Ōtautahi Christchurch is a city of exploration at the heart of Waitaha Canterbury, one of the most location-diverse regions in the world. In the city expect street art and a bustling hospitality scene, cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The surrounding Waitaha Canterbury region offers visitors unforgettable journeys and picturesque towns, zen-like retreats and thrill-seeking opportunities. Spanning north to Kaikōura, south to Waimate, and reaching to the highest heights of the Southern Alps, everything New Zealand has to offer can be found here in Waitaha Canterbury.
Experience urban regeneration and innovation amid flourishing gardens.
Top Experiences
- Check out public art and transitional architecture.
- Taste the city’s thriving food scene.
- Take in magnificent views of the city and the Southern Alps from the Port Hills.
- Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and glide down the Avon river on a punt.
- Experience vibrant new retail areas.
Christchurch & Canterbury Seasons
Spring - Sept to Nov
70 - 170
Known as the Garden City, Christchurch turns on an amazing medley of colours in spring. A time of blossoms, festivals and new beginnings – signalled by the bleating of lambs in the hills and ducklings on the Avon River.
Summer - Dec to Feb
120 - 300
Sunshine and high temperatures with warm Norwest winds. Daylight until 9.30pm. Within
an hour of Christchurch city, there are over 40 safe swimming beaches, from hidden bays to dramatic coastline, surf clubs and sandy peninsulas.
Autumn - Mar to May
170 - 230
Brilliant autumn colours accompanied by excellent, settled weather conditions, make autumn a fantastic time to visit Canterbury. Pleasant daytime temperatures range between 17°C to 23°C, with night temperatures dropping to around 13°C.
Winter - Jun to Aug
30 - 120
From June to August, Christchurch cools off. There’s no better base for winter in the Southern hemisphere, with 13 ski areas and a wide range of après ski activities – from
whale watching to soaking in natural thermal pools.
View the Top of the South Itinerary
