Canterbury Region is a region located in the mid-eastern part of New Zealand's South Island, known for its vast plains and beautiful mountainous terrain. Canterbury is one of the largest regions in New Zealand, centered around its main city, Christchurch, and has a well-developed agriculture, livestock farming, and tourism industry. The region, set against the majestic Southern Alps, is suitable for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountaineering, and its diverse natural landscapes including green plains, glaciers, and lakes are well preserved, showcasing the quintessential natural beauty of New Zealand.

1. Vast Canterbury Plains

   Most of the Canterbury region consists of wide plains, and thanks to fertile soil, agriculture and livestock farming thrive. The Canterbury Plains are one of the largest plains areas in New Zealand, with extensive cultivation of wheat, barley, and pastures, and the landscape is impressive with vast grasslands spreading out.

2. Christchurch – "The Garden City"

   The central city of the Canterbury region, Christchurch, is nicknamed the 'Garden City' and features many beautiful gardens and parks, allowing people to enjoy nature even in the city center. It is a city with a British atmosphere and traditions, blending diverse cultures, arts, and a relaxed lifestyle.

3. The Southern Alps and Various Outdoor Activities

   Canterbury, with the Southern Alps as its backdrop, is a region where various outdoor activities are possible. In winter, you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding, while in summer, hiking, mountain biking, camping, rock climbing, and other activities are popular. The representative ski resort is Mount Hutt.

4. Unique Ecology and Natural Scenery

   Canterbury is a region where glaciers, lakes, sea, and mountains all come together, boasting unique natural landscapes such as Aoraki/Mount Cook, Lake Pukaki, and Lake Tekapo. This area is also famous as an astronomical observation site, with an international dark sky reserve for star gazing.

1. Christchurch

   The central city of the Canterbury region and the second largest city in New Zealand. Christchurch is famous for its beautiful gardens and parks, and the Avon River running through the city center adds a unique charm. Since the 2011 earthquake, the city has been undergoing reconstruction, with distinctive architecture and innovative art spaces being developed.

2. Ashburton

   A city located in the heart of the Canterbury plains, serving as a center for agriculture and livestock farming. Ashburton is a quiet rural town where you can enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, golf, and trekking, and experience traditional farming life in New Zealand.

3. Tekapo

   A small village formed around Lake Tekapo, known for its dark sky reserve ideal for astronomical observation and stargazing. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are possible, while in summer, many visitors come for hiking and camping.

4. Timaru

   A port city located on the southern coast of Canterbury, famous for its Victorian-style architecture and Caroline Bay. Timaru is a city with a rich arts and culture scene, featuring various museums and galleries, as well as beaches where you can spend a relaxing time.

1. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

   This national park is home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand, and is a representative tourist destination featuring majestic mountainous terrain and glaciers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain climbing, and helicopter tours to get close views of glaciers and snow-capped mountains. It is also famous as a stargazing spot. Especially, the scenery with Lake Pukaki and Mount Aoraki in the background is very beautiful.

2. Lake Tekapo

   A lake with clear blue waters, surrounded by impressive landscapes of lavender fields and lupin flowers in bloom. Lake Tekapo is popular for stargazing due to its beautiful night skies and is designated as an observatory and dark sky reserve. The ’Church of the Good Shepherd’ by the lakeside is a famous photo spot.

3. Christchurch Botanic Gardens

   Located in the center of Christchurch, this botanical garden features beautiful gardens and a variety of plants along the Avon River. Visitors can admire native New Zealand plants as well as various exotic species, making it a great place for walks or picnics.

4. Avon River Punting

   A tourist attraction where you can take a traditional flat-bottomed boat called a ‘punt’ on the Avon River flowing through Christchurch. It resembles the gondolas of Venice, Italy, and allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Christchurch along the river.

5. Mount Hutt Ski Resort

   A representative ski resort in the Canterbury region where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter. Skiing is available in the magnificent mountainous terrain of the Southern Alps, and thanks to abundant snow, the ski season is long, making it a popular spot for skiers from both within New Zealand and abroad.

6. Caroline Bay

   A popular beach park located in Timaru, attracting many visitors during the summer. The beach and park blend well together, and the Caroline Bay Carnival held every summer is very popular among locals and tourists.

7. Ashburton Aviation and Railway Museum

   A museum located in Ashburton exhibiting various modes of transportation including aircraft, trains, and steam locomotives. It is an interesting place for visitors interested in transportation.

8. Arthur’s Pass National Park

   A national park located at Arthur’s Pass crossing the Southern Alps, offering a close experience of the nature of New Zealand’s South Island. Activities such as hiking, climbing, and waterfall viewing can be enjoyed, and visitors can observe unique alpine plants and animals.