What to do in Canterbury

Activities, attractions and tours

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


  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

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

2. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.
Learn more
A swimming pool with a mountainous backdrop.

3. 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.
Learn more
A coastal town with a harbor, mountains in the background, and a clear sky.

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

5. Church of the Good Shepherd

Take in the exceptional views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains with a visit to the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd. Explore the small building’s simple but charming main chamber and chat with the vicar about the history of the local area. Be sure to walk around the grounds, taking in magnificent alpine views.
Learn more
A stone church under a starry night sky.

6. 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.
Learn more
A sandy beach with a windmill, rocky outcrops, and a hillside with houses.

7. Mount Hutt Skifield

Mount Hutt Ski Field features one of the longest vertical drops in New Zealand’s South Island and some of the region’s finest snow conditions. The ski season generally lasts from June to October, making it among the longest seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. Bring the family to explore one of the country’s most varied ski fields and take advantage of kid-friendly discounts and facilities.
Learn more
A snowboarder on a snowy slope with ski lifts in the background.

What to do in Canterbury


Stay near popular Canterbury attractions

Where to stay in Canterbury

Find the best Canterbury areas for the activities you enjoy most.

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.

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 McLean's Island Golf Club.

Riccarton

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

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.

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.

Day trip destinations from Canterbury