Best Things to Do in Canterbury

Canterbury is one of the most expansive and diverse regions in Aotearoa – New Zealand, stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Southern Alps. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Canterbury, you’ll quickly discover a land of contrasts where it’s easy to move from coastal towns to alpine villages in just a few hours. Each part of Canterbury has its own unique character — Christchurch with its urban creativity, Kaikōura with its whales and dolphins, Hanmer Springs with its steaming pools, and the Mackenzie Basin with its turquoise lakes and endless stars.

Why Visit Canterbury?

There are endless reasons to visit Canterbury. This region offers a rare mix of variety and accessibility. In Canterbury, you can wander vibrant city markets, taste wines in rolling valleys, hike beneath glaciers and soak in thermal waters — all within one road trip. Every stop in Canterbury brings something unique, from the well-known highlights to the hidden gems, making it a place where no two days ever feel the same.

🌆 Christchurch – The Garden City

Christchurch is the beating heart of Canterbury, a place where heritage and creativity come together in a city full of life. Known as the Garden City, Christchurch offers a mix of leafy parks, colourful street art, bustling markets and modern dining. It’s more than just a gateway — Christchurch is a destination in its own right, with experiences that will surprise and inspire.

Highlights:

• Christchurch Gondola – Ride to the summit for panoramic views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour and the Southern Alps.
• Avon River Punt Ride – Glide peacefully along the Avon River through the Botanic Gardens.
• Riverside Market – A hub of local food, artisan products, and lively culture, perfect for a taste of Christchurch.
• Christchurch Sightseeing Pass – Combine top attractions like the gondola, tram and punting for one easy Christchurch experience.

👉 Read our full Christchurch guide Here

🌊 Kaikōura – Where the Mountains Meet the Sea

Kaikōura is one of Canterbury’s most unique destinations, a coastal town where towering mountains rise straight from the ocean. It’s world-famous for marine encounters — here you can see whales, dolphins and seals against a backdrop that feels almost unreal. But Kaikōura isn’t only about the ocean; it’s also about fresh seafood, stunning walks and cultural depth.

Highlights:

• Whale Watching – Join a tour to spot giant sperm whales and sometimes even orcas and humpbacks.
• Dolphin & Seal Encounters – Swim with dusky dolphins or watch fur seals basking on the rocks.
• Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway – A scenic coastal track with views of cliffs, wildlife and the vast Pacific Ocean.
• Crayfish Feasts – Kaikōura literally means “meal of crayfish,” so don’t miss tasting the local delicacy.

👉 Discover more of Kaikōura in our full guide Here

🌿 Hanmer Springs – Alpine Relaxation & Adventure

Hanmer Springs is a charming alpine village where wellbeing and adventure meet. Famous for its thermal hot pools, Hanmer is also surrounded by forests, trails and mountain views that invite both relaxation and thrill-seeking.

Highlights:

• Thermal Pools & Spa – Soak in natural hot springs or book a private spa session.
• Hanmer Forest Walks – Wander beneath towering redwoods or try one of the biking trails.
• Adventure Activities – From jet boating to bungy jumping, Hanmer has plenty of adrenaline options.
• Village Vibes – Explore cosy cafés and boutique shops in the heart of town.

👉 Find out more in our Hanmer Springs guide Here

🏔️ Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park – The Cloud Piercer

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is the alpine jewel of Canterbury, home to New Zealand’s highest mountain and landscapes of glaciers, turquoise lakes and dramatic peaks. It’s a place of mana and majesty, where every view feels larger than life.

Highlights:

• Hooker Valley Track – Cross swing bridges and alpine meadows to reach a glacial lake at the base of Aoraki.
• Tasman Glacier Lake Cruise – Get close to icebergs and New Zealand’s longest glacier on a guided trip.
• Scenic Flights – Soar above the Southern Alps for a perspective few ever forget.
• Stargazing – The Mackenzie Basin is part of the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve.

