New ZealandFrom a rebuilt, creative Christchurch to the highest peak in the country, Canterbury covers plains, braided rivers, turquoise lakes, whale-watching and some of the darkest night skies on earth.
Highlights
- Aoraki / Mount Cook New Zealand’s highest mountain (3,724 m); the Hooker Valley Track is an easy, unforgettable walk.
- Lake Tekapo and the dark sky reserve Stargazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
- Kaikōura Whales, dolphins and seals close to shore, with mountains behind.
- Akaroa A harbour town with French roots and Hector’s dolphins.
- Christchurch Street art, the Botanic Gardens, punting on the Avon and new city-centre architecture.
Best time to go
Summer for lakes and walks; November to December for lupins; winter for skiing at Mt Hutt and stargazing on long clear nights.
Getting there
Christchurch Airport is the main South Island gateway, with international flights. Aoraki / Mount Cook village is about four hours’ drive from Christchurch.
Main towns
Christchurch, Akaroa, Kaikōura, Tekapo, Twizel, Hanmer Springs, Timaru