Canterbury
Welcome to Canterbury! A place where coastal and mountain experiences combine to make a place where there's something hair-raisingly thrilling, day-dreamingly relaxing and breath-takingly beautiful for every traveller. In Canterbury you'll find many worlds within one region. Popular tourism destinations in Canterbury include Christchurch City, Hanmer Springs, Timaru, Lake Tekapo and Mt Hutt. more
Canterbury is the South Island’s largest region, it is the region of stark contrasts. The region is home to both New Zealand’s largest plains – the Canterbury plains with intensive pastoral farming and New Zealand’s highest mountains – Mount Cook. It is home to the South Island’s largest city of Christchurch and some of the country’s most remote wildernesses. It is a land of dramatic mountain ranges, cascading rivers, unbelievably glacial-flour-coloured lakes, rolling hills, flat plains, dramatic coastlines, glaciers, wineries and much more.
Enlarge your itinerary with Canterbury’s huge range of activities including numerous ski resorts, skydiving, bungy jumping, hot air ballooning, trout and salmon fish, chartered sea fishing, whale, dolphin and seal watching, hot-water springs, hiking, Lord of the Rings tours, farm tours, jetboating, wine tasting, glacier climbing, mountaineering, mountain biking to name only a few activities. Canterbury has a selection of activities for everyone including thrill-seekers, families, backpackers, honeymoon makers, groups and elderly.
The mid coastal region of Canterbury is dominated by the large pastoral Canterbury plains, Christchurch and numerous towns. The Canterbury plains are intensively farmed with dairy, sheep, beef and deer faming and is the economic and population centre of the South Island. The town Methven (located on the Canterbury plains at the foot of the towering mountains as they ascend dramatically out of the plain) is the gateway for the popular Mt Hutt ski resort – a thirty minute drive away.
The north is mountainous and dry, boasting most of the region’s wineries – especially in the Waipara region. Secluded in its own valley is the South Island’s most popular hot-springs resort as well as popular ski resort – Hanmer Springs. And to the far north is the popular coastal town of Kiakoura – a prime base for a host of wildlife encounters and famous for its whales, fur seals and dolphins who live permanently on this coast. Kiakoura is scenic mountainous region with a dramatic coastline showcasing many mountains descending down into the sea. Take a drive long the Kiakoura coastal highway you are sure to see many fur seals resting on the rocks.
The western inland regions (also known as “McKenzie Country”) are dry and mountainous. This region includes many of New Zealand’s alpine lakes including famous lakes of Tekapo and Pukaki – these lakes are unique in New Zealand for their distinctive glacial hue. This region is dominated by towering snow-capped mountain ranges, deep glacier cut valleys, tussock grasslands and wild gushing rivers. Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain, is found here and from it tumbles New Zealand’s longest glacier – the Tasman Glacier – measuring 27 kilometres long. Mt. Hutt is a popular ski resort found close to the Canterbury plains region. Two of the three mountain passes crossing east-west across the Southern Alps are found here namely, Arthurs Pass and Lewis Pass – these are two of the most spectacular alpine drives in the country.
Canterbury’s south is dominated by scenic rolling hills and pastoral farming. The largest town is Timaru.
Canterbury has a massive range of accommodation options encompassing five-star accommodation, budget motor lodges and motels, luxury alpine lodges and retreats, cheap backpacker accommodation, camping grounds, self-catering apartments, villas, among other options. Regardless of your needs – be it conferencing or assessable accommodation – Canterbury has the right accommodation options for you.
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Attractions and Activities
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Attractions and Activities
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ACACIA RENTACAMPERVAN - New Zealand Wide
ACACIA RENTACAMPERVAN - New Zealand Wide
Mobile-friendly - An easy way to find the best price to rent a campervan or motorhome in New Zealand. We specialise in free and easy self-drive campervan holidays. Our objective is to assist our customers in achieving their ideal holiday through efficient methods of holiday planning. In all, we ensure that you will give no chance to holiday disappointments.
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- +64 9 889 4264
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- 0800 112 828 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 12A Elliot Street, Howick, Auckland, New Zealand
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ACE RENTAL CARS - Nationwide
ACE RENTAL CARS - Nationwide
Mobile-friendly - Ace Rental Cars is New Zealand's largest locally owned rental car company. Rent the experience. All our vehicles are fully-serviced and maintained every 6 months. Ace Rental Cars now operate seventeen branches across fifteen cities throughout Australia and New Zealand. In addition to the core fleet of older vehicles, the company also provide a Premium fleet, featuring brand new vehicles.
