Christchurch and Canterbury – the gateway to New Zealand's awe-inspiring South Island and a destination like no other. Easily accessible because of its world-class international airport, Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and a fantastic place to live, work, play and visit.
The city is rich with natural blessings – a beautiful coastline, a meandering river and undulating hills – but it also has everything you would expect in a modern city. There are world-class facilities for conferencing, a range of accommodation to suit all budgets, and an ever-changing array of festivities and events to keep visitors and locals entertained. Soon it will boast a brand new state-of-the-art convention centre in a new-look central business district that will be the envy of cities around the world.
Seasonal delights
No matter what time of year you visit Christchurch, it delivers up something special each season.
Spring - September to November
Christchurch is renowned worldwide as the Garden City. In Spring it is full bloom with New Zealand Cup and Show Week, and biennial events like Akaroa's French Festival and New Zealand IceFest celebrating our unique relationship with Antarctica.
Summer - December to February
Summer heralds the World Buskers Festival and Garden City SummerTimes with a host of free outdoor events in the city's expansive network of parks. Ellerslie International Flower Show delights more than 45,000 visitors in late February.
Autumn - March to May
Time for Christchurch's tree-lined parks and avenues to turn brilliant colours, the New Zealand Jazz and Blues Festival, and delicious wine and food festivals.
Winter - June to August
Enjoy Canterbury's winter wonderland, with snow on the mountains surrounding the city. Celebrate with the Festival of Lights in Lyttelton and enjoy the arts with the popular biennial Christchurch Arts Festival.
Regional wonders
Journey a short distance out of Christchurch and you will find lush vineyards, alpine hot pools, snowy peaks, and an ancient volcanic peninsula dotted with charming townships, hidden bays and breathtaking views. Regional destinations like the French-influenced settlement of Akaroa, the thermal resort of Hanmer Springs, and Mackenzie's starry skies offer fabulous options for business events.
