Christchurch
Thick with English charm, the ‘Garden City’ is the heart of New Zealand’s most rugby-mad province and the home of the Canterbury Crusaders. Christchurch is set on the edge of arid farming plains, flanked to the east by the Pacific Ocean and to the west by the Southern Alps.
Explore the city’s galleries, museums, famous cathedral and boutique shopping precincts. Wander the woodlands of Hagley Park, or take a leisurely punt ride on the Avon River that meanders through the city.
It is a short drive to Lyttelton, a funky harbour-side town of cafes, restaurants and bars. Or head 90 minutes southeast over Banks Peninsula to the quaint French settlement of Akaroa. With colonial architecture and local craft stores, this pretty rural town sits on the shores of Akaroa Harbour and offers wonderful French food and luxury boutique accommodation.
The Canterbury region also boasts more than 10 ski areas; the alpine spa village of Hanmer Springs; and spectacular mountain scenery around Arthur’s Pass.