Things to do in Canterbury
Activities, attractions and tours
Visit Canterbury
Most popular experiences in Canterbury
Tours & day trips
See all 254 activities
Mount Cook Day Tour from Queenstown
Air, helicopter & balloon tours
See all 79 activities
Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike
Private & custom tours
See all 63 activities
Kaikoura Whale Watching Day Trip from Christchurch
Wildlife & nature
See all 24 activities
Whale Watching in Kaikoura by Boat
Cruises & boat tours
See all 23 activities
Arthur's Pass Full-Day Tour with TranzAlpine Train
What to do in Canterbury
Popular places to visit
Mount Cook National Park
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.
Aoraki / Mount Cook
Explore the great outdoors at Aoraki / Mount Cook and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Mount Cook. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.
Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
Lake Pukaki
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.
Hagley Park
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.
Tekapo Springs
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.
Sumner Beach
The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.
New Brighton Beach
Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.
Mount Hutt Skifield
Hit the slopes at one of New Zealand’s largest ski areas, which is best known for its long season and gorgeous surrounding scenery.
Areas of Canterbury
Christchurch City Centre
Explore the picturesque and vibrant heart of the city that is getting back to normal after a series of devastating earthquakes.
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.
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.
Merivale
Merivale is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Merivale Mall or Papanui Road.
Fendalton
Travelers like the historic sites in Fendalton, and Riccarton House is a top attraction you might want to visit.
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.
