Visit Christchurch

The ‘Garden City' of Christchurch is the second largest city in New Zealand and the gateway to the Canterbury region and other parts of the South Island. It has long been regarded as the country's most English city, with neo-gothic architecture, a winding river, punting students and weeping willows making it a most enchanting city.

While its charming colonial centre was damaged in an earthquake in 2011, a rebuilding project took place and the beauty of the area wasn't diminished.

The international airport remains the arrival point for most South Island visitors and, from here, it is easy to venture out to the unaffected Banks Peninsula. Perhaps make for Mount Cook on a self-drive or explore the many highlights of the central South Island.

Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £3,790 pp

With boutique hotel stays and car hire included throughout, this curated road trip perfectly showcases the unique cultures and natural wonders of New Zealand's North and South islands.

Cultural Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £5,630 pp

A tip-to-toe tour of New Zealand, taking in the best of its landscapes and culture, and calling into filming locations from The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

Port Douglas beach, Queensland, Australia

Australia and New Zealand Discoverer

21-day tailor-made holiday from £5,305 pp incl. flights

Combine the highlights of two spectacular countries, from New Zealand's mighty glaciers and remote fjords to an Australian road trip exploring stunning beaches, waterside cities and iconic Uluru.

New Zealand by Motorhome

20-day motorhome self-drive from £4,685 pp

With its spectacular driving routes linking gorgeous coastlines and vast national parks, and plenty of gorgeous locations to pull up and park, find out why New Zealand is tailor-made for a motorhome holiday.

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Top places to stay in Christchurch

Otahuna Lodge, Christchurch

Small & intimate lodge

Built in 1895 for Sir Heaton Rhodes, Otahuna Lodge is a stylish and elegant Victorian mansion set with beautiful manicured gardens on the outskirts of Christchurch on New Zealand's stunning South Island.

Annandale, Akaroa

Accommodation

This ultra luxurious lodge sets the highest possible standards and in service, facilities, location and cuisine; four individual villas located on a working farm in a remote region of coastal beauty around an hours’ drive from Christchurch.