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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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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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 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand
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ACTIVE ADVENTURES
ACTIVE ADVENTURES
Mobile-friendly - We’re Kiwis, and for 25 years we’ve been adventuring in the stunning New Zealand outdoors with guests from Tauranga to Texas. If you have 2 days or 2 weeks, are after bucket-list destinations or venturing into the back country, we’ll find your perfect adventure. And with our Active Adventure Assurance, date changes and trip switches are easy as.
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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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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
Within our family business, which has been operating for over 23 years, we offer our valued customers a range of self-contained SleeperVans, Campervans and Motorhomes. They are equipped with a house battery, solar panels, linen, cutlery, crockery, and kitchen utensils. Our Campervan and Motorhomes have independent heating and hot water. We also offer free collection from Christchurch and Auckland Airports.
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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 AGENT: 2 Beach Road, Otahuhu, Auckland.
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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 FORCE MUSEUM OF NEW ZEALAND - Christchurch
AIR FORCE MUSEUM OF NEW ZEALAND - Christchurch
Discover New Zealand's military aviation story at the place where it all began. Engage with stories of the men and women who have helped shape New Zealand's military aviation journey, and reflect on their service and sacrifice through years of war and peace. FREE Admission, open daily (except Christmas Day), 10.00am-5.00pm.
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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. Family owned and operated, with a 100% safety record. 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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- 3 Tex Smith Lane, Frankton, Queenstown, New Zealand
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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 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, New Zealand
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AKAROA VILLAGE INN - Akaroa
AKAROA VILLAGE INN - Akaroa
Mobile-friendly - Immerse yourself in uniquely charming accommodation available at the picturesque Akaroa Village Inn, Banks Peninsula near Christchurch. The ultimate in Akaroa waterfront accommodation set in this seaside community with a thriving culture and fascinating marine ecosystem. Stunning seaviews from our 30 serviced apartments including two-bedroom self-catering family units, sunny courtyard units and boutique accommodation in the Old Akaroa Shipping Office.
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- +64 3 304 1111
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- 0800 695 2000 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 81 Beach Road, Akaroa, New Zealand
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ALBATROSS ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
ALBATROSS ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Viewing multiple species of albatross and other spectacular seabirds is what the Albatross Encounter tour offers. Just a short distance from shore and you will see more albatross species than in any other coastal location on earth, distinguishing Kaikoura as a unique birdwatching location. Stunning photography opportunities are guaranteed with excellent commentary from our experienced guides.
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- +64 3 319 6777
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- 0800 733 365 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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ALFORD COTTAGE - RED COTTAGES - Staveley, South Island
ALFORD COTTAGE - RED COTTAGES - Staveley, South Island
Take a break from the hustle and bustle and escape to Red Cottage in Staveley. Enjoy romantic evenings with open fires, candle light and the warm wooden ambience of this restored historical cottage. Watch the sun set over the surrounding mountains while enjoying local produce and fine wine, after a day of exploring this wonderful area.
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- +64 3 303 0970
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- 4323 Arundel Rakaia Gorge Road, Staveley, RD1 Ashburton 7771, New Zealand
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ALPACA FARM TOURS - Akaroa
ALPACA FARM TOURS - Akaroa
Mobile-friendly - Your Akaroa Alpaca Farm Tour experience takes you on a scenic-drive to the western-side of Akaroa Harbour to Shamarra Alpaca Farm. Our Akaroa alpaca farm has breathtaking views of the harbour. Alpaca farmers, Frank and Anya, will treat you to an interesting, interactive introduction to these animals (renowned for their ultra-fine fleece). Light refreshments included on your Akaroa farm tour.
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- +64 3 304 5141
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- +64 21 757 592
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- 328 Wainui Main Rd, RD 2, French Farm, Akaroa, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury, New Zealand
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ALPINE ADVENTURE HOLIDAY PARK - Hanmer Springs
ALPINE ADVENTURE HOLIDAY PARK - Hanmer Springs
Mobile-friendly - Alpine Adventure Holiday Park is situated 2.5km outside town in a quiet, bush-clad valley at the foot of Jack's Pass, the park is set on the site of an historic staging post. Offering a large range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, the park boasts the best facilities around including a pool, games room, adventure playground, and more.
