Christchurch - Canterbury
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Canterbury is a vast region spreading from the mountainous area of the Southern Alps in the west to the often rugged coast in the east, and from the famous whale-watching town of Kaikoura in the north to the relatively remote area of the Waitaki River Valley in the south. Canterbury forms the large central section of the South Island.
Christchurch is for many the international gateway to New Zealand. At a population of almost 400,000 it is by far the largest city in the South Island. It is a lovely garden city in the English style, with a fantastic geographical region featuring ocean, inland plains, and dramatic mountains. The city is provided with an exciting natural playground right on the doorstep. Christchurch is one of New Zealand’s, if not one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
Christchurch has lots of history – both Maori and European – lots of gardens and parks, a lovely river (the River Avon) made famous by the boating (in Cambridge style punts) and a nearby hill with cable car gondola providing exciting views of the city and surrounds. There are museums and cultural shows, and a majestic cathedral in the city centre. The early Europeans first developed the landing port some 160 years ago at Lyttleton, which still retains it’s old harbour.
In terms of adventure and things to do this area is pretty much unrivalled with hot air ballooning, swimming, surfing, sailing, jet boating and in winter snow skiing. There are bungy jumps for the brave hearted, mountain biking and walks a plenty. More sedately there is fishing for salmon and trout, golf courses, and wineries to visit.
Kaikoura in the north of the region has a rocky coastline with lovely sandy bays. Fur seals sunbathe on the rocks close to shore, whilst dolphins are frequently seen a little way off, and by venturing out to sea there is the chance to spot one of the world’s natural wonders the giant Sperm Whale as they move to and from the southern ocean. In 2004 Kaikoura achieved the Green Globe status in recognition of work done to reduce the environmental impact. Even in town visitors (and locals) are encouraged to: reduce, re-use, and recycle. A good model for us all!
Hanmer Springs is a long established spa town having been “discovered” in the mid 19th Century. There are natural thermal pools and mineral waters providing a relaxing, soothing and for some healing experience. Hanmer is also a good base for all things outdoor.
Akaroa was a predominantly French settlement – the only one in New Zealand – and thankfully very well preserved. It is well worth a visit, and can be combined with a wider exploration of the celebrated Banks Peninsular.
There are two national parks in Canterbury – Arthurs Pass and Aoraki Mount Cook – the former in described under the West Coast Region (as it straddles the two regions) whereas Aoraki is covered below.
Aoraki Mount Cook in the heart of the Southern alps covers an area of some 70,696 ha, it is a quintessential alpine environment with the highest mountains and the most significant glaciers in New Zealand. The Park itself was established in 1953, the same year a famous New Zealander (Sir Edmund Hillary) was summiting Mount Everest the highest mountain in the world. Mount Cook is 3,754 metres high and was named in 1851 by Captain J L Stokes in honour of the great explorer (Captain James Cook). The first recorded ascent of the mountain was in 1894 by a group of three New Zealanders – Tom Fyfe, James Clarke, and George Graham. The Tasman Glacier, over 25 kilometres in length, is visible from the entrance to the Park. The Park is the perfect environment for all things alpine – walking and tramping the mountains and valleys, skiing, and of course high mountaineering. You can take a 3 day guided trek from the Tasman Valley, across the flanks of Mount Cook, and into the Hooker Valley.
It is possible to ski the Tasman Glacier and also to arrange to heli-ski at higher levels. There are opportunities for mountain biking and hunting too is popular. Scenic flights will take you soaring above the high peaks for one of the most dramatic excursions in New Zealand. Make no mistake this is one of the finest alpine mountain ranges in the world !
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