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- +64 9 303 3112
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- 0800 502 277 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 39 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland, New Zealand
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ACTIVE ADVENTURES
ACTIVE ADVENTURES
Mobile-friendly - We’re Kiwis, and for 25 years we’ve been adventuring in the stunning New Zealand outdoors with guests from Tauranga to Texas. If you have 2 days or 2 weeks, are after bucket-list destinations or venturing into the back country, we’ll find your perfect adventure. And with our Active Adventure Assurance, date changes and trip switches are easy as.
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- +64 3 450 0414 or Freephone: 1800 661 9073 (USA or Canada); 0808 234 7780 (UK); 1800 661 907 (Australia)
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- Nationwide - based in Queenstown, New Zealand
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ADVENTURE TRAILRIDES - Christchurch
ADVENTURE TRAILRIDES - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Enjoy the thrills of offroad motorcycle and quadbike fun, riding the best high country trails in New Zealand. Trails suitable for novice to experienced riders. Coaching can be arranged for beginners. Includes transport from Christchurch, all riding gear, experienced guide, snacks, drink, latest model trail and quad bikes from 100cc to 450cc. Half-day/day tours departing daily all year.
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- +64 27 451 0584
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- PO Box 20233, Bishopdale, Christchurch, New Zealand
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ADVENTURE TRAILRIDES CORPORATE TOURS - Christchurch
ADVENTURE TRAILRIDES CORPORATE TOURS - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Adventure Trailrides New Zealand offer corporate tours allowing us to put your team through their paces on an enduro motorcycle or atv quad bike in Christchurch. Our tours are suitable for beginners with coaching available and we can cater for up to 16 people. Single or multi-day options are available as well as lunch or corporate meals.
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- +64 27 451 0584
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- PO Box 20233, Bishopdale, Christchurch, New Zealand
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AIGANTIGHE ART GALLERY - Timaru
AIGANTIGHE ART GALLERY - Timaru
The Aigantighe Art Museum (pronounced 'egg and tie') in Timaru, New Zealand is renowned internationally for its collection and innovative exhibition and education programmes. Aigantighe holds New Zealand, Pacific, Asian and European art works from the sixteenth century to the present day. Its British Victorian painting collection is of great significance.
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- 49 Wai-iti Rd, Timaru, New Zealand
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AIR FORCE MUSEUM OF NEW ZEALAND - Christchurch
AIR FORCE MUSEUM OF NEW ZEALAND - Christchurch
Discover New Zealand's military aviation story at the place where it all began. Engage with stories of the men and women who have helped shape New Zealand's military aviation journey, and reflect on their service and sacrifice through years of war and peace. FREE Admission, open daily (except Christmas Day), 10.00am-5.00pm.
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AIR MILFORD - Queenstown
AIR MILFORD - Queenstown
Mobile-friendly - Air Milford proudly operates the only brand new Cessna Caravan aircraft. This aircraft offers leather seating, quiet air conditioned comfort and great viewing for all passengers. It is one of the safest aircraft flying today. Family owned and operated, with a 100% safety record. Flights to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, the Southern Alps and Glaciers.
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- +64 3 442 2351
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- 0800 462 252 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 3 Tex Smith Lane, Frankton, Queenstown, New Zealand
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AKAROA FOX II SAILING AND WILDLIFE TOURS - Akaroa
AKAROA FOX II SAILING AND WILDLIFE TOURS - Akaroa
Sail with dolphins on New Zealand's oldest ketch—Fox II. See penguins, seals, albatross, and other sea birds. A real sailing experience; as crew, or just relax. Quiet, eco-friendly green boat, two masts, six red sails. Food, refreshments, complimentary coffee/tea. 2.5 hour cruise, departing 10:30am and 1:15pm from Dalys Wharf, Akaroa late Dec-May. Satisfaction guaranteed! Private charters. Company functions. Weddings.
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- +64 27 414 4879
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- 0800 369 7245 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- Akaroa Harbour, Canterbury, New Zealand
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AKAROA FRENCH CONNECTION - Christchurch
AKAROA FRENCH CONNECTION - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Akaroa French Connection Services connect with harbour cruises, dolphin swimming, sea-kayaking, horse-treks and local tours. Your journey includes comfortable coach transport, free pick-up from inner-city accommodation, refreshment and photo stops en-route, informative driver commentary and a 'drive through introduction' of the charming Akaroa Village. Come and experience Akaroa and enjoy a spectacular scenic drive across picturesque Banks Peninsula with us!
