Canterbury Holidays

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Top destinations in Canterbury

A cityscape with modern buildings, a construction site, and a distinctive blue sculpture.

Christchurch

Christchurch
A lake with purple flowers in the foreground, a turquoise sea, and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo
A mountain range with autumn foliage in the foreground.

Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs
A coastal area with boats docked at a pier, a small building, and mountains in the background.

Twizel

Twizel
A coastal landscape with mountains in the background and a turquoise sea in the foreground.

Kaikōura

Kaikōura
A paved path leading through a grassy field towards snow-capped mountains.

Mount Cook

Mount Cook
A turquoise lake surrounded by green hills and mountains.

Akaroa

Akaroa
A river winding through a valley with a mountain in the background.

Methven

Methven

Where to stay in Canterbury

Find the best Canterbury areas for the activities you enjoy most.Learn more about Canterbury
Learn more about Canterbury
A colorful street with a tram, outdoor cafes, and a restaurant named "The Nook Thai".
A modern glass building with a large statue on top.
A stone bridge over a reflective water body at night, with a large illuminated archway in the background.
A riverside wooden dock with green and white striped buildings, a calm water body, and trees in the background.
A bridge over a canal with trees and buildings in the background.

Christchurch City Centre

Explore the picturesque and vibrant heart of the city that is getting back to normal after a series of devastating earthquakes.

An airport runway with surrounding fields and buildings.
Two red buses with tracks parked on grass.
A red train with 'Christchurch' written on it parked in front of a building with large windows and a 'Café' sign.
Photo by Mel Fekto
A museum exhibit with a tent, sled, and snow-covered landscape.
A polar bear, a snowy mountain, and a red vehicle on display.

Christchurch Airport

While Christchurch Airport may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like International Antarctic Centre and Russley Golf Club.

A large, historic house with red trim and multiple chimneys.
A greenhouse surrounded by lush greenery and a well-maintained lawn.
A park with a pond covered in lily pads, surrounded by lush trees and a fountain.
A park with a bench, a bridge, and trees.
A forested path with a wooden fence on one side and a lamppost in the center.

Riccarton

Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.

A cityscape with a mix of modern and historic buildings, surrounded by green parks and a river.
A stone church with a steeple and a bell tower.

Merivale

Travellers come to Merivale for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Merivale Mall and Papanui Road while you're in town.

A coastal landscape with mountains, a bay, and a small town.
A building with a sign reading "jailhouse accommodation" and a green gate.
Photo by chickbill

Addington

Unique features of Addington include the theatres and live music. Make a stop by Apollo Projects Stadium or Addington Raceway while you're exploring the area.

Things to do in Canterbury

Canterbury offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventures, making it ideal for a memorable vacation. Visitors can enjoy skiing at local ski fields, exploring picturesque hiking trails, and engaging in outdoor experiences like paddleboard rentals. For a touch of seaside fun, the region boasts lively bars and options for Kent walking holidays, ensuring a vibrant mix of relaxation and excitement for all travellers.

Shopping

Papanui Road offers a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of family and city vibes, perfect for finding unique gifts. New Regent Street and Merivale Mall provide a blend of business and entertainment, ensuring a delightful shopping adventure for souvenirs during your stay in Canterbury.

Recreation

Unwind at Hot Tubs Omarama, where you can soak in luxurious hot tubs surrounded by stunning scenery. Visit Mount John Observatory for a captivating stargazing experience, perfect for families. For a more active retreat, head to New Brighton Skatepark, where wellness meets recreation in a vibrant outdoor setting.

Adventure

Experience the thrills of Mount Lyford Ski Field, where you can indulge in skiing amidst stunning alpine scenery. For hiking enthusiasts, the Cowans Hill Walkway offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. Roundhill Ski Area promises more skiing excitement, perfect for sports lovers seeking adventure.

Nightlife

In Christchurch, the heart of Canterbury, enjoy vibrant nightlife at venues like the iconic Christchurch Casino and lively bars in the Strip on Victoria Street. Explore craft breweries and cocktail lounges in the central city, while live music flourishes at spots like The Foundry, creating an energetic atmosphere for all.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Canterbury

Canterbury, New Zealand, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking cultural experiences amidst stunning scenery. Explore beautiful lakes, beaches, and parks, while also discovering historic sites like the Canterbury Cathedral and Canterbury Museum. Don’t miss the chance for mountain getaways and visiting top attractions that showcase the region's charm and natural beauty.

  • Mount Cook National Park: Experience the breathtaking scenery and adventure vibes of New Zealand's highest peak. Enjoy hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas, alpine lakes, and the chance to spot native wildlife amidst dramatic mountain landscapes.
  • Sumner Beach: Relax at Sumner Beach, where golden sands meet the vibrant blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. This popular spot is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the laid-back beach atmosphere, complemented by nearby cafés and shops.
  • Lake Pukaki: Discover the enchanting beauty of Lake Pukaki, renowned for its striking turquoise waters and picturesque views of Mount Cook. Ideal for romantic strolls and outdoor activities, the lake's serene setting is perfect for capturing unforgettable photographs.

