Geraldine/Timaru/Central South Island

South Canterbury is a very special part of New Zealand. The Christchurch New Zealand i-SITE will help you find accommodation, transport and attractions in the area, with their vast local knowledge and itinerary suggestions.

What should you know about this area?

From Peel Forest to Pleasant Point and Timaru, this is a land of outdoor recreation and local food & wine delights.

South Canterbury Food & Wine Trail

Image Gallery

More Information

Visit our blog where you can read about local experiences, including a Christchurch to Timaru cycling adventure.

You can find more information on South Canterbury, including local history and the range of services available.

 

Welcome to Aoraki Mt Cook and Mackenzie Country - a very special part of  Canterbury in New Zealand's South Island.

UPDATE from Aoraki Mt Cook and Mackenzie Country - Week of 7 March 2011

For current information on this special area, please contact Mackenzie Country i-SITE visitor information centre or call 0064 3 680 6579 for travel information, accommodation and advice.

For current information on Christchurch City accommodation and visitor attractions, please contact Christchurch Airport i-SITE Visitor Centre at 0064 3 353 7774.

More Information

You can find more information on Mackenzie Country, including local history and the range of services available.

Photo Credits: The Hermitage, Aoraki Mt Cook

Image Gallery

Canterbury

Rest of South Island

 

All North Island

As usual, contact your nearest i-SITE visitor information centre.

 

For more information following the 22 February Christchurch earthquake.

CLIMATE

  • Low annual rainfall, warm summers and crisp, frosty winters
  • Summer (Dec-Feb), moderate, 15 - 25 degrees C
  • Winter (Jun-Aug), mild, 9 - 14 degrees C

Tour With

Just two hours' drive from Christchurch, 2.5 hours from Dunedin or a direct flight from Wellington, you’ll find the Central South Island easy to reach but hard to leave!

Whats On

The Central South Island hosts a great range of events, from October's South Island Masters Games and November's Festival of Roses, to the 100th Caroline Bay Carnival (starts Boxing Day).

Must Do Checklist

  • Visit the Maori Rock Art Site
  • Explore Peel Forest Park
  • Picnic At Caroline Bay
  • Sample Local Wines
  • Go Fishing
  • White Water Rafting
  • Follow the Heritage Trail
  • Stay At A Cosy B&B
Centre Hill Cottage

Stay At

Accommodation options range from hotel/motel, secluded luxury lodge, farm-stay, historic B&B, holiday park or friendly backpackers.

The Tin Shed

Shop or Dine at

Enjoy quaint country and beachside cafés, and enjoy the ambiance of dining in top quality restaurants with stunning scenic views.

    Te Ana-Ngai Tahu Rock Art Centre

    See & Do

    Something for every season! Arts, adventure, and plenty of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy!

    Back to Top

    Skip to main content Home Site Map Contact Us