Canterbury
Welcome to Canterbury! A place where coastal and mountain experiences combine to make a place where there's something hair-raisingly thrilling, day-dreamingly relaxing and breath-takingly beautiful for every traveller. In Canterbury you'll find many worlds within one region. Popular tourism destinations in Canterbury include Christchurch City, Hanmer Springs, Timaru, Lake Tekapo and Mt Hutt. more
Canterbury is the South Island’s largest region, it is the region of stark contrasts. The region is home to both New Zealand’s largest plains – the Canterbury plains with intensive pastoral farming and New Zealand’s highest mountains – Mount Cook. It is home to the South Island’s largest city of Christchurch and some of the country’s most remote wildernesses. It is a land of dramatic mountain ranges, cascading rivers, unbelievably glacial-flour-coloured lakes, rolling hills, flat plains, dramatic coastlines, glaciers, wineries and much more.
Enlarge your itinerary with Canterbury’s huge range of activities including numerous ski resorts, skydiving, bungy jumping, hot air ballooning, trout and salmon fish, chartered sea fishing, whale, dolphin and seal watching, hot-water springs, hiking, Lord of the Rings tours, farm tours, jetboating, wine tasting, glacier climbing, mountaineering, mountain biking to name only a few activities. Canterbury has a selection of activities for everyone including thrill-seekers, families, backpackers, honeymoon makers, groups and elderly.
The mid coastal region of Canterbury is dominated by the large pastoral Canterbury plains, Christchurch and numerous towns. The Canterbury plains are intensively farmed with dairy, sheep, beef and deer faming and is the economic and population centre of the South Island. The town Methven (located on the Canterbury plains at the foot of the towering mountains as they ascend dramatically out of the plain) is the gateway for the popular Mt Hutt ski resort – a thirty minute drive away.
The north is mountainous and dry, boasting most of the region’s wineries – especially in the Waipara region. Secluded in its own valley is the South Island’s most popular hot-springs resort as well as popular ski resort – Hanmer Springs. And to the far north is the popular coastal town of Kiakoura – a prime base for a host of wildlife encounters and famous for its whales, fur seals and dolphins who live permanently on this coast. Kiakoura is scenic mountainous region with a dramatic coastline showcasing many mountains descending down into the sea. Take a drive long the Kiakoura coastal highway you are sure to see many fur seals resting on the rocks.
The western inland regions (also known as “McKenzie Country”) are dry and mountainous. This region includes many of New Zealand’s alpine lakes including famous lakes of Tekapo and Pukaki – these lakes are unique in New Zealand for their distinctive glacial hue. This region is dominated by towering snow-capped mountain ranges, deep glacier cut valleys, tussock grasslands and wild gushing rivers. Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain, is found here and from it tumbles New Zealand’s longest glacier – the Tasman Glacier – measuring 27 kilometres long. Mt. Hutt is a popular ski resort found close to the Canterbury plains region. Two of the three mountain passes crossing east-west across the Southern Alps are found here namely, Arthurs Pass and Lewis Pass – these are two of the most spectacular alpine drives in the country.
Canterbury’s south is dominated by scenic rolling hills and pastoral farming. The largest town is Timaru.
Canterbury has a massive range of accommodation options encompassing five-star accommodation, budget motor lodges and motels, luxury alpine lodges and retreats, cheap backpacker accommodation, camping grounds, self-catering apartments, villas, among other options. Regardless of your needs – be it conferencing or assessable accommodation – Canterbury has the right accommodation options for you.
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Attractions and Activities
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Attractions and Activities
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123 EASY DRIVE RENTAL CARS - Nationwide
123 EASY DRIVE RENTAL CARS - Nationwide
Mobile-friendly - With facilities at Auckland Airport, Auckland City, Palmerston North, Christchurch and Dunedin we've got both islands covered. Hotel pick-ups, maps, touring guides and nationwide roadside assistance are all free. Take your pick of transport options from economical hatchbacks through to large station wagons, 4WDs and people movers..
