The Canterbury Region

The Canterbury region includes a large central portion of the East Coast of the South Island, centred around the city of Christchurch. The Christchurch hinterland of highly productive farmlands extends from the beaches of the east coast to the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps. Just over the hills from Christchurch, the regional port of Lyttelton has many fine examples of colonial Victorian and Edwardian architecture.

About 130km north of Christchurch is Hanmer Springs, the South Island's only thermal spa.

On the coast to the north, Kaikoura is one of the few places in the world where it is possible to view sperm whales at close-range from the shore, or take a boat ride and get up close. The seaside settlement of Kaikoura, situated midway between Christchurch and Picton on the rugged east coast of New Zealand's South Island, is overlooked by majestic mountains, which are snow-capped for many months of the year.

This unique combination of ocean and mountains offers stunning coastal alpine scenery and a host of eco-tourism oriented activities.

 Sperm whales, humpback whales, orca and a variety of dolphins live in the nutrient-rich waters off the coast of Kaikoura.

Relax and destress at Hanmer Springs thermal pools

Situated only 90 minutes drive from Christchurch or Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is an extensive thermal complex in an alpine environment with large native gardens.

The reserve offers thermal mineral, sulphur and freshwater pools, as well as a large children's activity area. Private thermal pools, sauna and steam rooms available, with licensed cafe on site also. To gain extra benefit from the thermal waters, visit the wonderful new spa for a variety of beauty and massage treatments.

West of Christchurch lies the small country town of Methven

Methven is a rural service town one hour from Christchurch Airport, just off the Inland Scenic Route 72 at the foot of Mt Hutt.

With a relaxed lifestyle, the warmth of Methven ensures you will feel welcome from the moment you arrive. In winter, Methven transforms into a ski town when thousands of visitors from around the world arrive to ski and snowboard at Mt Hutt and other nearby ski areas and mountains.

The village is also a popular summer resort where visitors are captivated by the region's mountains, back-country lakes and the great outdoors.

Bordered by braided rivers, backcountry lakes, the Pacific Ocean, and the foothills of the Southern Alps, this is a paradise for recreational hunters and anglers. Sea-run salmon in the Rakaia River bcan be caught etween November and March, and you can bag an average size of 8kg! Easily accessible, the Ashburton and Rangitata Rivers are also popular with anglers with trophy fish being regularly reported.