Best time to go to Canterbury

The best time to visit Canterbury is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January62.1°F (16.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
February61.5°F (16.400000000000002°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March58.5°F (14.7°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June45.1°F (7.300000000000001°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August45.5°F (7.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September48.0°F (8.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
December59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Canterbury

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically May to June and August) for more affordable package holidays to Canterbury.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Top hotels in Canterbury

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch

165 Cashel Street Christchurch
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
S$62
27 Sept - 28 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,021 reviews)
"Great location very helpful staff"

Reviewed on 9 Sept, 2026

BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
LyLo Christchurch Airport

LyLo Christchurch Airport

5 Peter Leeming Road Christchurch
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
S$82
13 Sept - 14 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very good! (1,002 reviews)
"."

Reviewed on 12 Sept, 2026

LyLo Christchurch Airport
Lakes Edge Lodge

Lakes Edge Lodge

2 Lakeside Dr Lake Tekapo Canterbury Region
S$112
13 Sept - 14 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (30 reviews)
"its nice and clean."

Reviewed on 4 Sept, 2026

Lakes Edge Lodge
See all 2,766 properties in Canterbury
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Canterbury holiday package cost?
Get ready to book, because a trip to Canterbury starts from just . When you combine your flights, hotels and more into a holiday package, you'll walk away with the biggest bargains.
How do I get a cheap travel package to Canterbury?
You'll save loads of cash if you combine your flights, hotels and car rentals into a Canterbury holiday package. Sometimes cheap packages mean fewer options. But not with Expedia. We offer more than 550 air carriers and 1,000,000 hotels worldwide, so you'll always have plenty of variety to choose from. Want to save even more? Add some popular activities to your package deal to unlock even bigger discounts! After all, travel is about more than simply getting to your destination.
Where should I stay in Canterbury?
Christchurch is an awesome place to visit. Here, you'll find impressive sights such as Lyttelton Harbour and New Brighton Beach. Mount Hutt also attracts many wanderers eager to check out some of the best attractions in Canterbury. Some of the best are Canterbury Museum and Mona Vale.
What are the top hotels in Canterbury?
For hotels in Christchurch with comfy beds and friendly service, you can't beat Novotel Christchurch Airport and Sudima Christchurch Airport. If you're visiting Hanmer Springs as well, you can look forward to a good night's sleep at Sudima Christchurch Airport or The George Christchurch.
How far in advance should I book my Canterbury holiday?
While not all air carriers advertise tickets early, you can usually look up international fares on Expedia up to a year in advance. This is the time you can bag some fantastic bargains. If you're purchasing tickets last minute, you may still be in luck. Discounted prices occasionally become available a few weeks before departure.
What does an Expedia Canterbury travel package include?
Choose from any combination of rental cars, hotels and flights. Once you've made your booking, you can add the fun stuff like activities and experiences. Want to pick your fare class? That's easy to do too. The choice is yours when it comes to organising your dream Canterbury getaway.
What should I know before booking a Canterbury travel package?
A travel package can be tailored to your budget and is a fantastic way to stretch your hard-earned dollars. How little or much you include is your call. Hotels, rental cars and flights — decide on a combination that suits your style.
Can I choose my airline with a Canterbury Expedia holiday package?
You can, and with over 550 airlines to choose from all over the world, you've got lots of choice. Have a look through the available options and find out which airline best fits your needs and budget.
If I'm not able to travel, can I cancel my Canterbury holiday package?
Because we understand life is full of surprises, the answer is yes. For further information, check out our Customer Service Portal. But generally speaking, if you've booked your package in the last 24 hours, you may be able to change or cancel it free of charge. Your airline, hotel or car rental company may impose a fee if you made your booking a while ago.

Stay near popular Canterbury attractions

A mountain path with snow-capped peaks and green vegetation.

Aoraki / Mount Cook

9.6/10 (613 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Aoraki / Mount Cook and enjoy the stunning glacier views during your trip to Mount Cook. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.
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A winding road through a mountainous landscape with a lake and snow-capped peaks in the background.

Mount Cook National Park

9.8/10 (179 reviews)
Ski on a glacier, enjoy hot springs and tackle the peak where Sir Edmund Hillary trained for Everest in this spectacular part of New Zealand.
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A coastal town with a harbor, mountains in the background, and a clear sky.

Lyttelton Harbour

8.6/10 (1,052 reviews)
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

Lake Pukaki

9.6/10 (937 reviews)
Be amazed by the color of the lake against the snowy backdrop of Aoraki/Mount Cook as you hike, drive or ride through this incredibly picturesque landscape.
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A calm river with trees and grass on both sides.
Photo by Paolo Corrales

Hagley Park

9.2/10 (2,450 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.
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A swimming pool with a mountainous backdrop.
Photo by chickbill

Tekapo Springs

9.0/10 (453 reviews)
Lie back and relax in healing waters, enjoy a massage or get involved in a range of outdoor activities, all with a fabulous alpine backdrop.
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Wolfbrook Arena

8.6/10 (227 reviews)
Catch an event at Wolfbrook Arena during your trip to Christchurch. Make time for the shops and local tours in this walkable area.
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What to do in Canterbury

Whale watching in Winter

Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat

S$136
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat
Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

S$106
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise
Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

S$700
per adult
Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike
See all activities in Canterbury

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.