Top Canterbury How to Get Around in 2026

Take to the sky with this scenic hot air balloon ride that departs from the foothills around Mt. Hutt. Your pilots will elevate you to 9,500 feet above the Canterbury Plains, offering panoramic views west to the mountains and east to the Pacific Ocean. Glide above treetops and admire the landscape below, including the snow-capped Southern Alps. This easy-level experience suits those comfortable with gentle physical activity.

Embark on the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter whale watching tour for a unique wildlife and scenic adventure. Fly over the Kaikōura Whale Sanctuary and Hikurangi Marine Reserve, where you’ll spot majestic marine life including sperm whales, humpback whales, blue whales, orcas, and other migratory species. The helicopter’s manoeuvrability offers incredible views of the whales and dolphins, with close-up photo opportunities you can’t get from boats. Keep an eye out for playful Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals near the shore. Continue the adventure north along the rugged Kaikōura coastline and land in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges. From this exclusive mountaintop location, enjoy 360-degree views of Kaikōura Peninsula, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding mountains—an unforgettable experience for photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

Our Merino Farm Experience allows you to enjoy a slice of kiwi (New Zealand) rural life. Be guided by the family owners and operators on the property since 1884. See the sheep and sometimes our cattle roaming the fields. Visit our woolshed and learn more about how we shear our sheep, Touch the super fine wool and see what the product gets made into. Travel to the top of the farm for panoramic views of the southern alps and rivers. Visit our house gardens, both Flowers and vegetables. Meet our working dogs and pet sheep. Feed our friendly sheep, touch their wool and grab a selfie! Private tours can be arranged by request.

Experience the mahi on a one hour guided tour and learn about efforts to restore the land to its pre-European tunga (situation). Experience a one-hour interactive guided tour of the of the property from April to November. Your experienced guide has been sharing the stories of Aotearoa with people from around the globe for many years. At the end of the tour you are welcome to stay on and soak in the sounds, silence and sensations of our place. The opportunity to purchase our lavender products is available, as is the chance to enjoy our famous bush coffee/tea and a "kiwi as" snack. Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet. The income from our farm tours goes directly back into our conservation and regeneration programme. Booking is essential, no walk-ins. Contact us for a group tour bookings or for tours outside advertised hours. The road is not suitable for camper-vans, please phone us to discuss alternative arrangements.

The mix of warm and cold currents found underwater in Kaikōura Canyon supports a vast diversity of marine life, making it one of New Zealand’s most unique locations. This small-group helicopter journey above the canyon, including a landing in the Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, allows the spotting of humpback, southern right, blue, and sperm whales, as well as the chance to see dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals—all from a vantage point most travelers miss.

Discover the charm of Oasis Cottage, a private 5-acre country garden nestled near the foothills of the Southern Alps. This exclusive tour offers an intimate glimpse into a historic property, complete with seasonal blooms, formal gardens, and lush natural landscapes. Wander through the enchanting Blue Garden, explore the vegetable allée and orchard, and enjoy the tranquil duck pond with rural views and abundant birdlife. What sets this tour apart is the unique opportunity to visit the Oasis Cottage floral studio and greenhouse. Learn about the art of growing and arranging cut flowers for stunning European-inspired bouquets. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or a lover of floral artistry, this personalised experience is designed to delight and inspire. With breathtaking vistas of Mount Oxford as your backdrop and peaceful pathways to explore, this private tour provides an unforgettable retreat into nature. Book now to experience the beauty and creativity of Oasis Cottage.

Visitors with limited time in Christchurch don’t need to miss out on experiencing some of the South Island’s most beautiful mountain scenery on this private day tour to Arthurs Pass. Avoid the hassle of self-driving on mountain roads: sit back and enjoy the views while your driver drives. Be amazed by the mountain lakes, braided rivers, glacial valleys, forests, and high passes you’ll see throughout the day.

Explore the Canterbury High Country with spectacular panoramic views of the Southern alps. Your pilot will personally guide your journey along the iconic braided rivers and patchwork tapestry of the Canterbury plains to a mountain landing which gives a chance to pause for a while, breath the fresh mountain air and take it all in. You may even sight wild deer and chamois in the region. *When seasons allow this will include a snow landing and can be customized should you want more time or to add activities.

