For an invigorating swim, Embros Thermae, also called The Therma, is an enormous pool with thermal springs, surrounded by circling rocks.

Suspended above the suburbs of Christchurch, the Gondola whisks you nearly a kilometre to the Crater Rim of the Port Hills. See in the extinct volcano which exploded six million years ago, sheltering Lyttelton’s sparkling harbour and to the west, the Southern Alps seem close in the clear pure air and to the East, the ocean and the sky stretch as far as the eye can see. Experience the Time Tunnel, a dramatic reconstruction of the history of the Port Hills and Christchurch and revive your spirits with a snack at the new Red Rock Cafe.

Mission Beach is a small coastal town about 240 kilometres north of Townsville. For visiting beach lovers, it offers a beautiful stretch of sand for all sorts of activities. Besides the obvious sunbathing, you can go skydiving or kayaking. Paddle from South Mission Beach along the coast, passing golden sandy beaches and rocky headlands. As you cruise along, there will be plenty of opportunities to see turtles and many sea birds that frolic along this scenic coastline.

From the historic French Village of Akaroa, 90 minutes from Christchurch, daily harbour cruises show the fascinating landscape with volcanic craters and exciting wildlife. The cruise is packed with highlights including the rare, NZ native dolphin — the Hector's Dolphin — as well as penguins and other sea birds. Each cruise is fully narrated by the skipper who has extensive knowledge of the nature, wildlife and history of the harbour.