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- +64 3 315 7112
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- 0800 568 563 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 200 Jacks Pass Road, Hanmer Springs, New Zealand
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ALPINE HORSE SAFARIS - Hawarden, North Canterbury
ALPINE HORSE SAFARIS - Hawarden, North Canterbury
Imagine spending your holiday on one of our exhilarating trail rides in the high country of New Zealand's South Island. Guided horse riding pack trips from two hours to twelve days though the North Canterbury high country. View spectacular scenery: snow-capped mountains, vast river flats, crystal clear lakes and rivers.
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- +64 3 314 4293
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- 0800 425 746 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- Waitohi Downs, Hawarden, North Canterbury, New Zealand
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ALPINE PACIFIC MOTELS AND HOLIDAY PARK - Kaikoura
ALPINE PACIFIC MOTELS AND HOLIDAY PARK - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Kaikoura Accommodation set in picturesque, quiet, rural setting with stunning mountain views, but still only 400 metres from Kaikoura township. Excellent selection of accommodation, cabins, en-suites and motels, with park facilities for powered campervan or tent sites. Facilities include heated pool and spas, wireless Internet and high pressure showers. 4.5 star rating for holiday park and 4 stars for Motels.
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- +64 3 319 6275
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- 0800 692 322 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 69 Beach Road, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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ALPINE RECREATION BACKCOUNTRY SKIING - Lake Tekapo
ALPINE RECREATION BACKCOUNTRY SKIING - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Go backcountry with a guide this winter to learn safe touring whether on alpine skis, nordic skis or split board. Alpine Recreation has two heated private huts, providing the ideal base for avalanche courses, spectacular touring and practising all the skills for safe navigation of unpatrolled and ungroomed slopes. All equipment except alpine touring boots and split board gear provided.
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- +64 3 680 6736
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- 0800 006 096 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- c/- Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
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ALPINE RECREATION LAKE TEKAPO SNOWSHOEING - Lake Tekapo
ALPINE RECREATION LAKE TEKAPO SNOWSHOEING - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - The Southern Alp foothills undergo magical transformation in winter. A covering of snow creates an extensive playground for trampers on snowshoes. Hike 3 hours to our cosy mountain-hut at the snowline (1280m). From here we explore a winter wonderland of ice-covered streams, curving ridges, snowy valleys, returning each night to relax by the warmth of a pot-belly stove.
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- +64 3 680 6736
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- 0800 006 096 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- c/- Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
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ALPINE RECREATION MOUNTAINEERING COURSE - Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo
ALPINE RECREATION MOUNTAINEERING COURSE - Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - Learn to climb at one of New Zealand’s best locations for a mountaineering course: Caroline Hut right opposite the awesome Caroline Face of Aoraki Mount Cook. Our professional guides will teach you not only technical skills, but also risk awareness to keep yourself safe in the challenging terrain. Alpine Recreation owns the hut and provides the gear and food.
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- +64 3 680 6736
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- 0800 006 096 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- c/- Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
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ALPINE RECREATION MT COOK TREK - Mt Cook
ALPINE RECREATION MT COOK TREK - Mt Cook
Mobile-friendly - Follow in Sir Edmund Hillary's footsteps as you climb up the Ball Ridge to view the mighty Caroline Face front-on - New Zealand's highest ice face. From Caroline Hut, your private refuge for the night, you look out over the Tasman Glacier and its surrounding peaks, the highest in New Zealand. Fit hikers love this challenge!
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- +64 3 680 6736
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- 0800 006 096 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- c/- Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
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ALPINE RECREATION TEKAPO TREK - Lake Tekapo
ALPINE RECREATION TEKAPO TREK - Lake Tekapo
Mobile-friendly - You'll be inspired by the magic light of the Mackenzie Country across golden tussock, snow-capped peaks and turquoise of Lake Tekapo, when you trek with the team at Alpine Recreation. Hike above the foothills of the Southern Alps and climb a 2070m peak, returning to a cosy mountain hut. Enjoy a star-studded evening sky on this ideal introduction to hiking.
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- +64 3 680 6736
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- 0800 006 096 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- c/- Edelweiss Lodge, 8 Erebus Place, Lake Tekapo, Canterbury, New Zealand
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A-MAZE-N-GOLF - Hanmer Springs
A-MAZE-N-GOLF - Hanmer Springs
Come solve the mystery of the Lost Temple and be in for lots of surprises along the way, or play our Gold Rush themed 18-hole mini golf course. Ask about group discounts. We are very popular for school camps, birthday parties, corporate challenges, social club events and fundraising. Located just a two-minute drive or five-minute walk from the village centre.
