South Island · journey ideas
Journeys that include Christchurch & Canterbury
Garden city & alpine gateway. We'd give it 2–3 days — here are the routes that pass through, and what you'd do while you're there.
- 2–3 days
- Scenic
- Culture
- Family
Routes through here
3 journey ideas pass through Christchurch & Canterbury.
Every idea shows a realistic nights range; we shape and quote it for your dates.
South Island · 8–12 nights
The Southern Road
Christchurch → Tekapo → Mount Cook → Wānaka → Queenstown → Milford Sound
Both Islands · 12–18 nights
Best of Both Islands
Auckland → Rotorua → Wellington → Kaikōura → Queenstown → Christchurch
South Island · 7–10 nights
Wine & Wilderness
Marlborough → Kaikōura → Christchurch → Central Otago → Queenstown
Easy to add Christchurch & Canterbury to
While you're there
Things to do in Christchurch & Canterbury.
TranzAlpine rail journey
Canterbury
One of the world's great train rides, coast to coast over the Alps.
Child $139
Akaroa dolphin cruise
Banks Peninsula
Meet the world's smallest and rarest dolphins in a volcanic harbour.
Child $49
Wildlife park & kiwi encounter
Christchurch
See a real kiwi in the dark, plus native birds and eels.
Child $19
Nearby on the South Island
Start planning
Build a trip around Christchurch & Canterbury.
Tell us your dates and who's coming. A planner shapes a route with Christchurch & Canterbury at the right point in it and sends a written quote. No obligation.