10 TOP Things to Do in Canterbury August 2026

A coastal town with houses on a hillside, boats on the water, and green hills in the background.

A clear mountain stream surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks in the background.

A mountain range at sunset, a lake, and purple lupine flowers.

A bridge over a turquoise river with purple flowers in the foreground.

A snow-covered mountain range with a valley in the foreground.

Activities

Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

AU$107

per adult

100% of travellers recommend

Blokarts suitable for ages 8 to 80+ with tandem karts available for those not ready to go it alone.

Uniquely Kiwi Landsailing Adventure

AU$82

per adult

Christchurch: Orana Wildlife Park Admission

AU$33

per adult

90% of travellers recommend

Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch

AU$164

per adult

96% of travellers recommend

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Pass for Hot Pools

Lake Tekapo: Single Day Multiple Entry Pass for Hot Pools

AU$33

per adult

76% of travellers recommend

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

AU$35

per adult

80% of travellers recommend

Ōpuke Thermal Pools - Tranquility Pools

AU$57

per adult

100% of travellers recommend

Skip the Line: Franz Josef Wildlife Center Ticket with Optional Backstage Pass

AU$54

per adult

Christchurch: Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram

AU$37

per adult

96% of travellers recommend

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Top places to visit

1. Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is a fantastic place to enjoy New Zealand’s winter, with skiing and snow sports, hot springs, and snow-capped mountains and glaciers sparkling in the sun. During summer, water sports and hiking are popular. Enjoy the scenic beauty while hiking near mountain peaks, beech forests and a landscape carved by glacial movement.

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2. Lyttelton Harbour

The quaint harbor at Lyttelton sits on an ancient volcanic crater. The steep hills rising around the port town reach a height of 1,640 feet (500 meters), and are known as the Port Hills. In the town, you’ll find an excellent choice of restaurants, shops and cafés. Observe sea and birdlife out on the deep harbor with cruises run by local operators.

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A coastal town with a harbor, mountains in the background, and a clear sky.

3. Lake Pukaki

Lake Pukaki sits below New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Combined the lake and mountain create one of the country’s most awe-inspiring vistas. When you see the ethereal, turquoise color of the water, which turns milky when the clouds roll in, you may want to pinch yourself to check if you aren’t dreaming.

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A mountain range with snow-capped peaks, a dense forest, and a turquoise lake.

4. Tekapo Springs

Soak in soothing heated pools or pamper yourself with a remedial treatment at the Tekapo Springs spa.

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A swimming pool with a mountainous backdrop.

5. Sumner Beach

Lie on the soft, warm sand and work on your tan or swim in the shallow waters at gorgeous Sumner Beach. Explore the iconic Cave Rock or unwind with a drink at one of the bars that overlook the ocean when you visit Christchurch’s favourite weekend destination.

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A sandy beach with a windmill, rocky outcrops, and a hillside with houses.

6. Church of the Good Shepherd

Take in the exceptional views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains with a visit to the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd. Explore the small building’s simple but charming main chamber and chat with the vicar about the history of the local area. Be sure to walk around the grounds, taking in magnificent alpine views.

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A stone church under a starry night sky.

7. New Brighton Beach

New Brighton Beach is a great coastal retreat to visit when holidaying in Christchurch. The beach boasts about 18 kilometres (11 miles) of golden sand, stretching from the mouth of the Waimakariri River to South Spit. Activities at New Brighton Beach range from surfing in rolling waves to wildlife spotting and walking amid untamed landscapes. Find accommodation options, cafés, restaurants and a weekly market at the village adjoining the beach.

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A yellow building with arched windows and a sign for 'Pizza Hut'.

What to do in Canterbury

Stay near popular Canterbury attractions

A mountain path with snow-capped peaks and green vegetation.

Aoraki / Mount Cook

9.6/10 (613 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Aoraki / Mount Cook and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Mount Cook. Wander the lakeside in this quaint area.

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Our guide on where to stay in Canterbury

Find the best Canterbury areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Canterbury

A colorful street with a tram, outdoor cafes, and a restaurant named "The Nook Thai".

Christchurch City Centre

Christchurch City Centre is a destination visitors seek out for its abundant dining options, interesting museums and colourful gardens. You might want to check out attractions like Christchurch Art Gallery or Cathedral Square while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

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An airport runway with surrounding fields and buildings.

Christchurch Airport

While Christchurch Airport may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like International Antarctic Centre and Harewood Golf Club.

A large, historic house with red trim and multiple chimneys.

Riccarton

Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.

A cityscape with a mix of modern and historic buildings, surrounded by green parks and a river.

Merivale

Travellers come to Merivale for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Merivale Mall and Papanui Road while you're in town.

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A coastal landscape with mountains, a bay, and a small town.

Addington

Unique features of Addington include the theatres and live music. Make a stop by Apollo Projects Stadium or Addington Raceway while you're exploring the area.

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