Things to do in Canterbury

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Akaroa featuring general coastal views and a coastal town
Mount Cook National Park showing mountains, tranquil scenes and snow
Canterbury showing wildflowers, a lake or waterhole and a sunset
Canterbury which includes a river or creek, a bridge and wildflowers
Canterbury showing mountains, snow and a sunset

Canterbury Attractions

Discover the sights of Canterbury with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {314 fun activities in Canterbury fun activities in Canterbury}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can relax and channel all your energy into planning an unforgettable vacation.


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Canterbury must see attractions

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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Mount Cook National Park showing mountains, tranquil scenes and snow

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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Lyttelton Harbour showing a marina, mountains and a bay or harbor

3. 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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Sumner Beach which includes a sandy beach, general coastal views and a coastal town

4. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.
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In the shoulder season the pools are very quiet. Since they're hot, it really doesn't matter what the weather does.

5. 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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Lake Pukaki showing mountains, snow and a lake or waterhole

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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New Brighton Beach showing surf, a beach and surfing

What to do in Canterbury

Things to Do in Canterbury with Kids

There's fun for all the family no matter where you go in Canterbury. Here are some family friendly experiences to do together that will make your trip unforgettable:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Canterbury? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Canterbury

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Canterbury

New Regent Street featuring railway items and outdoor eating as well as a small group of people

Christchurch City Centre

4.5/5(344 area reviews)

Explore the picturesque and vibrant heart of the city that is getting back to normal after a series of devastating earthquakes.

Christchurch City Centre
International Antarctic Centre showing interior views

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 Omarino Wine Park.

Christchurch Airport
Mona Vale which includes a park

Riccarton

4.5/5(73 area reviews)

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.

Riccarton
Visiting this farmers market in Riccarton Bush, just outside of the center of Christchurch is a wonderful way to sample the areas foods and mix with locals.

Fendalton

5/5(1 area review)

Travelers like the historic sites in Fendalton, and Mona Vale is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Fendalton
Cave Rock which includes caves

Sumner

While visiting Sumner, you might make a stop by sights like Cave Rock and Sumner Beach.

Sumner
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Merivale

4.5/5(19 area reviews)

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.

Merivale

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Canterbury

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Canterbury on a sunny day?
What should I not miss in Canterbury?
If you'd like to see the best of this place, fit these attractions into your schedule:

  • Mona Vale
  • New Brighton Beach
  • Lyttelton Harbour
  • Canterbury Museum

Are there cheap things to do in Canterbury?
Join a Christchurch Gondola Ride Ticket or a Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Tickets- Guaranteed Kiwi Viewing and experience this destination without it costing a whole lot of cash.
What can you do in Canterbury for free?
You'll hardly have time to take your wallet out of your pocket with so many free things to do:

  • Mona Vale
  • New Brighton Beach
  • Lyttelton Harbour
  • Canterbury Museum

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