Getting Around

There's something new and unexpected around every corner in Canterbury, with many gems within only a few hours' drive of Christchurch! We've put together our top day trips to help you get out there and make the most of your time in the region!

Unlock the gems of North Canterbury on a 3-day itinerary or savour the magic over 5 days.

A journey around this beautiful peninsula will reward you with picturesque vistas at every turn, a thriving artisan culture and a marine environment teaming with wildlife. Come and immerse yourself in the alluring French character of Akaroa township – a seaside retreat just 90 minutes from Christchurch.

Stretching across the Canterbury Plains from the Pacific Ocean to the Southern Alps, Selwyn is home to mountain vistas, a Lord of the Rings film location, and New Zealand's highest altitude settlement, the alpine village of Arthur's Pass.

Looking for big scenery and big experiences to help you escape the mundane 9-5 gruel? You Can Do Exploration in Canterbury.

Exploring Akaroa by Foot

If there’s a backyard worth exploring, it’s ours. Soak up our picturesque region from mountains, beaches, lush pastures, and rolling hills. Grab your camera, a backpack picnic, and head to our pick of the best spots. 

From Ōtautahi Christchurch, explore the region’s scenery and be prepared to lose yourself in stunning landscapes, otherworldly vistas and the magic of Tolkien’s Middle‑earth™ brought to life.