Things to Do in Canterbury in 2026

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

￥16,114

per adult

80% of travellers recommend

Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

￥12,568

per adult

100% of travellers recommend

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Pass for Hot Pools

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Multiple Entry Pass for Hot Pools

￥3,591

per adult

Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch

￥17,865

per adult

96% of travellers recommend

Akaroa: Pohatu Penguins Scenic Nature 2-Hour or 4-Hour Tour

￥9,426

per adult

Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill

￥20,199

per adult

Christchurch: Orana Wildlife Park Admission

￥3,546

per adult

90% of travellers recommend

Blokarts suitable for ages 8 to 80+ with tandem karts available for those not ready to go it alone.

Christchurch Land Sailing Adventure Velocity Karts

￥8,888

per adult

Akaroa: Pohatu Little Penguins 3-Hour Evening Experience

￥11,222

per adult

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Canterbury must see attractions

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 snow-capped mountain range with a turquoise lake in the foreground.

2. 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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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 and neighborhoods 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 is abundant dining options, interesting museums, and colorful gardens. You might want to check out attractions like Christchurch Art Gallery or Cathedral Square while you're exploring the neighborhood.

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An airport runway with surrounding fields and buildings.

Christchurch Airport

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Christchurch Airport and surrounding area, you can visit International Antarctic Centre and Harewood Golf Club.

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

Riccarton

A noteworthy feature of Riccarton is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.

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A coastal town with a harbor, surrounded by hills and a large body of water.

Sydenham

Sydenham is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like The Colombo and Supa Karts.

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

Addington

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