![Christchurch - your gateway to New Zealand's South Island](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_400,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/DD-9741_Christchurch_Web-Assets_INSPO-PAGE_banner_mobile_1266x740.jpg)
![Christchurch - your gateway to New Zealand's South Island](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_800,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/DD-9741_Christchurch_Web-Assets_INSPO-PAGE_banner_tablet_2400x600.jpg)
![Christchurch - your gateway to New Zealand's South Island](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/DD-9741_Christchurch_Web-Assets_INSPO-PAGE_banner_desktop_3840x836.jpg)
Explore the wonders of Christchurch
Ready to take a walk on the Kiwi side? Today, we're embarking on a journey to the vibrant city of Christchurch, nestled on New Zealand's picturesque South Island. With its unique blend of urban culture, natural beauty, and quirky charm, Christchurch is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.
Take a leisurely stroll through the CBD, and you'll encounter a kaleidoscope of murals, graffiti, and installations that reflect the city's eclectic spirit. Next, prepare to be enchanted by the Christchurch Botanic Gardens – a lush oasis sprawled over 21 hectares in the heart of the city. Lose yourself amidst towering trees, fragrant flowers, and whimsical landscapes that will transport you to a world of enchantment. Looking for something a little more adrenaline-pumping? Christchurch is your playground, offering a plethora of activities to get your heart racing. From bungy jumping off the iconic Christchurch Gondola to jet boating along the Waimakariri River, there's no shortage of ways to satisfy your craving for excitement. And for those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground, Christchurch serves as the perfect gateway to some of New Zealand's most iconic destinations.
So why stop in Christchurch? Explore more of your South Island bucket list with some of our awesome south island packages on offer!
South Island Wine Highway
Sip your way through the South Island with this 7-day self-drive journey along the Wine Highway beginning and ending in Christchurch. Enjoy unforgettable stops in the North Canterbury Wine Region, Marlborough, and Reefton partnered with unique experiences like a Kaikoura dolphin encounter, Abel Tasman National Park, and the thermal waters of Hanmer Springs – talk about a perfect pairing!
![Wine vineyard in Marlborough, New Zealand](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_Marlborough.jpeg)
![Wine vineyard in Marlborough, New Zealand](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_Marlborough.jpeg)
![Wine vineyard in Marlborough, New Zealand](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_Marlborough.jpeg)
![Lake Tekapo in New Zealand frozen in winter](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_LakeTekapo.jpeg)
![Lake Tekapo in New Zealand frozen in winter](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_LakeTekapo.jpeg)
![Lake Tekapo in New Zealand frozen in winter](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_LakeTekapo.jpeg)
South Island Snow Highway
Pack your skis and selfie stick as you set off on a 7-day self-drive adventure on the South Island Snow Highway departing Christchurch. After a day roaming the streets of Christchurch, make your way to the slopes of Methven to tick experiencing the wide-open terrain and phenomenal views from Mount Hutt off your bucket list! Jump back in the car for two days at the mesmerising Lake Tekapo, where you’ll explore glaciers by boat and delicious cuisine with your knife and fork. End your journey on the iconic ski fields of Christchurch – your last chance to make unforgettable memories on the South Island!
South Island Glacier Highway
A road-trip featuring urban charm and natural beauty, get the best of both worlds on this 7-day journey along the Glacier Highway departing Christchurch. Let the kids get up close and personal with the furry locals of Otautah while you take in that pure South Island air. Make your way to Hokitika to enjoy panoramic views and the bright lights of Glow Worm Dell, then pack the snacks and drive to Franz Josef where you’ll meet the vast Fox Glacier in all its glory. Your journey ends in Queenstown, where you’ll have many chances to fuel up at iconic eateries before chasing thrills in the adventure capital of the world.
![Woman hiking along a shallow stream through mountains](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_FranzJosef.jpg)
![Woman hiking along a shallow stream through mountains](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_FranzJosef.jpg)
![Woman hiking along a shallow stream through mountains](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_FranzJosef.jpg)
![City of Queenstown in the early evening](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_Queenstown.jpeg)
![City of Queenstown in the early evening](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_Queenstown.jpeg)
![City of Queenstown in the early evening](https://cloudinary.fclmedia.com/fctg/image/fetch/w_1600,c_fill,q_auto,g_auto,fl_progressive/https://content.flightcentre.com/sites/default/files/Christchurch_Queenstown.jpeg)
South Island Ultimate Highway
Say Kia Ora to the ultimate self-drive road trip experience and your one stop shop to ticking off your South Island bucket list! Make your way from Christchurch to Queenstown with essential stops in Hanmer Springs, Kaikoura, Blenheim, Nelson, Hokitika, and Franz Josef. With once-in-a-lifetime experiences along the way such as soaking in mineral-filled thermal pools, tasting premium wines, kayaking through national parks, and exploring vast glaciers, discover what makes the South Island special.
Christchurch's central location on the east coast of the South Island makes it an ideal launchpad for activities and attractions that draw travellers to New Zealand year after year. Head north to sample the Waipara Valley wine region, the thermal pools and spas of Hanmer Springs and whale-watching encounters in Kaikōura. In winter, head westward and hit the slopes of Mt Hutt, Ōhau and Mt Dobson ski areas. The Craigieburn Trails and Arthurs Pass National Park deep in the Southern Alps are also well worth a visit for alpine hiking and bucket-list mountain vistas.
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