Welcome to our place.
From the snow-capped Southern Alps to the sparkling waters of Caroline Bay, South Canterbury's activities and attractions change with the seasons, providing year-round fun. You'll find solace, adventure and new friends in this beautiful corner of the world.
Explore your own backyard, support LOCAL and have FUN out there.
South Canterbury offers the best activities and attractions in New Zealand. From dipping your toes in the calm waters of Caroline Bay to soaring over Aoraki Mt Cook, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of the world.
Throughout the region family-friendly activities are everywhere, along with lots of ways to explore the arts, culture and history of the area. The Mackenzie district’s clear skies and wide-open spaces are home to the only International Dark Sky Reserve in the Southern Hemisphere, and the region’s pools, museums and outdoor spaces mean kids will never be bored in South Canterbury.
After a busy day exploring, you’ll sleep well in one of the excellent accommodation options available. Whether it’s the soft pillows of a luxury lodge or the close-to-nature feel of a holiday park or camping ground, the region has it all.
Hungry? South Canterbury has superb dining options from fine dining to freshly-made barista coffee – there’s something to tantalise everyone’s taste buds. Shopping in the region combines the best of boutique stores and big box retailers, local produce and farmers’ markets so whatever you want or need, you’ll find it here.
Getting Around and helpful Resources
South Canterbury is a region of discovery and excitement. Enjoy your visit even more with these helpful links.
Activities & Attractions
A family holiday, business trip or romantic getaway? South Canterbury has activities and attractions for everyone.
Free WIFI
Public WIFI is available throughout the region, and most cafes and accommodation offer free WIFI if dining or staying.
Accommodation
You’ll feel at home in South Canterbury. Choose from backpacker and camping, hotels and motels to retreats and lodges.
Eating Out
Fish & Chips, gourmet pies to organic delicacies, fine dining to café, enjoy a rich variety of food flavours, cultures and styles.
Shopping
The best of boutique stores, farmers markets, galleries and large retailers around South Canterbury.
Book a Flight
Book your flight with Air New Zealand. Richard Pearse airport also known as Timaru airport is the main airport of South Canterbury.
Our Towns
From the peak of Aoraki/Mt Cook with startlingly clear night skies, turquoise lakes, rolling farmland, ancient Maori rock art and culture in wide open spaces, to vibrant industry and the port city of Timaru. Where history meets innovation and commerce – discover the towns of South Canterbury.
Featured Events
So much to see and do here. Find out What’s On or add your own South Canterbury event.
Know What's On In South Canterbury
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