Day Trips From Christchurch

Port Hills are a magnificent range of Hills, located somewhere in Canterbury, New Zealand. These hills originated from the eroded remnant of the Lyttelton Volcano, which erupted millions of years ago. It provides amazing panoramic views while riding and a wonderful path for short walks and little adventures. Port Hills is a splendid natural establishment that runs through Godly Head and ends up dividing the city from the harbour.

The township of Arthur’s Pass is located a two hour drive from Christchurch. Situated on the west coast of the South Island, the roads leading to the township from Canterbury are nothing short of an engineering marvel and provide great views of the landscape. Arthur’s Pass National Park, one of the townships major tourist attractions, can be considered as two halves divided by a historic railway and highway. Along the eastern half of the divide lies sprawling expanses of beech forests and riverbeds while the western half comprises rivers flowing through deep canyons and gorges, flanked by imposing forested mountains. One of the best ways to take in the pure and natural scenery is through the renowned TranzAlpine Service railroad that carves through the region. One of the most popular activities among travellers in the region is mountaineering and hiking into the national park. Skiers and snowboarders can head to the Temple Basin Ski Area and ride some of the freshest snow in the country. The area is also known for being the native habitat of the famous flightless kea bird, one of the only species of alpine parrots.

Hanmer Springs is a small town in Canterbury, New Zealand which is famous for its hot pools complex and the range of outdoor activities offered to the tourists and the locals who often visit the town for a weekend off or during holidays. Activities like skiing and snowboarding are most popular during the winter season. The Alpine village is very scenic, and the natural beauty of the town can be observed and enjoyed via the airline services offered for the very same purpose.

Located just 60 kilometres north of the city of Christchurch, the small valley town of Waipara boasts of having the most flavourful and well-made wines in this part of the country. With vineyards that stretch into the distance, surrounded by gentle hills, Waipara is great for a weekend trip, away from the hustle and bustle of Christchurch.

The Canterbury Museum is the go-to place for anybody who wants to experience the cultural, human and natural history of New Zealand. It is a striking Gothic Revival that was opened in 1870 as a single-storeyed building, which now stands as a beautiful foundation after the various additions made to its architecture over the years. With its 2.3 million and more artefacts, the museum offers not only historically alluring exhibits but also assorted galleries, each with a unique timeline, place, and history to show. The popular tourist attraction is not only known for the variety of exhibitions it has to offer, but also the activities and tours specially designed to cater to children. Hence, the venue is perfect to be visited with family as people of all age groups will enjoy the museum and be entertained through the different sets of activities.

Location : 11 Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand

Kaikoura, which lies on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand, is the perfect place for a weekend getaway from the cities of Picton or Christchurch. It boasts of having the most successful whale and dolphin spotting tours, with an almost hundred per cent spotting rate. One can see various kinds of whales, including sperm whales, orcas, humpback whales and even the mighty blue whale! You could also book a tour to go swimming in the ocean with these gentle, harmless giants. There are multiple whale and dolphin spotting tours that operate here, both on boats and on choppers!

Akaroa, a town in South Island, New Zealand is one of the most historic and bi-cultural places to visit. This town is located on the banks of the peninsula and is Southeast of Christchurch. The main employer industry in Akaroa is tourism, with tourists from across the world working here seasonally, giving this town an exotic vibe.