Christchurch
Christchurch: The Adventure Gateway to New Zealand's South Island
From the spectacular heights of Aoraki Mount Cook to the deep marine trenches off the coast of Kaikoura home year-round to whales, dolphins and seals, the Christchurch region is one of contrasts with plenty to see and do.
Here's a brief sample of what is on offer in Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand's South Island.
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park - a scenic paradise in all seasons
Aoraki means 'Cloud Piercer' in the Kai Tahu dialect of the Maori language - an apt name for New Zealand's highest peak.
In the spring and summer you can enjoy the mountain's wondrous flower displays and great variety of native plants, birds or wander over to the spectacular clay cliffs of Omarama. In the winter heliskiing, clacier skiing and Nordic/Telemark/Apline skiing on the claciers and peaks.
Other activities include hiking, cycling, golfing, boating and fishing - no matter what your outdoor tastes there's something for everyone at the Aoraki Mt. Cook National Park.
The Garden City's Flora Festival
Every February around Valentines Day, Christchurch hosts the world renowned Festival of Flowers and Romance. In the Botanic Gardens and in parks and roundabouts throughout the city extravagant flower displays are on show and special events are organised to celebrate Christchurch's claim to fame.
Take a scenic drive to Kaikoura - where the mountains meet the sea
A few hours north of Christchurch by car lies the township of Kaikoura - a small hamlet bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the snow covered Alps. The drive itself is the highlight of the contrasting landscape of the Canterbury Plains and the rugged coastline. An unforgettable backdrop to a memorable day trip.
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