Winter

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

A destination for families, foodies and adventure seekers, South Canterbury is the place to explore.

Clearest starry skies, highest mountains, vivid turquoise lakes, expansive golden grasslands - welcome to the Mackenzie Region!

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!

Stretching across the Canterbury Plains from the Pacific Ocean to the Southern Alps, enjoy mountain vistas, a Lord of the Rings film location, and New Zealand's highest altitude settlement, the alpine village of Arthur's Pass. Continue on this great highway to the untamed natural wilderness of the West Coast.

Unlock the gems of North Canterbury on a 3-day itinerary or savour the magic over 5 days. The Alpine Pacific Touring Route highlights 450 km of spectacular coastal and alpine townships and unique environments.

Combine family-owned vineyards with an innovative approach to viticulture, and throw in close proximity to Ōtautahi Christchurch and you've got the North Canterbury Wine Region. The region is home to more than 90 vineyards, most of them independently owned by a tight community of local families.

Take a relaxing journey through the heartland of New Zealand. Visiting thriving country towns, see historic buildings and country museums. In addition to traditional farming, the area produces cheeses, truffles, saffron, olives and mead. You'll discover delightful picnic and camping places across the route.

A destination for families, foodies and adventure seekers. Travel through breath-taking scenery, rugged farmlands and heritage areas. Visit New Zealand's highest peak, largest glacier and in the evening take in the gold status international dark sky reserve.