The highest point of the region is the highest point of New Zealand. The spectacular Aoraki Mount Cook stands at 3754 metres (Aoraki is Maori for Cloud Piercer). At the other end of the scale, the submarine trenches off the coast of Kaikoura are thousands of metres deep, providing an ideal environment for the whales, dolphins and seals that live there permanently.
Between the mountains and the sea, the vast plains are patchworked with the patterns of rural life. Hundreds of years ago, Maori moa hunters worked these plains leaving a rock art record of their successes.
In the two cities of the region, Christchurch and Timaru, great care has been taken to preserve Canterbury’s colonial heritage. Grand architecture, historic homesteads and immaculate parks intermingle with the technology and style of modern life.
Accommodation from prices shown are per person based on 2 people sharing a room for 3 nights and do not include transfers.
A really good 8-day circular trip starting and finishing in Christchurch and touching on some of the incredible scenery and sights of this, the most majestic of Islands anywhere in the world.
tour only price from£715
Spend 8 days discovering New Zealand's South Island with its stunning lakes, snow capped mountains and amazing glaciers. Highlights include visiting Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo.
tour only price from£999
For those who only have a 2 week holiday in New Zealand, then your best bet is to head straight for the South Island. This tour is our most popular, with accommodation choices galore.
tour only price from£1085
A great Premier Escorted tour around the beautiful scenic spots of New Zealand's South Island.
tour only price from£1889
If you are short on time then this 9-Day South Island tour is really wonderful and simply perfect and unbeatable both for quality and value for money.
tour only price from£2115
If you like walking this tour has been carefully handpicked just for you. This incredible journey takes you to many of New Zealand's South Island scenic areas and includes several great day walks.
tour only price from£2235
Explore and enjoy some of New Zealand's unique flora, fauna and scenery on this 15-day wildlife-lover's tour of the South Island.
tour only price from£2585
Our best South Island Small Group Tour, covering all the main sights and vistas that the South Island has to offer, plus a few wonderful added extras that no other tours offer.
tour only price from£2755
A comprehensive self-drive itinerary of the North and South Islands with great opportunities to experience the wonderful native wildlife and natural landscapes.
tour only price from£3295
The Chateau on the Park is resort style hotel accommodation in Christchurch and is set amongst 5 acres of tranquil surroundings and gorgeous gardens.
3 nights from£135
A small 55 bedroomed haven of understated luxury, great location, really nice rooms and has to be one of the nicest spots to stay in Christchurch.
3 nights from£299
Alternatively, call our travel experts who will be happy to answer your questions
01342 310 581
in Christchurch & Canterbury
"Take out a hot air balloon ride across the Canterbury plains."