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- AUCKLAND +64 9 256 9430; CHRISTCHURCH + 64 3 358 2299
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- 0508 112 233 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- HEAD OFFICE: Manu Tapu Drive, Auckland International Airport 2022; 60 - 64 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland; 232 Roydvale Ave, Burnside, Christchurch, New Zealand
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40 THORNYCROFT STREET BED & BREAKFAST - Christchurch
40 THORNYCROFT STREET BED & BREAKFAST - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Centrally located, six minutes from Christchurch International Airport, eight minutes to city centre. Extremely quiet and luxurious. Pristine, modern two-storey house with underfloor heating, set in serene, attractive garden and relaxing courtyard. Two comfortably appointed bedrooms with own private bathrooms. Many extra touches. Gourmet breakfast, private reading/sitting room. Free wireless internet. Off-street parking.
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- +64 3 351 8228
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- +64 27 431 3348
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- 40 Thornycroft Street, Fendalton, Christchurch, New Zealand
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4x4 ADVENTURES - LORD OF THE RINGS TOURS - Christchurch, Canterbury
4x4 ADVENTURES - LORD OF THE RINGS TOURS - Christchurch, Canterbury
Exclusive chauffeured / guided off-road Lord of the Rings and Custom Made tours from Christchurch. One day to six weeks throughout the Southern Alps and South Island. Friendly experienced hosts, small groups (Min 2-max 8). Magnificent views guaranteed, no crowds or coaches, unlimited photo stops, homemade refreshments and meals, homely Kiwi accommodation. We also offer Mountain Bike and Self-Drive Tours.
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- +64 3 323 9071
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- +64 27 549 3984
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- Russley, Christchurch Canterbury, New Zealand.
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ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS SOUTHERN LAKES TOURS - South Island
ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS SOUTHERN LAKES TOURS - South Island
Mobile-friendly - Welcome to Absolutely Fabulous Southern Lakes Tours! Ideal for couples or family groups of all ages. Very family friendly with no age restrictions. Four-day Lord of the Rings tours. Christchurch to Queenstown, Milford Sound and beyond plus four-day Southern Lakes Sightseeing Tours. Option to fly out of Queenstown or return to Christchurch. Tour vehicle is exclusively reserved for you.
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- +64 3 572 8025
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- +64 274 351 955
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- 50 State Highway 63, Renwick, New Zealand
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ACACIA RENTACAMPERVAN - New Zealand Wide
ACACIA RENTACAMPERVAN - New Zealand Wide
Mobile-friendly - An easy way to find the best price to rent a campervan or motorhome in New Zealand. We specialise in free and easy self-drive campervan holidays. Our objective is to assist our customers in achieving their ideal holiday through efficient methods of holiday planning. In all, we ensure that you will give no chance to holiday disappointments.
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- +64 9 889 4264
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- 0800 112 828 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 12A Elliot Street, Howick, Auckland, New Zealand
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ACCOSY HOSTEL - Christchurch
ACCOSY HOSTEL - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Situated on Racecourse Road, Accosy Hostel offers quality and affordable non-smoking Christchurch Backpackers accommodation. Conveniently located just 8 minutes from Christchurch International Airport, and 9 minutes from the city centre, this accommodation option Free UNLIMITED UltraFast WiFi, Free On-site & Off-Street Parking, quiet and peaceful environment. Late check in available. Wheelchair and disability friendly premises.
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- +64 3 960 9889
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- +64 21 232 7080
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- 130 Racecourse Road, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch, New Zealand
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ACE RENTAL CARS - Nationwide
ACE RENTAL CARS - Nationwide
Mobile-friendly - Ace Rental Cars is New Zealand's largest locally owned rental car company.Rent the experience. All our vehicles are fully serviced and maintained every 6 months. Ace Rental Cars now operate seventeen branches across fifteen cities throughout Australia and New Zealand. In addition to the core fleet of older vehicles, the company also provide a Premium fleet, featuring brand new vehicles.
