A Modern Explorer’s Playground
Ōtautahi Christchurch is stacked with laneways and hidden gems, the Canterbury region filled with diverse landscapes and unforgettable moments, all on your doorstep.
Explore Our Region
From the Pacific Ocean, ancient volcanic peninsula and wondrous marine life, across patchwork plains, home to adrenaline pumping activities, lush vineyards and braided rivers rising to pristine glacial lakes and the majestic Southern Alps presided over by Aoraki/Mount Cook. You'll find something special in Canterbury #ExploreCHC.
Explore Our Regions
Ōtautahi Christchurch
Ōtautahi Christchurch is the city of exploration, a refreshing urban centre full of new secrets to discover. If you haven’t been here in a while, you’re in for a surprise. The city has been through some massive changes in the past few years, and the time has come to explore it all.
Kaikōura
A 3 hours' drive north from Christchurch, you'll find Kaikōura - New Zealand's leading eco-tourism destination, with an amazing variety of marine and birdlife along its dramatic rugged coastline.
West Coast
Between towering mountains and the crashing sea, the West Coast is bigger than anticipated and greater than you thought. If you yearn for something more from your holiday, real people, real towns and real experiences, then this is the place for you. This is - Untamed Natural Wilderness.
Hurunui & Hanmer Springs
A place of relaxation and adventure for generations, Hurunui and Hanmer Springs is a premier Canterbury destination. With rugged coastlines, lush forests, thermal pools, and wineries – this area is popular year-round.
Waimakariri
Only 20 minutes north of Christchurch’s hustle and bustle is a region of vast natural beauty, slower paced country towns and beach settlements all offering their own unique experience.
Akaroa & Banks Peninsula
Banks Peninsula is one of New Zealand's most unique landforms. With endless hills, bays and hidden bush, this is Nature's Playground right on Christchurch's doorstep.
Mid Canterbury
From the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, with stunning snow-capped Mt Hutt and bordered by impressive braided rivers and crystal clear lakes, Mid Canterbury offers an inspiring range of activities, complemented by genuine New Zealand hospitality.
South Canterbury
A destination for families, foodies and adventure seekers, South Canterbury is the place to explore.
Mackenzie
Clearest starry skies, highest mountains, vivid turquoise lakes, expansive golden grasslands - welcome to the Mackenzie Region!
Arthur's Pass & Selwyn
From the majestic Southern Alps and Arthur's Pass, down the braided Rakaia and Waimakariri rivers and over the patchwork Canterbury plains to the vast coastal lake of Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere, Selwyn is the place to explore!
Inspire Me
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Do Winter DifferentSlopes, streets and sea to nightlife, shopping, and eats, Ōtautahi Christchurch is just the beginning of your winter different adventure! Combine ski runs with relaxing hot pools. Après-ski with mates atop a city rooftop bar or with dolphins. From glaciers to stargazing do winter different this year. -
What's OnŌtautahi Christchurch is a city of world class sports, of blooming gardens, of daring street art, and inclusive communities that forge change. -
Wine & DineExplore Christchurch and Canterbury dining from relaxed cafés and bars to romantic fine dining. Our culturally diverse region has something to satisfy all tastes and budgets. -
Credit: David Gray for SailGP New Zealand Sail GP Christchurch 2022New Zealand Sail Grand Prix Christchurch - Expect human emotion, state-of-the-art technology and incredible drama as elite athletes fly cutting-edge wingsailed catamarans in thrilling close-to-shore races. -
Your Guide to Shopping in ChristchurchShopaholics, rejoice! Get the low down on where you can shop 'til you drop around Christchurch. Here you'll find exactly what you need to freshen up the wardrobe! -
Arts & CultureChristchurch city is alive with everything from street art, exhibitions, history and theatre. -
Top Day Trips From ChristchurchThere's something new and unexpected around every corner in Canterbury, with many gems within only a few hours' drive of Christchurch! We've put together our top day trips to help you get out there and make the most of your time in the region! -
Hot Pools a Plenty Across Central South IslandIs there a better way to chill and relax than in an outdoor hot pool? Equal parts luxury and serenity, the central South Island is home to some of the best in the country. -
The Clearest Night Sky in the World?Light pollution has hidden the clear night sky from cities around the world. Thankfully, Canterbury is home to some of the clearest night skies in the world. -
Cycling in CanterburyChristchurch's flat grid-like structure positioned next to the vast network of scenic road and off-road trails up and around the Port Hills, and the rest of the Canterbury region is a drawcard for many cycling enthusiasts. -
Explore Canterbury by FootCanterbury is made for outdoor recreation - with rolling countryside, lush green spaces, brilliant blue waterways, and a dynamic alpine environment. -
The Best Nine Views in Canterbury - Explore Your PlaceIf there’s a backyard worth exploring right now, it’s ours. We have mountains, beaches and endless coastlines, lush pastures and rolling hills – space for you to be active, respectful of others, and safe.
