10 TOP Things to Do in Canterbury (2026 Activity Guide)

A coastal town with houses on a hillside, boats on the water, and green hills in the background.

A clear mountain stream surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks in the background.

A mountain range at sunset, a lake, and purple lupine flowers.

A bridge over a turquoise river with purple flowers in the foreground.

A snow-covered mountain range with a valley in the foreground.

Things to do

Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat

S$136

per adult

80% of travellers recommend

Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

S$106

per adult

100% of travellers recommend

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

S$700

per adult

Lake Tekapo: Alpine Stargazing Experience with a Guide

S$90

per adult

Christchurch: Orana Wildlife Park Admission

S$30

per adult

90% of travellers recommend

Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch

S$151

per adult

96% of travellers recommend

Arthur's Pass Discovery and TranzAlpine Train - Small Group Tour

S$679

per adult

Mt Cook Supreme: 4 Glaciers with 2 Snow Landings - 60mins

S$679

per adult

Kaikōura: Zipline and Native Forest Adventure Trip

S$150

per adult

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Top places to visit

1. Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is a fantastic place to enjoy New Zealand’s winter, with skiing and snow sports, hot springs, and snow-capped mountains and glaciers sparkling in the sun. During summer, water sports and hiking are popular. Enjoy the scenic beauty while hiking near mountain peaks, beech forests and a landscape carved by glacial movement.

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A winding road through a mountainous landscape with a lake and snow-capped peaks in the background.

2. Lyttelton Harbour

The quaint harbor at Lyttelton sits on an ancient volcanic crater. The steep hills rising around the port town reach a height of 1,640 feet (500 meters), and are known as the Port Hills. In the town, you’ll find an excellent choice of restaurants, shops and cafés. Observe sea and birdlife out on the deep harbor with cruises run by local operators.

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A coastal town with a harbor, mountains in the background, and a clear sky.

3. Sumner Beach

Lie on the soft, warm sand and work on your tan or swim in the shallow waters at gorgeous Sumner Beach. Explore the iconic Cave Rock or unwind with a drink at one of the bars that overlook the ocean when you visit Christchurch’s favourite weekend destination.

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A sandy beach with a windmill, rocky outcrops, and a hillside with houses.

4. Lake Pukaki

Lake Pukaki sits below New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Combined the lake and mountain create one of the country’s most awe-inspiring vistas. When you see the ethereal, turquoise color of the water, which turns milky when the clouds roll in, you may want to pinch yourself to check if you aren’t dreaming.

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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

5. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.

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A swimming pool with a mountainous backdrop.

6. New Brighton Beach

New Brighton Beach is a great coastal retreat to visit when holidaying in Christchurch. The beach boasts about 18 kilometres (11 miles) of golden sand, stretching from the mouth of the Waimakariri River to South Spit. Activities at New Brighton Beach range from surfing in rolling waves to wildlife spotting and walking amid untamed landscapes. Find accommodation options, cafés, restaurants and a weekly market at the village adjoining the beach.

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A pier extending into turquoise waters with clear skies.

What to do in Canterbury

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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Where to stay in Canterbury

Find the best Canterbury areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Canterbury

A colorful street with a tram, outdoor cafes, and a restaurant named "The Nook Thai".

Christchurch City Centre

Christchurch City Centre is a destination visitors seek out for its abundant dining options, interesting museums and colourful gardens. You might want to check out attractions like Christchurch Art Gallery or Cathedral Square while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

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Two red buses with tracks parked on grass.

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 Harewood Golf Club.

A large, historic house with red trim and multiple chimneys.

Riccarton

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

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A cityscape with a mix of modern and historic buildings, surrounded by green parks and a river.

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.

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A coastal landscape with mountains, a bay, and a small town.

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.

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