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- +64 9 303 3112
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- 0800 502 277 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 39 - 43 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand
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ACTIVE ADVENTURES NEW ZEALAND - Nationwide
ACTIVE ADVENTURES NEW ZEALAND - Nationwide
Mobile-friendly - We're Kiwis, and since 1996 we've looked after active people with legendary hospitality in the stunning New Zealand outdoors. If you’re into hiking, paddling and biking through parks, valleys, bays and backroads, then join us on one of our hand-crafted trips. Explore the local spots, enjoy the highest level of personal service and share plenty of laughs along the way.
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- +64 3 450 0414 or Freephone: 1800 661 9073 (USA or Canada); 0808 234 7780 (UK); 1800 661 907 (Australia)
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- Nationwide - based in Queenstown, New Zealand
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ADDINGTON CITY MOTEL - Christchurch
ADDINGTON CITY MOTEL - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Addington City Motel is opposite the Horncastle Arena, the Addington Racecourse, and of course the AMI Stadium. Our spacious family units & studio units are the closest ground floor units to the Railway Station and Addington Shops/Restaurants/Bars. Free Unlimited WiFi and Local Phone Calls, and Free Shuttle to/from Railway Station and Casino in City Centre. (Conditions Apply.) CBD 2.5km away.
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- +64 3 338 8745
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- 0800 687 776 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 241 Lincoln Road, Addington, Christchurch, New Zealand
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ADVENTURE SOUTH NZ - Nationwide
ADVENTURE SOUTH NZ - Nationwide
Mobile-friendly - Adventure South NZ run fully supported, fully guided, small group Cycling and Hiking Tours. From the stunning Alps to Ocean Cycle trail, to Road Cycling in the North Island and Hiking in the Marlborough Sounds, we have something for all active adventurers. Our tours include expert guides, support vehicle and transport, accommodation, snacks and most meals.
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- +64 3 942 1222
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- 1866 479 9827 (USA), 0800 001 166 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 29 Iversen Terrace, Christchurch, New Zealand
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ADVENTURE TRAILRIDES - Christchurch
ADVENTURE TRAILRIDES - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Enjoy the thrills of offroad motorcycle and quadbike fun, riding the best high country trails in New Zealand. Trails suitable for novice to experienced riders. Coaching can be arranged for beginners. Includes transport from Christchurch, all riding gear, experienced guide, snacks, drink, latest model trail and quad bikes from 100cc to 450cc. Half-day/day tours departing daily all year.
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- +64 27 451 0584
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- PO Box 20233, Bishopdale, Christchurch, New Zealand
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ADVENTURE TRAILRIDES CORPORATE TOURS - Christchurch
ADVENTURE TRAILRIDES CORPORATE TOURS - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Adventure Trailrides New Zealand offer corporate tours allowing us to put your team through their paces on an enduro motorcycle or atv quad bike in Christchurch. Our tours are suitable for beginners with coaching available and we can cater for up to 16 people. Single or multi-day options are available as well as lunch or corporate meals.
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- +64 27 451 0584
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- PO Box 20233, Bishopdale, Christchurch, New Zealand
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AFFORDABLE MOTORHOMES - Nationwide
AFFORDABLE MOTORHOMES - Nationwide
Discover New Zealand at your own pace. We offer our valued customers a range of motorhomes and campervans, which are fully equipped with independent heating, pressurised hot and cold water, bed linen, towels, cutlery, crockery, and other kitchen utensils. To accommodate different party sizes, our motorhomes and campervans are available in models that range from 2 to 6 berths.
