Canterbury landscape is impossible to ignore. Big scenery is the order of the day - huge panoramas of ocean or mountains, great sweeps of pastureland, massive amounts of sky.

Two hours north of Christchurch is Kaikoura, where fur seals lounge on rocks just metres from the shore, dusky and Hector’s dolphins frolic in the sea within sight of town, while only a few kilometres further out, giant sperm whales haunt the depths. The sperm whale can be seen all year round off Kaikoura and is the third largest whale in the world, only beaten by the blue and fin whales.

Not far from Kaikoura is the scenic alpine and thermal village of Hanmer Springs. Since 1859 this spa town has attracted visitors seeking to relax, unwind and ease their aches and pains in the soothing mineral waters. There is a variety of outdoor activities on offer in Hanmer Springs, including skiing, mountain biking, forest walks, river rafting and bungy jumping.

Inland from Christchurch lie the magnificent Southern Alps - only an hour from the city. The village of Arthur's Pass makes an ideal base for all kinds of activities. You can also experience the TranzAlpine - one of the world's most spectacular train journeys through the Southern Alps.