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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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 351955
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- 50 State Highway 63, Renwick 7204, 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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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 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
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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 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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ALBATROSS ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
ALBATROSS ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Kaikoura has the greatest number of different seabirds in a small area. View these birds in their natural environment. Birds include albatross, petrels, shearwaters, terns, shags and gulls. Experience the sensation of getting close to the mighty albatross, one of the world's largest flight birds.
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- +64 (0)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 (0) 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 CRAZY PUTT AND VILLAGE CRUISERS - Hanmer Springs
ALPINE CRAZY PUTT AND VILLAGE CRUISERS - Hanmer Springs
Mobile-friendly - Hanmer Springs' central mini golf course is located just past the Heritage Hotel and this course has been recently rebuilt with lots of new and exciting holes! This is also your starting point for the Village Cruisers. Families have been enjoying our bikes for 17 years! A fun form of transport to get around Hanmer Springs designed for 4-6 people!
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- +64 3 315 5177
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- +64 27 256 4867
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- 1 Conical Hill Road, Hanmer Springs, North Canterbury, New Zealand
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View 729 events near Canterbury
The Niamh Show presents 'GAP YEARZ'
Are you thinking about a Gap Year? Have you been on a Gap Year? Has your life turned into a series of Gap Yearz? Niamh's currently on her fourth. "A funny show about sex, drugs and yoga." - NZ Fringe audience member ...
Where: darkroom, Christchurch
Address: 336 St Asaph Street, Christchurch
From: 7:30pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
To: 8:30pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
Zirka Circus
Zirka Circus, New Zealand's premium circus, is proud to bring you its 5th tour "La Unica" and it's more spectacular than ever. Zirka Circus has successfully been entertaining families in NZ for more than ten years and ...
Where: Zirka Big Top, Christchurch
Address: Cnr Memorial Avenue & State Highway One, Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
To: 6:15pm on Sunday 31st March 2019
Doc Ranger Guided Walks to Devils Punchbowl
To book please contact the Arthur's Pass National Park Visitors Centre on +64 3 318 9211 or arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz Feel the full force and sound of fresh mountain water falling 131m down one of New Zealand’s ...
Where: Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre, Arthur's Pass, Selwyn
Address: 80 W Coast Rd, Arthur's Pass, Selwyn
From: 1:30pm on Monday 12th November 2018
To: 3:00pm on Tuesday 30th April 2019
Guided Walks With Doc Ranger
To book please contact the Arthur's Pass National Park Visitors Centre on +64 3 318 9211 or arthurspassvc@doc.govt.nz Treasure from afar, the grand limestone pillars in the Waimakariri basin led early European ...
Where: Kura Tawhiti Castle Hill, Castle Hill, Selwyn
Address: 8557 W Coast Rd, Castle Hill, Selwyn
From: 10:30am on Monday 12th November 2018
To: 3:00pm on Tuesday 30th April 2019
Make Your Own Kimchi Workshop: POSTPONED
In light of recent events, we have decided to postpone this workshop until further notice. For those of you who have already bought tickets, thank you - we will be in touch. We are heartbroken and devastated this week, ...
Where: My Home Chef, Christchurch
Address: 12 Sledmere Street, Burnside, Christchurch
From: 6:00pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
To: 8:30pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
Daniel Champagne
Christchurch - the young virtuoso recently described as 'the finest guitar player of this generation' brings his world tour to Blue Smoke for one intimate concert on March 21! Tix just $20 but very limited, don’t miss ...
Where: Blue Smoke, Christchurch
Address: 3 Garlands Road, Woolston, Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
To: 10:00pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
NO Productions: River Ghost
Love a good ghost story? NO Productions Theatre has a new treat for you! Written by David Allen and directed by Eilish Moran, this absorbing supernatural thriller is set in 19th century New Zealand, on the banks of ...
Where: Orange Studios, Christchurch
Address: 3/1063 Ferry Rd, Woolston, Christchurch
From: 7:30pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
To: 9:00pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
Charmian Hughes What-Not
Only Christchurch show! What-Not: a word for things overlooked and abandoned What-Not: a set of shelves for all your what-nots What-Not: the word for people there isn’t a word for What-Not: Charmian ...
Where: Kensington Fun House, Christchurch
Address: 185 Manchester St, Christchurch
From: 8:00pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
To: 9:30pm on Thursday 21st March 2019
Fighting With My Family - Movie
Fighting With My Family - Movie Based on a true story, Fighting With My Family follows reformed gangster Ricky, wife Julia, daughter Paige and son Zak as they make a living wrestling together in tiny venues. When ...
Where: Hoyts Northlands, Christchurch
Address: Northlands Shopping Centre, Main North Rd, Papanui, Christchurch
From: 9:00am on Thursday 21st March 2019
To: 9:00pm on Sunday 21st April 2019
Fighting With My Family - Movie
Fighting With My Family - Movie Based on a true story, Fighting With My Family follows reformed gangster Ricky, wife Julia, daughter Paige and son Zak as they make a living wrestling together in tiny venues. When ...
Where: Reading Cinemas The Palms, Christchurch
Address: Cnr New Brighton & Marshlands Roads, Shirley, Christchurch
From: 9:00am on Thursday 21st March 2019
To: 9:00pm on Sunday 21st April 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...