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A garden city blooming with innovation
Christchurch is perfectly placed to explore some of New Zealand's most stunning landscapes, from Kaikōura's fractured coastline to the grandeur of Aoraki Mt Cook. But the city's manicured gardens, stately architecture and rejuvenated city centre make it a destination all on its own.
Fun things to do: Christchurch
- Experience the beauty of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens from a punt
- Go searching for whales, fur seals and dolphins in Kaikōura
- Go skiing, hiking or stargazing in the Southern Alps
- Explore Akaroa and Lyttelton on the Banks Peninsula
- Learn about life in the South Pole at the International Antarctic Centre
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Take a punt in the Botanic Gardens
Punt is the only way to travel through the Gardens.
Meander through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, located in verdant Hagley Park on the edge of the city. Or better yet, explore it from the water as you go punting along the Avon River. Leaving from the historic Antigua Boatsheds, you'll cruise past the Botanic Gardens, spot wildlife and weeping willows, glide under ornate bridges and understand why Christchurch is called the Garden City.
Go whale-watching in Kaikōura
Kaikōura is home to sperm whales, humpback whales and occasionally orca.
Drive north of Christchurch for a couple of hours and you'll reach a spot where the mountains seem to meet the ocean. Kaikōura is known for its whale-watching, and there's plenty of opportunity to meet these large locals, along with dolphins, fur seals and other wildlife. Don't miss the numerous seaside shacks serving the local cuisine – kōura is the local Māori word for crayfish, and kai means food.
Hike, ski and stargaze in the Southern Alps
A number of hikes can be found in the landscape around Aoraki Mt Cook.
The magnificent Southern Alps are right on Christchurch's doorstep. Hit the slopes at Mt Hutt, a 365ha ski resort that caters to skiiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Venture a little further into the mountains and you'll find a wealth of activities at Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. Hike through stunning landscapes past impossibly blue lakes and mighty glaciers, and at night, enjoy some of the best stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere.
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Wellington
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Queenstown
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Dunedin
Dunedin, with its castle, breweries and windswept coastline, is a slice of Scotland Down Under. Get a taste of the city's vibrant student buzz or use it as a base to explore the rugged south coast.
Auckland
Auckland is a vibrant hub that combines the natural beauty of yacht-speckled harbours and wild, rugged beaches with multicultural galleries, museums and festivals that celebrate the city's diversity.