In partnership with 
Overview
Christchurch is a nature lover's dream. As soon as you arrive you'll notice the crisp air, and you'll soon find out that you're surrounded by scenes of otherworldly, serene natural beauty. From the beautifully rugged mountains of Arthur's Pass to the deserted beaches of the Akaroa Peninsula, you will no doubt find something that will take your breath away.
Venture just outside of the Christchurch city centre and it's almost as if you're in another world. Drive for ten minutes in almost any direction and you'll discover something unexpected. Adventurous souls and nature lovers will relish the chance to get in touch with the great outdoors — perhaps by swimming with dolphins or barrelling through the hills on a mountain bike. It was incredibly hard to choose, but here are five of our favourite experiences to take on when you're in Christchurch.
EXPLORE THE ARTHUR'S PASS WALKING TRACK
The Arthur's Pass National Park track is one of Christchurch's most majestic walks. Starting at a quaint little alpine village just two hours out of Christchurch, you'll journey over terrain surrounded by mountains on either side, until you reach the Dobson Memorial at the Arthur's Pass summit. Spend a moment paying tribute to Arthur Dobson, the first European to scale the pass over a hundred years ago. The entire walk is seven kilometres return, but if you're just after a quick one there are multiple shorter routes you can take. Wander between creeks, valleys and scenery until you find the Devils Punchbowl Falls — a 112-metre-high waterfall plunging through native bush.
LOOK UP AT ONE OF THE WORLD'S DARKEST SKIES
Mackenzie is home to one of the only International Dark Sky Reserves (IDSR) in the world — land which usually surrounds a park or observatory and is home to exceptional views of starry nights. The darkness of the sky in this region of New Zealand is almost unbeatable, and it's the perfect place for a bit of stargazing. At Big Sky Stargazing you'll sit down for an astronomy lesson at the planetarium and take a short drive to an outdoor stargazing area where you'll use telescopes, astronomy binoculars and your own eyes to look up at constellations and enjoy spectacular, peaceful views.
Image: Margaret Sikora.
SWIM WITH SEALS AND DOLPHINS IN AKAROA
If you're ready to start exploring the sea, head back out to the beautiful Akaroa Harbour and swim with wild New Zealand fur seals. You'll get up close and personal with the puppies of the sea, interacting with them and having a little play in their natural habitat. While you're on holiday in Christchurch it'd be criminal to miss one of the top ten marine mammal experiences in the world: swimming with the Hector's dolphins, the world's rarest breed. In an intimate group of 12 divers, you'll cruise out to the stunning Akaroa Harbour, just an hour-and-a-half from Christchurch's city centre, before coming face to face with one of New Zealand's most precious (and cheeky) native species.
WANDER CHRISTCHURCH'S NATURAL LANDSCAPE
Lush rolling hills are surrounded by a crystal blue expanse of water on the edges of Christchurch. If you venture slightly out from the town centre, you can explore deserted beaches and dramatic landscapes that have to be seen to be believed. In the small town of Akaroa on the water's edge, you'll find a beautiful cluster of old English-style buildings. Whether you're after a short stroll or a day-long hike, the idyllic beaches, rough bush and winding tracks of this quiet little area will keep you more than occupied. If you need more convincing, take another look at the above photo.
PADDLE THROUGH POHATU IN A KAYAK
Head to Akaroa and jump into a 4WD for a spectacular scenic safari. Travel for just over an hour through the highest passes of the Banks Peninsula with Pohatu Adventures until you reach Pohatu Marine Reserve. When you arrive you'll discover the Christchurch region's most abundant wildlife ecosystem up close via kayak. Get ready to paddle alongside blue penguins, seals and Hector's dolphins. If the water is calm, get ready to sweat as you paddle out to Flea Bay Island — a mass of land characterised by desolate beaches, sheer sea cliffs and mysterious caves.
Maybe you've been to New Zealand's North Island, but have you ever ventured down South? Christchurch, and New Zealand's surrounding Canterbury region, is the perfect place for a quick holiday. Use our planning guide to book your trip, then sort out your itinerary with our food, adventure and relaxation guides.
Images: Andrea Schaffer, Eli Duke and Bernard Spragg.