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- 0800 800 575 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 47 Riccarton Road, Christchurch, New Zealand
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AKAROA GUIDED KAYAK SAFARIS - Akaroa
AKAROA GUIDED KAYAK SAFARIS - Akaroa
Mobile-friendly - Akaroa Guided Kayak Safaris sea kayaking tours are based in the stunning French seaside town of Akaroa, one of the best locations to sea kayak in NZ, with neon blue and green water and untouched marine reserve. We provide guided 5-star kayaking tours that are Serene, Special, Spectacular and Safe! Our local, knowledgeable guides are the best in the business.
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- +64 21 1564 591
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- Rue Lavaud, Akaroa, New Zealand
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AKAROA TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK - Akaroa, Banks Peninsula
AKAROA TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK - Akaroa, Banks Peninsula
Mobile-friendly - Stunning views across the majestic Akaroa harbour, and only a 300-metre walk to the main street—the ideal getaway from busy city life. Only an 85 kilometre drive from Christchurch. A full range of campsite facilities including a swimming pool, BBQ area and TV Lounge. Accommodation catering to all needs, from self contained units to budget cabins to spacious camp sites.
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- +64 3 304 7471
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- 0800 727 525 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 96 Morgans Road (off Old Coach Road), Akaroa, New Zealand
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AKAROA VILLAGE INN - Akaroa
AKAROA VILLAGE INN - Akaroa
Mobile-friendly - Immerse yourself in uniquely charming accommodation available at the picturesque Akaroa Village Inn, Banks Peninsula near Christchurch. The ultimate in Akaroa waterfront accommodation set in this seaside community with a thriving culture and fascinating marine ecosystem. Stunning seaviews from our 30 serviced apartments including two-bedroom self-catering family units, sunny courtyard units and boutique accommodation in the Old Akaroa Shipping Office.
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- +64 3 304 1111
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- 0800 695 2000 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 81 Beach Road, Akaroa, New Zealand
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ALBATROSS ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
ALBATROSS ENCOUNTER - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Viewing multiple species of albatross and other spectacular seabirds is what the Albatross Encounter tour offers. Just a short distance from shore and you will see more albatross species than in any other coastal location on earth, distinguishing Kaikoura as a unique birdwatching location. Stunning photography opportunities are guaranteed with excellent commentary from our experienced guides.
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- +64 3 319 6777
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- 0800 733 365 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 96 Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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ALFORD COTTAGE - RED COTTAGES - Staveley, South Island
ALFORD COTTAGE - RED COTTAGES - Staveley, South Island
Take a break from the hustle and bustle and escape to Red Cottage in Staveley. Enjoy romantic evenings with open fires, candle light and the warm wooden ambience of this restored historical cottage. Watch the sun set over the surrounding mountains while enjoying local produce and fine wine, after a day of exploring this wonderful area.
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- +64 3 303 0970
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- 4323 Arundel Rakaia Gorge Road, Staveley, RD1 Ashburton 7771, New Zealand
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ALPACA FARM TOURS - Akaroa
ALPACA FARM TOURS - Akaroa
Mobile-friendly - Your Akaroa Alpaca Farm Tour experience takes you on a scenic-drive to the western-side of Akaroa Harbour to Shamarra Alpaca Farm. Our Akaroa alpaca farm has breathtaking views of the harbour. Alpaca farmers, Frank and Anya, will treat you to an interesting, interactive introduction to these animals (renowned for their ultra-fine fleece). Light refreshments included on your Akaroa farm tour.
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- +64 3 304 5141
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- +64 21 757 592
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- 328 Wainui Main Rd, RD 2, French Farm, Akaroa, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury, New Zealand
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ALPINE PACIFIC MOTELS AND HOLIDAY PARK - Kaikoura
ALPINE PACIFIC MOTELS AND HOLIDAY PARK - Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Kaikoura Accommodation set in picturesque, quiet, rural setting with stunning mountain views, but still only 400 metres from Kaikoura township. Excellent selection of accommodation, cabins, en-suites and motels, with park facilities for powered campervan or tent sites. Facilities include heated pool and spas, wireless Internet and high pressure showers. 4.5 star rating for holiday park and 4 stars for Motels.