A ride on our 'magic carpet' will see you whisked away to a scenic hilltop landing with panoramic views. Escape to peace and quiet and take a moment to reset in the fresh mountain air. Our spots overlooking the Canterbury plains and coastline provide the perfect setting for a special celebration, proposal, romantic getaway, or just a few drinks with friends. An optional picnic can be included. Talk to our team about organizing this or you are welcome to bring you own!

Experience a seasonal one-hour guided tour of the lavender fields from late November to mid-February. The story of our lavender farm is shared as you walk amongst 5,000 plus lavender plants. The opportunity to purchase lavender products is available, as is the chance to try our famous Lavenade. At the end of the tour, you are free to wander through the lavender fields and on a short track to a picnic area amongst the forest. Facilities include an outdoor composting toilet. The income from our farm tours goes directly back into our conservation and regeneration programme. Booking is essential, no walk-ins. Contact us for a group tour bookings or for tours outside advertised hours.

Experience the ultimate Kaikōura helicopter tour and witness New Zealand’s incredible marine life from above. Fly over the renowned Kaikōura Canyon to spot Sperm, Humpback, Southern Right, Orca, or even Blue whales, depending on the season. This extended scenic flight gives you more time to enjoy whale sightings and coastal views. Spot Dusky dolphins and New Zealand fur seals as you cruise along the shoreline. Land at a remote site only accessible by South Pacific Helicopters, where you'll take in breathtaking views of the mountains and ocean. This unforgettable whale watching and wildlife experience is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Hike in a rugged back country setting without a heavy pack. Daily luggage transfers mean you only need to carry your lunch and the trails are designed to showcase huge mountain scenery without being over-strenuous. All of your meal supplies and sleeping equipment are provided. The track suits those with medium fitness and capability, it is not suitable to unfit people or those carrying injuries. However there is always a way out if you feel unwell and you can be transported to the next camp. The Island Hills Station hosts Shaun and Haley are genuine rural kiwi's from farming background, they will get to know you and look after your wellbeing with hand held radio communications for each group, evening weather updates and 24 hour contact. Those hot showers each day are a real treat!

Hike in a rugged back country setting without a heavy pack. Daily luggage transfers mean you only need to carry your lunch and the trails are designed to showcase huge mountain scenery without being over-strenuous. All of your meal supplies and sleeping equipment are provided. The track suits those with medium fitness and capability, it is not suitable to unfit people or those carrying injuries. However there is always a way out if you feel unwell and you can be transported to the next camp. The Island Hills Station hosts Shaun and Haley are genuine rural kiwi's from farming background, they will get to know you and look after your wellbeing with hand held radio communications for each group, evening weather updates and 24 hour contact. Those hot showers each day are a real treat!

Hike in a rugged back country setting without a heavy pack. Daily luggage transfers mean you only need to carry your lunch and the trails are designed to showcase huge mountain scenery without being over-strenous. The track suits those with medium fitness and capabilty, it is not suitable to unfit people or those carrying injuries. However there is always a way out if you feel unwell and you can be transported to the next camp. The Island Hills Station hosts Shaun and Haley are genuine rural kiwi's from farming background, they will get to know you and look after your wellbeing with hand hald radio communications for each group, evening weather updates and 24 hour contact. Those hot showers each day are a real treat!

Now's the time to wine and dine in the stunning North Canterbury wine region of Waipara. Enjoy a guided tour from your pilot en route, showcasing the best of the region. A four-course lunch with wine pairing is included, and weather permitting, let's stop off on the way home with a hilltop landing! This can be customized to suit your needs, so if you need to stop off at another winery for some tasting or mix things up a bit, let's talk!

Hike in a rugged back country setting without a heavy pack. Daily luggage transfers mean you only need to carry your lunch and the trails are designed to showcase huge mountain scenery without being over-strenous. The track suits those with medium fitness and capabilty, it is not suitable to unfit people or those carrying injuries. However there is always a way out if you feel unwell and you can be transported to the next camp. The Island Hills Station hosts Shaun and Haley are genuine rural kiwi's from farming background, they will get to know you and look after your wellbeing with hand hald radio communications for each group, evening weather updates and 24 hour contact. Those hot showers each day are a real treat!