New Zealand
Canterbury & Kaikōura
Garden city, French village and the world's best whale-watching coast
About Canterbury & Kaikōura
Canterbury is the South Island's biggest region — a sweep of patchwork plains, braided rivers and wild coastline framed by the Southern Alps. Christchurch, the rebuilt 'Garden City', is the natural gateway, with the TranzAlpine railway, Lord of the Rings high country, and Akaroa's volcanic harbour all within easy reach.
Two hours north, the small fishing town of Kaikōura sits at the edge of a deep oceanic trench where sperm whales, dusky dolphins, fur seals and albatross gather year-round — one of the most reliable marine wildlife encounters on the planet.
Signature experiences
- Kaikōura whale watching by boat or aerial spotting flight
- Hector's dolphin swim in Akaroa Harbour
- TranzAlpine rail journey across the Southern Alps
- Christchurch street-art and punting tour
- Lord of the Rings high-country day trip from Christchurch
When to visit
October to April for warmest weather and full marine wildlife season; the TranzAlpine is spectacular year-round.
Highlights
What your group will see
Kaikōura Whale Watching
Year-round sperm whale encounters in one of the richest marine ecosystems on earth.
Akaroa & Banks Peninsula
A French-flavoured village inside an ancient volcanic harbour, home to the rare Hector's dolphin.
Christchurch — The Garden City
A reborn city of street art, Botanic Gardens, punting on the Avon and a thriving food scene.
TranzAlpine Scenic Railway
One of the world's great train journeys — Christchurch to Greymouth across the Southern Alps.
Include Canterbury & Kaikōura in your tour
Every day here is planned with Glatt Kosher catering, supervision and accommodation confirmed in advance.