Exploring Around Christchurch
The hub of the dynamic
Canterbury region and the aerial gateway to Antarctica and the South Island, Christchurch enjoys a reputation as New Zealand's Garden City. South-east of Christchurch, the Port Hills and the twin harbours of the
Banks Peninsula offer a range of walks and adventure activities. The historic township of
Akaroa, New Zealand's only French settlement, lies at the tip of Banks Peninsula. Natural attractions in this scenic area include the rare Hector's dolphins, and penguin and seal colonies, while activities include harbour cruises, fishing and walks. North-west of the city, the main highway to the
West Coast gives handy access to
Arthur's Pass and the magnificent alpine scenery of the Southern Alps.
Attractions:
- TranzAlpine Express
One of the world's great train journey's travels from Christchurch to Greymouth on the West Coast, rewarding passengers with spectacular alpine scenery.
- Arthur's Pass National Park
This national park, nestled in the rugged Southern Alps, offers wild scenery, alpine flora, skiing and adventure sports.
- Mount Hutt
Located just 90 minutes from Christchurch, Mount Hutt enjoys the longest ski season in New Zealand - about six months.
- Sumner Beach
A popular beach suburb 12km from Christchurch offering camping facilities and safe swimming. At the north end of the beach is the unusual volcanic lava deposit, Cave Rock.
- Port Hills
This ridge of hills surrounding Lyttelton Harbour offers panoramic views over the Canterbury Plains and coastline, with opportunities for mountain biking, walking and running.
- Lyttelton
The South Island's main port offers a historic downtown area to explore. The city's earliest building, an Anglican church, dates back to 1860.
- Banks Peninsula
A scenic area of rolling farmlands south of Christchurch, containing wineries, wildlife and New Zealand's only French settlement, historic Akaroa.
- Akaroa
Canterbury's oldest village was founded in 1838 by French whalers. Visitors can enjoy a historic walk, a harbour cruise or a swim with the Hector's dolphins.
- The Banks Peninsula Marine Mammal Sanctuary
A maritime reserve created to protect the world's smallest (and rarest) dolphin, the Hector's dolphin, and home to a seal colony and native penguins.
- Banks Peninsula Track
Walk the crater rim of this magnificent ancient volcano.