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

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

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

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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3. 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.

4. 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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5. Tekapo Springs

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

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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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What to do in Canterbury

Stay near popular Canterbury attractions

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Aoraki / Mount Cook

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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

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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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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.

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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.

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.

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