Canterbury is New Zealand’s largest region by area, measuring approximately 43 350 square kilometres. With a population of 559 200, it is also the largest region in population in South Island, and the second largest in New Zealand. Canterbury is located along the east coast of the South Island and is bordered by the Conway River to the north, the Southern Alps to the west, the Waitaki River to the south and the Pacific Ocean to the west. This combination of landmarks makes the area environmentally diverse and beautiful. The Ngai Tahu Maroi tribe were the first to reside in this area, long before the discovery of the Akaroa Harbour by Captain Cook in the 1770s. European settled was undertaken by members or the New Zealand Company in 1846. Under the direction of architect Benjamin Mountfort, the design of the town’s earliest buildings had a Gothic Revival theme. Many of these buildings exist today, giving the area a historic touch. The village now known as Akaroa was purchased by a French captain in 1839, the only example of attempted settlement by the French in New Zealand. While the French settlement was unsuccessful, the town still possesses evidence of its French past, seen in French street names and historical buildings. Cantabrians (as they are referred to in New Zealand) love their sport, rugby union in particular. Their rugby team, the Canterbury Crusaders, is one of the most successful teams in the Super 14 Rugby Competition, an international competition that that also includes Australian and South African teams. During winter, thousands of locals flock to AMI Stadium to watch their team play. Canterbury also has two major viticulture areas, Waipara and the area around Christchurch, which typically produce white wines. Kurow has recently started producing wine as well. Scenically, Canterbury is a place of contrasts, with wild, alpine mountain ranges juxtaposed with smooth, green plains; the rough Pacific Ocean next to the glorious Kaikoura Ranges; and smooth, clear bodies of water competing with brilliant greenery. Mount Cook is not only the highest point in the region – it is also the highest point in the nation, standing at 3 750 metres; in fact, the mountain’s Maori name, Aoraki, means Cloud Piercer. Alternately, the thousand metres deep trenches off the coast of Kaikoura are the perfect habitat for whales, seals and dolphins. The region provides access to Arthur’s Pass, in the Southern Alps, and also contains many waterways that can be used for swimming, fishing or whale watching. Canterbury also boasts Hammer Springs Thermal Reserve, where visitors can enjoy an invigorating dip in the hot pools. Things to do:

• The Banks Peninsula, am hour and a half south east of Christchurch, is the most prominent and spectacular volcanic feature in the South Island. The peninsula is made up of the eroded remains of two volcanoes, and the dramatic coastline was created by their ancient and violent eruptions. The volcanic islands, craters and mountains are a must see.
• In a country renowned for its fine wine, wine tours are a dime a dozen. So why not try a wine trail with a twist, travelling by horse drawn wagon from vineyard to vineyard. The slow pace gives you a chance to enjoy the impressive scenery, and it also answers the question of who has to drive.
• The Southern Alps township of Arthur’s Pass provides access to the Temple Basin ski field, as well as several national parks – just watch out for the intelligent, mischievous kea bird. And if you believe the journey is just as important as the destination, the Tranz Alpine train journey is just as magical as the town that awaits.

Dramatically different landscapes make the Canterbury region in New Zealand a fascinating place to visit. There are so many things to see and do for every kind of traveller, especially in terms of eco-based and adventure tourism. Extending from the grand Southern Alps in the west to secluded beaches and bays along the Pacific Ocean in the east, Canterbury is the largest region in New Zealand and where you’ll find the South Island’s biggest and most thriving city, Christchurch. You’ll also find Mt Cook, or Aoraki (‘Cloud Piercer’ in Maori), standing at 3,754 metres high and marking the highest point in New Zealand. North of Christchurch the mountains meet the sea at Kaikoura, where stunning panoramas of both oceans and mountains set the scene for a myriad of outdoor based eco-tourism activities. Also of interest in the north is New Zealand’s premier wine region, Waipara Valley, with over 80 vineyards set amongst breathtaking scenery. Not far from here, travellers can experience alpine activities and then rest their weary bones by soaking in the thermal pools of Hanmer Springs. Heading inland to the Southern Alps, there are the charming alpine communities of Springfield and Arthur’s Pass, both good bases for hiking and mountain biking in the summer and skiing in the winter. Or take a ride on the TranzApline scenic train journey from Christchurch to Greymouth; considered one of the world’s greatest scenic railway journeys. Discover the charm of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula; a historic French and British settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano and popular in the summer with tourists flocking to swim with Hector’s Dolphins. To the south, Ashburton and Timaru districts await adventure junkies and leisure seekers alike, offering scads of activities and spectacular scenery to keep everyone happy.

Up North Kaikoura Kaikoura is situated on the northeastern coast of Canterbury, an ocean town with stunning alpine views. As a result, outdoor lovers flock to the area to enjoy a range of activities such as dolphin and seal swimming, whale watching, walking, golf, diving and snorkeling, 4WD-ing, and more. The history of the Kaikoura draws attention from its visitors, and the area’s whaling history and Maori and European roots can be studied at Kaikoura Museum and the historic Fyffe House. Kaikoura’s coastal location celebrates an abundance of crayfish, enjoyed by many with a glass of award winning wine from the Kaikoura Winery. Waipara Valley One of New Zealand’s newest and fast growing wine regions, Waipara Valley is a 40minute drive north of Christchurch and is popular for its Pinot Noir and Riesling. It’s not all about wine though, with olives, nuts and lavender also making up part of the town’s produce output. Enjoy a little history at the Weka Pass Railway, or visit the Waipara Valley farmer’s market held every Sunday from November until April/May, selling everything from lamb through to vegetables, olive oils, eggs, honey, preserves, bread and coffee. Hanmer Springs Famed for its thermal pools and spas, the picturesque alpine resort village of Hanmer Springs is the place to go to relax, unwind and spoil yourself. It’s not all about indulging though, with plenty to do for the active traveler such as forest hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, skiing, bungy jumping or jet boating. Even the adventure junkie will agree that soaking weary bones in the thermal pools at the end of long day of action is the best way to relax! Amberley & Leithfield Amberley is where the local farmers and wine growers come to replenish their goods. It’s also popular for golf and fishing whilst boasting a nice selection of cafes and craft shops. Mountain views can be enjoyed from the north and south and the beach is just down the road. Amberley is a beautiful country town and visitors can dapple in horse riding, surfcasting, wine tasting, river fishing, farm visits and garden tours. Leithfield is a short driving distance from Amberley. This small village is one of the oldest townships in North Canterbury and boasts a fantastic country pub where you can meet the locals and city people at the same time. Both areas are surrounded by excellent walking tracks including the Kowai River Walk, the Amberley Beach Walkway and Mt Grey. Kaiapoi Less than a half an hour north of Christchurch is the river town of Kaiapoi, a great spot for water lovers as the Kaiapoi River runs through the town. The Waimakariri River and Pegasus Bay coastline are also nearby, making boating, water sports, fishing and river carnivals all popular activities. The historic MV Tuhoe Rive cruise is a fun outing or get active on one of Kaiapoi's walkways and cycling tracks. There are beautiful picnic spots or just enjoy picking up some souvenirs from one of the town’s shops and don’t forget to pop in for a bite one of the local cafés and restaurants. Oxford Taking on the same name as the prestigious English university, Oxford lies just north of Christchurch and is close to many good outdoor travel destinations. History buffs will take pleasure in a visit to the Oxford museum and jail hours, whilst those with a green thumb can enjoy a local garden tour and animal lovers can saddle up and go horseriding. Wine lovers will find pleasure at Melness Winery.