Day & Multi-Day Trips in the Canterbury Region - Christchurch

Day & Multi-Day Trips in the Canterbury RegionGuide was updated: June 25, 2025

From the Pacific Ocean, ancient volcanic peninsula and wondrous marine life, across patchwork plains, home to adrenalin pumping activities, lush vineyards and braided rivers rising to pristine glacial lakes and the majestic Southern Alps presided over by Aoraki/Mount Cook. You will find something special in Canterbury. Most destinations are possible in a day trip from Christchurch, but Canterbury is best enjoyed as a multi-day trip, with time spent in each unique destination.

Mid Canterbury

Snow-capped Southern Alps, rich agricultural pastures and breathtaking braided rivers make Mid Canterbury an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. From skiing or snowboarding to rafting, skydiving, fishing, touring stately gardens, uncovering relics of aviation and transport history, mountain biking or hiking there is definitely plenty to see and do!

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Akaroa & Banks Peninsula

A picturesque 90‐minute drive from Christchurch lies Akaroa, a charming French inspired port cradled in the arms of an ancient volcano. Take in sweeping harbour views and see the outer bays from a hilltop vantage point. In the village itself, spend a leisurely day exploring boutique shops, galleries and gourmet eateries, or swim with the rare Hector’s dolphin.

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Arthur’s Pass & Selwyn

Enjoy the ever-changing scenery, from the patchwork quilt of the Canterbury Plains to the mighty Southern Alps. The Selwyn district is home to distinctive limestone formations, intriguing alpine flora and fauna and a vast range of walking tracks in Arthurs Pass National Park. Savour a glass of Riesling at one of the boutique wineries, stop en-route for some white-knuckled jet boating on the Waimakariri Gorge or explore the depths of the cave at Cave Stream Scenic Reserve.

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Hanmer Springs & Hurunui District

Just 90 minutes from Christchurch, the alpine spa village of Hanmer Springs is the perfect setting for indulgence, rejuvenation or adventure. Soak in natural hot pools, explore 50 kms of mountain bike and nature trails, enjoy gourmet dining or try your hand at a round of golf. Take an idyllic road trip and tour the flavours of the North Canterbury Food and Wine Trail or sample fine vintages from the Waipara Valley vineyards.

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Kaikoura District

Kaikoura is an area rich in Maori culture & history, where majestic mountains plunge into the Pacific Ocean and whales, dolphins, seals and sea birds flourish. It is an internationally renowned whale watching hot spot, and one of the only places in the world where Sperm whales can be seen almost every day. Feast on fresh local crayfish at a roadside stall to top off a truly world class nature experience.

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Waimakariri District

Just 20 minutes north of Christchurch, discover the quaint rural lifestyle towns, including Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Oxford and Pegasus Town. Enjoy a taste of country life with boutique shops, farmers markets, cooking schools, arts & crafts, river adventures and secluded beaches.

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Mackenzie District

Rich golden landscapes, powder blue canals and bright turquoise glacial lakes form the tapestry of the Mackenzie District. At the heart of it all towers New Zealand’s highest mountain peak, Aoraki Mount Cook at 3,754 metres. Travel the well-worn paths of New Zealand’s mountain climbing pioneers, explore the Tasman Glacier by air or boat and in the evening count the stars in the clearest of night skies.

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