What to see & do in Christchurch & Canterbury

There aren't many places in the world where you'd find this much exhilarating adventure all in the one area. If you're seeking just a small shift from your comfort zone, or chasing adrenalin pumping action, come right this way.

Indulge your own artistic and cultural passions local-style, or challenge your tastes and experience with something outside of your usual leanings. Either way, we hope what you see and experience in our region has you heading home wowed and inspired.

For an authentic Canterbury culinary experience, visit an artisan producer, or get yourself to one of the region's flourishing farmers' markets. By going direct to source, you'll access some of the area's freshest produce, finest foods and homemade treats.

Christchurch is affectionately known as 'The Garden City'. In the city, and its big backyard of Canterbury, you'll find many a green oasis of garden, parkland, forest and native wetlands. These areas provide plenty of recreational activities or, simply relax, and take in the beauty and tranquillity.

If swinging a club is your thing, you're spoilt for choice in Canterbury. Take your pick of more than 40 golf courses in the region – from casual country courses to international golf resorts.

If you love to discover gems and tales of old, there's plenty of history and heritage to soak up in Canterbury. Make sure you get a local's perspective on things while you visit our heritage attractions – they'll often have some fascinating tales that didn't make the history books.

Superb scenery, exquisite accommodation, divine day spas, world class cuisine, fine wines, and warm Canterbury hospitality – our region has all the ingredients for a luxurious getaway.

Our sweeping plains, weaving waterways and pristine coastline are home to a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, and some of the world's most spectacular wildlife.

When the temperature drops, Canterbury's peaks become a winter playground – with more ski areas than anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere. From family friendly fields to off-piste exhilaration, our region caters to anyone looking for snow-fuelled fun and adventure.

Walking and hiking trails, along with mountain bike tracks crisscross Canterbury. There’s something for every energy level - just bring sturdy foot wear and an appreciation for clean air and superb vistas.

A visit to Canterbury wouldn't be complete without experiencing a good dose of our exceptional gourmet delights. Our region is rated among the world's top wine-producing areas, and our fertile lands and pure waterways yield some delectable fare.

In Canterbury, cruise ships can dock in 4 ports - Akaroa, Lyttelton, Kaikoura and Timaru. Each port offers stunning scenery and unique shore excursions. Akaroa, just 83km from Christchurch, is a French inspired seaside village known for its picturesque scenery, plentiful wildlife, crafts and cafés.

One of the beauties of the Canterbury region is the huge range of sights and activities you can experience without having to travel far at all. Here's our pick of the top 10 places for a day out of Christchurch.

One of Christchurch's exciting new buildings is the Transitional 'Cardboard' Cathedral designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban. The Cardboard Cathedral is expected to be completed in 2013 and it is currently being constructed on the site of the former St John's Latimer Square Anglican Church.