Things to Do in Canterbury Region — New Zealand: Top Attractions, Tours & Tickets

#1Castle Hill / Kura Tawhiti Conservation AreaMust4.8(2,819)

The immense limestone formations make this one of Canterbury's unmistakable landscapes, equally rewarding for a short wander, photography, or a longer climbing-focused stop. It is an essential break on the route between Christchurch and Arthur's Pass, not merely a roadside photo stop.

2h FreeVisit early or toward sunset; midday brings the busiest parking and flattest light.

Pairs with: Arthur's Pass National Park · Mt Sunday Swing Bridge · Lake Tekapo

#2Aoraki / Mount Cook National ParkMust

This is Canterbury's defining alpine landscape and the strongest case for pushing deep into the Mackenzie country. Base yourself nearby long enough to take a valley walk, watch the shifting mountain weather, and leave room to change plans if cloud closes in.

4h FreeStart walks early, before day-trippers arrive and before afternoon cloud or wind can build.

Pairs with: Lake Tekapo · Castle Hill / Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area

#3Lake TekapoMust

Lake Tekapo combines Canterbury's signature turquoise lake-and-mountain scenery with an easy base for the Mackenzie country. Use it for a lakeside pause, a night under dark skies, and as the natural staging point before or after Aoraki / Mount Cook.

2.5h FreeVisit at dawn or after the day-tour rush; reserve paid stargazing experiences well ahead in peak season.

Pairs with: Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park · Castle Hill / Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area · Raincliff Historic Reserve

#4Arthur's Pass National ParkMust

Arthur's Pass is the classic Southern Alps crossing: dramatic valleys, waterfalls, beech forest, and serious hiking all close to the road and rail corridor. It deserves more than a fuel stop, whether you choose an easy waterfall walk or build a day around a longer track.

4h FreeArrive early and check road and track conditions, especially outside settled summer weather.

Pairs with: Castle Hill / Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area · Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

#5Akaroa HarbourMust

Akaroa is Canterbury's most distinctive coastal escape, with a compact historic settlement set inside a volcanic harbour. Make it an unhurried day or overnight trip for harbour views, a cruise or kayak outing, and the scenic drive over Banks Peninsula.

4h FreeArrive before late morning in summer, when day visitors and cruise-related traffic make the village feel much busier.

Pairs with: Kaikōura Peninsula

#6Kaikōura PeninsulaMust

Few places in the region bring mountains, rocky shoreline, seabirds, seals, and marine-wildlife excursions together as effectively as Kaikōura. Walk the peninsula first, then choose a boat or flight experience only if weather and budget cooperate.

3h Walk upWalk the peninsula early; wildlife tours are calmer and more reliable in settled morning conditions.

Pairs with: Akaroa Harbour

#7Sharplin Falls ReserveShould4.6(122)

This is one of the better accessible forest-and-waterfall walks on the Ashburton Lakes side of the region. Use it as a half-day outing from Mount Somers or as a greener counterpoint to Canterbury's open high-country landscapes.

2h FreeStart in the morning, especially on weekends and during summer holidays.

Pairs with: Washpen Falls · Emily Falls

#8Mt Sunday Swing BridgeShould4.9(46)

The bridge is the practical gateway to the dramatic Mount Sunday valley, familiar to many visitors as a filming landscape rather than as a built attraction. Come for the broad mountain setting and combine it with other Hakatere high-country stops rather than treating the bridge itself as the destination.

1.3h FreeAim for early morning or late afternoon for quieter roads and better light on the surrounding peaks.

Pairs with: Emily Falls · Castle Hill / Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area

#9Washpen FallsShould4.7(570)

A privately managed farm walk with waterfalls, limestone scenery, and a more varied circuit than many roadside Canterbury stops. It is especially worthwhile for travelers moving between Christchurch, the foothills, and the Mackenzie country who want an active detour.

2.5h Walk upGo near opening or later in the afternoon; confirm seasonal access and weather before setting out.

Pairs with: Sharplin Falls Reserve · Raincliff Historic Reserve

#10Emily FallsIf time4.7(28)

A low-key backcountry waterfall stop for travelers already exploring the high-country roads and short walks around the Rangitata area. It is not a reason to cross Canterbury on its own, but it makes a satisfying nature break when conditions are good.

45m FreeGo earlier in the day and check recent weather; access can feel more remote after rain.

Pairs with: Mt Sunday Swing Bridge · Sharplin Falls Reserve

#11Raincliff Historic ReserveIf time3.5(11)

This small reserve preserves important rock-art sites and rewards visitors who want a more human-history-focused stop than Canterbury's usual mountain itinerary offers. Treat it as a brief, respectful detour while traveling through South Canterbury rather than a stand-alone major sight.

35m FreeWeekday daylight visits are best; allow extra care after wet weather.

Pairs with: Washpen Falls · Lake Tekapo