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- +64 3 319 6275
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- 0800 692 322 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 69 Beach Road, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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A-MAZE-N-GOLF - Hanmer Springs
A-MAZE-N-GOLF - Hanmer Springs
Come solve the mystery of the Lost Temple and be in for lots of surprises along the way, or play our Gold Rush themed 18-hole mini golf course. Ask about group discounts. We are very popular for school camps, birthday parties, corporate challenges, social club events and fundraising. Located just a two-minute drive or five-minute walk from the village centre.
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- +64 3 315 7272
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- 1 Fraser Close, Hanmer Springs, New Zealand
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AMAZING NEW ZEALAND - The Itinerary Specialist
AMAZING NEW ZEALAND - The Itinerary Specialist
Creating innovative and imaginative self-drive itineraries tailored to your own requirements. If you have a desire to indulge your senses with spectacular food and gold medal wines during your visit, then this is the itinerary for you - a self-drive tour of New Zealand created specially for lovers of great food and fine wine.
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- +64 9 428 4668
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- 66 Beauvoir Ave, Matakatia, Whangaparaoa, Auckland, New Zealand
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AMBER KIWI HOLIDAY PARK & MOTEL - Christchurch
AMBER KIWI HOLIDAY PARK & MOTEL - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - Amber Kiwi Holiday Park is a small, inner-city Holiday Park located 4km south-west of city centre, centrally located between Christchurch Airport & downtown Christchurch. As Christchurch's closest Holiday Park to CBD, with bus stop at the gate, we couldn’t be more convenient. Set on sheltered, landscaped grounds with ultra-clean facilities. We ensure your stay with us is a happy one.
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- +64 3 348 3327
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- 0800 348 308 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 308 Blenheim Road, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch
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ANCHOR INN BEACHFRONT Motel- Kaikoura
ANCHOR INN BEACHFRONT Motel- Kaikoura
Mobile-friendly - Award-winning motel accommodation, superbly located on Kaikoura waterfront, within close proximity to township and Kaikoura's better restaurants. 15 spacious, well-appointed units providing choice of Executive, Superb view and Standard studios as well as one and two-bedroom family apartments. All rooms fully self-contained, climate controlled and double-glazed for maximum comfort. Most rooms enjoy magnificent sea and mountain views. Sky Guest select.
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- +64 3 319 5426
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- 0800 720 033 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 208 The Esplanade, Kaikoura, New Zealand
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ANTIGUA BOAT SHEDS - Christchurch
ANTIGUA BOAT SHEDS - Christchurch
Relax and enjoy the tranquil scenery while devouring a fabulous breakfast or brunch from our licensed cafe, on the banks of the River Avon. Hire a canoe, paddle boat or historic row boat on the Avon River to see the beauty of Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Also offering bike hire, where you can embark on an urban sightseeing adventure.
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- +64 3 366 5885
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- 2 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch, New Zealand
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APEX CAR RENTALS - Christchurch Airport
APEX CAR RENTALS - Christchurch Airport
Mobile-friendly - Apex Car Rentals has been doing things 'the Kiwi way' for more than 25 years by providing exceptional customer service and respecting the different cultures we work with every day. Choose Apex for your New Zealand car hire and experience first-hand why our customers rate us the best car rental company in New Zealand.
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- +64 3 357 4536
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- 0800 400 121 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 82 Ron Guthrey Road, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch, New Zealand
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APEX CAR RENTALS - Christchurch City
APEX CAR RENTALS - Christchurch City
Mobile-friendly - Apex Car Rentals has been doing things 'the Kiwi way' for more than 25 years by providing exceptional customer service and respecting the different cultures we work with every day. Choose Apex for your New Zealand car hire and experience first-hand why our customers rate us the best car rental company in New Zealand.
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- +64 3 363 3001
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- 0800 105 055 (Free call - only within NZ)
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- 150 Kilmore Street, Christchurch, New Zealand
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ARION FARM EDUCATION PARK - Christchurch
ARION FARM EDUCATION PARK - Christchurch
Mobile-friendly - At the Arion Farm Education Park, you can see, touch, and feed a variety of farm animals and learn about their history and contribution to the New Zealand economy. Bring out your students and families to hand feed and learn about the animals. Pony rides and children's parties are also options, as well as picnics or barbeques.