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- +64 3 315 7272
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- 1 Fraser Close, Hanmer Springs, New Zealand
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View 702 events near Canterbury
Miss Lyra New Zealand 2021: CANCELLED
Miss Lyra New Zealand 2021 Lyra (Aerial Hoop) competition featuring 3 divisions - Open, Group, & Amateur Saturday 25 September: 5.00pm - Doors Open 5.30pm - Amateur Category 7.15pm - Group & Open ...
Where: Halo Bar & Lounge, Christchurch
Address: 66B Wharenui Road, Christchurch
From: 5:30pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
To: 10:30pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
The Essence of Flamenco
Due to popular demand, we have opened up for two nights! We have also moved the date due to COVID alert levels. So please don't miss out and join award-winning flamenco guitarist Paul Bosauder on a journey through ...
Where: Southern Ballet Theatre, Christchurch
Address: 108 Carlyle Street, Sydenham, Christchurch
From: 8:30pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
To: 8:35pm on Sunday 26th September 2021
Alpine Ice, Ice Skating
Alpine Ice is adjusting its operations for Delta Level 2. This requires a strict 50 person limit for public sessions (spectators and skaters included). Book your public session entry ticket through Eventfinda to ...
Where: Alpine Ice Sports Centre, Christchurch
Address: 495 Brougham Street, Opawa , Christchurch
From: 2:00pm on Saturday 28th August 2021
To: 4:30pm on Sunday 26th September 2021
Spring Equinox
Dux Live & Dux Central Present: The Spring Equinox Celebrate Spring with a mad local lineup?! Let's do it! We know what you're thinking, what about Level 2? Well, we're crossing fingers and if we do happen to be at ...
Where: Dux Central, Christchurch
Address: 6 Poplar Lane, Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
To: 11:59pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
March For Life Christchurch
March For Life Christchurch Be sure to mark your calendars. - Canterbrian pro-lifers are coming together again to esteem life, and to offer hope, as we seek to build a culture of life within Canterbury. - The ...
Where: Victoria Square, Christchurch
Address: Cnr Colombo & Armagh Sts, Christchurch
From: 2:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
To: 4:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
Lord of The Rings Trilogy Movie Marathon
Introducing one movie marathon to rule them all... Come and join us in Aoraki/Mount Cook on Friday September 24th for a back to back showing of all three Lord of the Rings movies; The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two ...
Where: The Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Mt Cook, Mackenzie
Address: Terrace Road, Aoraki Mt Cook, Mackenzie
From: 7:30pm on Friday 24th September 2021
To: 1:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
Ao Tawhiti Unlimited Discovery School - Spring Fair
Come along to Ao Tawhiti's Spring Fair! Hosted at Ao Tawhiti Unlimited Discovery School! The day is filled with delicious food, astounding live music and entrainment. With our wide range of stalls, from student-run ...
Where: Ao Tawhiti, Christchurch
Address: 5 Mollett St, Christchurch
From: 10:00am on Saturday 25th September 2021
To: 2:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
Flirt
Welcome aboard. Let us take you on a musical journey on this nautical themed evening. In the main room we’ll be playing you the best in house music all night long. In the lounge bar we’ll be playing soul funk and ...
Where: The Loons, Lyttelton, Christchurch District
Address: 16 Canterbury St, Lyttelton, Christchurch District
From: 8:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
To: 3:00am on Sunday 26th September 2021
SOLE Showcase
Come to The Piano and enjoy an evening of stellar performances from our rising stars at SOLE Music Academy featuring a live band. Sole Music Academy specialises in Singing, Songwriting and Artist Development. We ...
Where: The Piano: Centre for Music and the Arts, Christchurch
Address: 156 Armagh Street , Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
To: 10:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
Red Weekend
Get your fix of quality craft beer while listening to iconic rock classics! Two Thumb have invited us back for full 3-hour set! So we've planed a great night ahead with lot's of hits from all generations and with summer ...
Where: Two Thumb Brewery, Christchurch
Address: 352 Manchester St, Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
To: 10:00pm on Saturday 25th September 2021
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Discover Canterbury
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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...