, go wine tasting in the Waipara Valley or whale-watching in Kaikoura. Then there’s skiing, mountain biking and hiking. Or take the rare opportunity to do nothing but relax in the thermal pools at Hanmer Springs.

Practical Info

Christchurch is a three-hour flight from the east coast of Australia. Numerous airlines make the trip. Car rental is available at Christchurch International Airport.