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- +64 3 360 2192
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- +64 21 881 279
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- 890 McLean's Island Road, McLeans Island, Christchurch, New Zealand
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View 334 events near Canterbury
Big Gay Christmas Party
1st of December is our BIG GAY CHRISTMAS PARTY! Starting the night off with some sing along Diva Classics and Karaoke, you can grab the mic and belt out your jolly jolly Christmas joy! Make sure you're in costume! ...
Where: Arcadia Retro Arcade & Pinball Emporia, Christchurch
Address: 204 Barbadoes St, Christchurch
From: 8:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
To: 2:00am on Saturday 2nd December 2023
A Christmas Carol
A wonder show of "A Christmas Carol" performed by our extremally talented performance group showing their interpretation of a classic.
Where: Many Hats Theatre, Christchurch
Address: 344 Manchester Street, Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Wednesday 29th November 2023
To: 9:00pm on Saturday 2nd December 2023
Avebury Xmas Night Market
Food, music, and over 40 diverse stallholders means you can enjoy getting all your Christmas shopping done in one afternoon!
Where: Avebury House, Christchurch
Address: 9 Eveleyn Couzins Avenue, Richmond, Christchurch
From: 3:30pm on Friday 1st December 2023
To: 7:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
Carnival Alley - Life in the Fast Lane
Altiora presents: Carnival Alley "Dare to stray where the carnies play, a dark n' dangerous alleyway, a sizzling circus cabaret." After a very successful opening night, we are back for another show! Featuring ...
Where: Altiora, Christchurch
Address: The Arts Centre, 2 Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, Christchurch
From: 9:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
To: 11:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
Geraldine Christmas Parade
Join the fund of the best little Christmas Parade in South Canterbury - floats, machinery, Santa and more! The parade is one of the biggest events on the Geraldine calendar and never disappoints. Following the parade ...
Where: Geraldine Domain, Geraldine, South Canterbury
Address: Hislop Street, Geraldine, South Canterbury
From: 6:30pm on Friday 1st December 2023
To: 8:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
My Kiwi Christmas at the Leeston Santa Parade
'Tis the season to spread joy, laughter, and holiday cheer, and we have the perfect solution to make this Christmas an unforgettable one for everyone! My Kiwi Christmas presents our our 2023 Pop-Up, Christmas Display - ...
Where: Anderson Square, Leeston, Selwyn
Address: High Street, Leeston, Selwyn
From: 4:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
To: 11:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
Grayson Gilmour
Wellington/Pōneke-based multi-instrumentalist Grayson Gilmour releases his latest single ‘Day Moon’ and announces an album release tour in December. Last month, he shared the news about Holding Patterns, his ...
Where: The Loons, Lyttelton, Christchurch District
Address: 16 Canterbury St, Lyttelton, Christchurch District
From: 8:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
To: 11:59pm on Friday 1st December 2023
Pluto - 'Maybe Twice' NZ Tour
Pluto, with special guests Adam Hattaway & The Haunters, only at the Wunderbar. Iconic alt-rock band Pluto share new ethereal psych-rock track 'Maybe Twice' and announce their much-awaited 2023 New Zealand tour. ...
Where: Wunderbar, Lyttelton, Christchurch District
Address: 14 Canterbury Street, Lyttelton, Lyttelton, Christchurch District
From: 7:30pm on Friday 1st December 2023
To: 11:59pm on Friday 1st December 2023
Christmas Variety Concert
It is that time of year again and 50s up Brass are celebrating it with their annual Christmas Concerts. The concerts will feature guest artists, spot prizes and raffles. Father Christmas will greet you and jolly good ...
Where: Kaiapoi Club, Kaiapoi, Waimakariri
Address: 113 Raven Quay, Kaiapoi, Waimakariri
From: 2:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
To: 3:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
Dominic Hoey Book Launch
Dead Bird Books is hitting the road. Catch poets Dominic Hoey, Isla Huia and Liam Jacobson along with special guests. All three poets will be selling copies of their brand new poetry collections. Isla Huia (Te Āti ...
Where: Little Andromeda Theatre, Christchurch
Address: Level 1, 134 Oxford Terrace, Christchurch
From: 7:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
To: 8:00pm on Friday 1st December 2023
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Discover Canterbury
Read key information and facts about the Canterbury region...
Discover Canterbury
Canterbury Scenic Highlights
Discover the major natural attractions and scenic wonders of the Canterbury region...
Canterbury Scenic Highlights
Canterbury Activity Highlights
Read about the major activities and attractions in the Canterbury region...