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- +64 3 360 3587
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- 0800 223 304 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- CHRISTCHURCH: 480 Johns Road, Harewood; AUCKLAND: 2 Doncaster Street, Mangere, Auckland, New Zealand
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AIGANTIGHE ART GALLERY - Timaru
AIGANTIGHE ART GALLERY - Timaru
The Aigantighe Art Museum (pronounced 'egg and tie') in Timaru, New Zealand is renowned internationally for its collection and innovative exhibition and education programmes. Aigantighe holds New Zealand, Pacific, Asian and European art works from the sixteenth century to the present day. Its British Victorian painting collection is of great significance.
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- 49 Wai-iti Rd, Timaru, New Zealand
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AIR CHATHAMS - Chatham Islands, New Zealand
AIR CHATHAMS - Chatham Islands, New Zealand
Mobile-friendly - Air Chathams has been bringing NZ's regional communities together by air for over 30 years. Privately-owned by Craig and Marion Emeny of the Chatham Islands, the airline provides a convenient, quality and reliable service that has cemented its reputation for looking after people. Flights to and from Whakatane, Whanganui, the Kapiti Coast and the Chathams Islands. NZ-wide speciality charters available.
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- +64 9 257 0261
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- 0800 580 127 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- North Road, Te One, Chatham Islands, New Zealand
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AIR MILFORD - Queenstown
AIR MILFORD - Queenstown
Mobile-friendly - Air Milford proudly operates the only brand new Cessna Caravan aircraft. This aircraft offers leather seating, quiet air conditioned comfort and great viewing for all passengers. It is one of the safest aircraft flying today. Eco-tours, aircraft charters, fishing, hunting and personalised tours. Flights to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, the Southern Alps and Glaciers.
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- +64 3 442 2351
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- 0800 462 252 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 1 Tex Smith Lane, Frankton, Queenstown, New Zealand
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AIR RANGITATA - Mid Canterbury
AIR RANGITATA - Mid Canterbury
Scenic flights over the South Island's spectacular Southern Alps. Our high wing Cessna seats five and provides fantastic viewing and photo opportunities. Enjoy unimpeded views as you fly through a landscape of unbelievable grandeur and beauty. Scenic routes include Mt Cook & West Coast Glaciers and the Rangitata Headwaters. Airport transfers from Christchurch to Queenstown or anywhere in between.
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- +64 3 696 3848
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- +64 27 473 2581
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- 372 Rangitata Terrace Road, Ashburton, New Zealand Make an Enquiry
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AIR SAFARIS AND SERVICES - Lake Tekapo & Franz Josef
AIR SAFARIS AND SERVICES - Lake Tekapo & Franz Josef
Mobile-friendly - Spectacular and unforgettable Grand Traverse scenic flights of the Mount Cook and Westland World Heritage Parks. Explore the alpine wonderland of New Zealand's highest mountains and largest glaciers on this incredible flightseeing experience. Depart hourly from Lake Tekapo, Glentanner Park and Franz Josef on modern, well equipped aircraft. All window seats.
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- +64 3 680 6880
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- 0800 723 274 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- PO Box 71, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand Make an Enquiry
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AIR SAFARIS HELICOPTERS - Lake Tekapo
AIR SAFARIS HELICOPTERS - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Air Safaris offers a range of helicopter flights from Lake Tekapo. All with a snow or alpine landing. Choose from the 30 minute Explorer, the 45 minute Grandeur or the 60 minute Magic. See New Zealand’s tallest mountains and longest glaciers up close.
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- +64 3 680 6880
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- 0800 806 880 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- PO Box 71, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand Make an Enquiry
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AKAROA FOX II SAILING AND WILDLIFE TOURS - Akaroa
AKAROA FOX II SAILING AND WILDLIFE TOURS - Akaroa
Sail with dolphins on New Zealand's oldest ketch—Fox II. See penguins, seals, albatross, and other sea birds. A real sailing experience; as crew, or just relax. Quiet, eco-friendly green boat, two masts, six red sails. Food, refreshments, complimentary coffee/tea. 2.5 hour cruise, departing 10:30am and 1:15pm from Dalys Wharf, Akaroa late Dec-May. Satisfaction guaranteed! Private charters. Company functions. Weddings.
