Great Itineraries

Great Itineraries

If You Have 3 Days

Spend at least one day exploring Christchurch, strolling through the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, poking around the Arts Centre, and riding the Christchurch Gondola for a sweeping view of the region. If you have any interest in the frozen continent, don't miss the International Antarctic Centre; if gardens are your thing, head out to Mona Vale for afternoon tea. With your remaining time, take a day trip to Akaroa, where you could take a dolphin-spotting cruise, or Hanmer Springs to soak in the hot springs.

If You Have 5 Days

Follow the itinerary above, spending a bit more time on the sights in Christchurch, perhaps doing a bit of punting and checking out the Christchurch Art Gallery -- Te Puna O Waiwhetu. Then branch out into a few day trips; after you've been to Akaroa or Hanmer Springs, consider some vineyard visits in the Waipara Valley or check out the Southern Alps at Arthur's Pass. If it's ski season, of course, Methven and Mt. Hutt will be calling.

If You Have 7 Days

Start with at least a day in Christchurch, taking a guided walk during the morning or visiting the museums, gardens, or galleries that interest you. Next head for Hanmer Springs to hike and soak in the pools. After an overnight there, head south and stop in the Waipara Valley for wine tastings and a meal. Next drive over to Methven, where you can either go skiing or jet-boating in season. Spend the night here and make for Geraldine and Timaru the next day. Alternatively, head up to Arthur's Pass and spend a day hiking into the mountains or taking a walk to a nearby waterfall. On Day 6, head back to Christchurch and spend another afternoon sightseeing. Spend your last day spotting dolphins on a cruise from Akaroa and enjoy the slice-of-paradise feeling of the bays on the Banks Peninsula.