Christchurch Attractions

Rakaia - This town calls itself ‘the salmon capital of New Zealand'. It's also known for its bridge, which is 1.8 kilometres long. The Rakaia River is one of the world's best examples of a braided river.

Ashburton - Ashburton has a total of six museums, including a vintage railway museum, aviation museum and car museum. Local craft galleries are definitely worth a look.

Temuka - This busy service town is the home of Temuka pottery – New Zealand's very own oven-to-table ware. Visit the factory shop and pick up a bargain.

Lake Ellesmere (Te Waihora) - Te Waihora is a similar size to Lake Wanaka. It is an unusual lake - salty and shallow, with an average depth of 1.4 metres and a maximum depth of 3.6 metres. The lake is one of New Zealand's most important wetland systems.

Lake Forsyth - In the past, this lake had a permanent outlet to the sea and waka (Maori canoes) could travel right into the forested inlet, which was then known as Maori Harbour.

Barry's Bay - Here you can sample specialty cheeses at the gourmet cheese factory.

French Farm - One hundred and fifty years ago French settlers grew grapes at French Farm. Today, the tradition lives on. Stop at French Farm to buy wines or enjoy the restaurant.

Hagley Park, and admire the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Mona Vale Homestead.

International Antarctic Centre – enter a world of real ice and snow.

Akaroa (84km southeast of Christchurch) is Canterbury’s oldest village and New Zealand’s only French settlement. The harbour cruise from the main wharf offers sightings of rare Hector’s dolphins, blue penguins, yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and cormorants.