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- +64 27 414 4879
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- 0800 369 7245 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- Akaroa Harbour, Canterbury, New Zealand
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AKAROA FRENCH CONNECTION - Christchurch
AKAROA FRENCH CONNECTION - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Akaroa French Connection Services connect with harbour cruises, dolphin swimming, sea-kayaking, horse-treks and local tours. Your journey includes comfortable coach transport, free pick-up from inner-city accommodation, refreshment and photo stops en-route, informative driver commentary and a 'drive through introduction' of the charming Akaroa Village. Come and experience Akaroa and enjoy a spectacular scenic drive across picturesque Banks Peninsula with us!
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- 0800 800 575 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 47 Riccarton Road, Christchurch, New Zealand
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AKAROA GUIDED KAYAK SAFARIS - Akaroa
AKAROA GUIDED KAYAK SAFARIS - Akaroa
Mobile-friendly - Akaroa Guided Kayak Safaris sea kayaking tours are based in the stunning French seaside town of Akaroa, one of the best locations to sea kayak in NZ, with neon blue and green water and untouched marine reserve. We provide guided 5-star kayaking tours that are Serene, Special, Spectacular and Safe! Our local, knowledgeable guides are the best in the business.
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- +64 21 1564 591
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- Rue Lavaud, Akaroa, New Zealand
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AKAROA SAILING CRUISES - Akaroa, Banks Peninsula
AKAROA SAILING CRUISES - Akaroa, Banks Peninsula
We provide the only environmentally sustainable and exciting harbour cruise around Akaroa Harbour. Enjoy an encounter with wildlife, on their terms, without disrupting their environment. Our 47-foot classic ocean sailing yacht, Manutara, is one of the last A-Class keelers built. Enjoy a 2.5-hour sail experience cruise around Akaroa Harbour, with basic, personal sail training included.
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- +64 21 253 1933
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- 0800 724 528 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- Main Wharf, Akaroa, Banks Peninsula, New Zealand
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AKAROA TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK - Akaroa, Banks Peninsula
AKAROA TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK - Akaroa, Banks Peninsula
Mobile-friendly - Stunning views across the majestic Akaroa harbour, and only a 300-metre walk to the main street—the ideal getaway from busy city life. Only an 85 kilometre drive from Christchurch. A full range of campsite facilities including a swimming pool, BBQ area and TV Lounge. Accommodation catering to all needs, from self contained units to budget cabins to spacious camp sites.
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- +64 3 304 7471
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- 0800 727 525 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 96 Morgans Road (off Old Coach Road), Akaroa 7542, New Zealand
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AKAROA TOURS & TRANSFERS - Akaroa, Banks Peninsula
AKAROA TOURS & TRANSFERS - Akaroa, Banks Peninsula
Mobile-friendly - Akaroa Tours & Transfers offer local, knowledgeable, scenic tours. Scenic Guide, Philip Narbey, provides cruise ship passenger tours, transfers to and from Christchurch. Sports group transport. Cruise shore trips. Exclusive small group tours. Corporate & Conference transfers. Banks Peninsula Track transfers from Christchurch to Akaroa and return.
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- +64 27 4326 204
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- 19 Selwyn Ave, Akaroa, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury, New Zealand
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View 614 events near Canterbury
Fireside Stories with The Unicorn
Cosy up by the fire for spontaneous stories with The Unicorn. Bespoke narratives tailored made to suit. A glittering literate cabaret of together storytelling. Connecting in a disconnected age. Also, it’s ...
Where: darkroom, Christchurch
Address: 336 St Asaph Street, Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Sunday 26th May 2019
To: 8:15pm on Sunday 16th June 2019
Juliet & Romeo
Juliet & Romeo... like Romeo & Juliet but faster, better, stronger. ‘[A two-hour Shakespeare play?] Ain’t nobody got time for that!’ - Kimberly "Sweet Brown" Wilkins We’ve taken a literature classic and ...