👉 Explore our complete Aoraki / Mount Cook guide Here

🍇 Waipara Wine Country – A Taste of Canterbury

Just north of Christchurch lies Waipara Wine Country, one of Canterbury’s most celebrated regions for Pinot Noir and Riesling. With sun-soaked valleys, boutique cellar doors and rolling vineyard views, it’s a place to slow down and savour.

Highlights:

• Wine Tours – Visit award-winning wineries on a guided tour or cycle between cellar doors for a more relaxed pace.
• Pinot Noir & Riesling – The area is especially known for rich Pinots and crisp, aromatic Rieslings.
• Food & Wine Pairings – Many vineyards offer platters and long lunches designed to match their wines.
• Scenic Setting – Rows of vines backed by hills and wide skies make every stop feel memorable.

🏞️ Arthur’s Pass & Castle Hill – Mountain Pass & Ancient Boulders

Arthur’s Pass is one of Canterbury’s most dramatic alpine crossings, with towering peaks, waterfalls and winding roads. Along the way, you’ll find Castle Hill, a striking limestone landscape that feels otherworldly.

Highlights:

• Scenic Drive or TranzAlpine Train – One of the world’s great journeys, winding through mountains and gorges.
• Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall – A short walk leads to a spectacular 131-metre cascade.
• Castle Hill Rocks – Massive limestone boulders set in tussock country, often called a spiritual place of stone.

👉 Experience the TranzAlpine in our full guide Here

🎣 Twizel – Fishing & Alpine Views

Twizel sits in the Mackenzie Basin, surrounded by turquoise canals and mountain backdrops. It’s best known for salmon fishing, where anglers cast lines in crystal-clear waters.

Highlights:

• Salmon Fishing – Try your luck in the famous Twizel canals, home to some of the largest salmon in New Zealand.
• Lake Ruataniwha – A hub for rowing and kayaking, with calm waters and big skies.
• Alpine Gateway – Twizel is a perfect base for exploring Aoraki / Mount Cook and nearby lakes.

🌊 Timaru – Coastal Charm

Timaru is a friendly coastal town on the South Canterbury shoreline. Known for its foreshore, family beaches and laid-back vibe, it’s a refreshing stop on the journey south.

Highlights:

• Caroline Bay – A safe swimming beach often visited by little blue penguins at dusk.
• Timaru Botanic Gardens – Established gardens filled with heritage trees and sculptures.
• South Canterbury Museum – A peek into local history and culture.

🥧 Fairlie – Famous Pies in the Mackenzie

The small town of Fairlie is a Mackenzie country icon thanks to one legendary stop: the Fairlie Bakehouse. Travellers come from all over to try their famous pies, making this a foodie pilgrimage in its own right.

Highlights:

• Fairlie Bakehouse – Renowned for delicious, generously filled pies (l tried the Pork Belly & Apple Sauce and Toni tried the smoked Chicken Pie and hand on heart-Amazing.
• Gateway to the Mackenzie – A natural stopping point en route to Tekapo or Aoraki.
• Small-Town Kiwi Vibe – A classic example of country New Zealand hospitality.

🏔️ Final Thoughts

Canterbury is a region that surprises you at every turn. You may arrive chasing mountains but stay for the coast, the empty valleys, the quirky country towns and the stories in every little place. Whether you’re drawn to glaciers, whale-watching, thermal pools, vineyards or heritage villages — the contrast here is what gives Canterbury its soul.

We’ve touched on Christchurch, Kaikōura, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Hanmer Springs, Waipara, Arthur’s Pass, Twizel, Timaru and Fairlie — but the canvas of Canterbury stretches far beyond those. There’s Akaroa & Banks Peninsula, Lake Tekapo & the Mackenzie Basin, Ashburton, Geraldine & Peel Forest and Lake Coleridge waiting to be explored.

Take your time. Let the roads curve you toward unexpected stops. Let silence, wind, and wide skies remind you why we travel. In Canterbury, every turn brings a new vista, every town hides a story and every day feels like a fresh page in your journey.