Where: D4, Christchurch, Christchurch
Address: Unit D4, 10 Garlands Rd, Woolston, Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Thursday 16th May 2019
To: 9:00pm on Sunday 26th May 2019
In Session
Blackboard Theatre Collective presents a cabaret development season... Eight acts, four double bills, one week. Witness Christchurch's most-talented storytellers take the stage using music and song to present ...
Where: Halo Bar & Lounge, Christchurch
Address: 66B Wharenui Road, Christchurch
From: 6:30pm on Tuesday 21st May 2019
To: 9:00pm on Sunday 26th May 2019
Luke O’shea
Direct from Australia multi-award winning singer/songwriter Luke O’shea Joined with New Zealand’s own Phil Doublet.
Where: A Rolling Stone, Christchurch
Address: 579 Colombo St, Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Sunday 26th May 2019
To: 10:00pm on Sunday 26th May 2019
Richard Gilewitz - American Fingerstyle Wizard
For over three decades, American fingerstyle wizard Richard Gilewitz has fascinated listeners with 6 and 12-string finger gymnastics while spinning enchanting yarns of a seasoned raconteur. His signature playing ...
Where: Christchurch Folk Music Club, Christchurch
Address: 29 Domain Terrace, Spreydon, Christchurch
From: 7:30pm on Sunday 26th May 2019
To: 9:30pm on Sunday 26th May 2019
Beers and Pool
Come Down with a friend of two buy Four Wakachangi and get half hour free pool hire.
Where: The Common Room , Christchurch
Address: 119 Riccarton Rd , Christchurch
From: 3:00pm on Wednesday 8th May 2019
To: 11:00pm on Wednesday 31st July 2019
Christchurch Astro Tours
Christchurch Astro Tours are proud to introduce you to the southern night sky. Operating from Springston Community Centre, a mere 30 minutes south of central Christchurch, we start our night with a short talk, before ...
Where: Christchurch Astro Tours, Springston, Selwyn
Address: 11 Leeston Rd, Springston, Selwyn
From: 9:00pm on Friday 26th April 2019
To: 10:30pm on Sunday 29th September 2019
Sue Nicholson - Earth, Life & Beyond
The Star of Sensing Murder Series Sue Nicholson presents her Sensational NEW live show Earth, Life & Beyond. Sue’s abilities have been seen on TVNZ’s ‘Sensing Murder’, the ‘Good Morning’ show and 20/20. ...
Where: Rangiora Town Hall Small Theatre, Rangiora, Waimakariri
Address: High St, Rangiora, Waimakariri
From: 7:00pm on Monday 27th May 2019
To: 10:00pm on Monday 27th May 2019
Black Grace: 20for20
Back by popular demand, Black Grace presents 20for20, a 20-centre tour of NZ from Kaitaia to Christchurch for $20 a ticket. Led by Neil Ieremia, internationally renowned dance company, Black Grace, shares a mix of ...
Where: Papa Hou, Christchurch
Address: 12 Hereford, Christchurch
From: 7:30pm on Monday 27th May 2019
To: 8:30pm on Monday 27th May 2019
Sweet Liquorice
Do come along all you Jazz Lovers and sit and enjoy Sweet Liquorice plus great food.
Where: Distinction Hotel, Christchurch
Address: 14 Cathedral Square, Christchurch
From: 6:30pm on Saturday 30th March 2019
To: 9:30pm on Monday 27th May 2019
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Discover Canterbury
Read key information and facts about the Canterbury region...
Discover Canterbury
Canterbury Scenic Highlights
Discover the major natural attractions and scenic wonders of the Canterbury region...
Canterbury Scenic Highlights
Canterbury Activity Highlights
Read about the major activities and attractions in the Canterbury region...