Canterbury Family Fun and Activities, New Zealand
WAIMAK RIVER RIDING CENTRE - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury Ride a horse along the banks of the Waimakariri River in the dappled light of willow and poplar trees, over large open grassland areas or out onto the wide river bed. Just 15 minutes’ drive from Christchurch city centre and you are in the countryside. Splash through the crystal clear waters of the river. First timers to experienced. Children welcome...(more)
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WILLOWBANK WILDLIFE RESERVE - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury Meet Kiwi, cheeky Kea, ancient Tuatara, our bush parrot the Kaka and the rare Takahe - New Zealand's Big 5. Close encounters of the 'wildlife kind' are a trademark. Feed wild eels and make friends with the livestock breeds unique to New Zealand. Hear the kiwi as they forage by your feet. Open from 9:30 am till dusk daily...(more)
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ADVENTURE TRAILRIDES - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury - Springfield and Great Alpine Highway Enjoy the adventure of offroad motorcycle and quadbike fun, riding the best high country trails NZ has to offer. Trails suitable for novice to experienced riders. Coaching can be arranged for beginners. We provide transport from Christchurch, all riding gear, experienced guide, snacks, drinks, latest model trail and quad bikes from 100cc to 450cc. Half-day/day tours departing all year round...(more)
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AIR FORCE MUSEUM OF NEW ZEALAND - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury Experience one of the world's best military aviation collections at the Air Force Museum of New Zealand; from aircraft, engines and assorted parts to medals and personal war stories. Come and explore our collection, fly a simulator, take a guided tour and enjoy our children's activities. FREE ADMISSION, open daily...(more) |
AIR MILFORD - QueenstownLocation: Canterbury - Mt Cook Air Milford proudly operates a brand new Cessna Caravan aircraft, it is one of the safest aircraft flying today. This aircraft offers leather seating, quiet air-conditioned comfort with great viewing for all passengers. Family owned and operated, with a 100% safety record. Flights to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, the Southern Alps and the Glaciers...(more)
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AKAROA FOX II SAILING AND WILDLIFE TOURS - AkaroaLocation: Canterbury Sail with dolphins on New Zealand's oldest ketch, the Fox II. See seals, penguins, albatross, and other sea birds on this sailing experience; as crew, or simply relax. Quiet, eco-friendly green boat, two masts, six red sails. Food, refreshments, complimentary coffee/tea. 2.5 hours, departing twice daily from Dalys Wharf, Akaroa late Dec-May. Perfect for company functions, weddings or private charters...(more)
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AKAROA GUIDED KAYAK SAFARIS - AkaroaLocation: Canterbury Based in the stunning French seaside town of Akaroa, one of the best locations to sea kayak in NZ, Akaroa Guided Kayak Safaris sea kayaking tours are in an untouched marine reserve. We provide guided 5-star kayaking tours that are Serene, Special, Spectacular and Safe! Our local, knowledgeable guides are the best in the business...(more)
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ALPACA FARM TOURS - AkaroaLocation: Canterbury Your Akaroa Alpaca Farm Tour experience takes you on a scenic-drive to the western-side of Akaroa Harbour to Shamarra Alpaca Farm. Our Akaroa alpaca farm has stunning harbour views. Alpaca farmers, Frank and Anya, will treat you to an interesting and interactive introduction to these animals (renowned for their ultra-fine fleece). Refreshments are included on these Akaroa farm tours...(more)
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ALPINE HORSE SAFARIS - Hawarden, North CanterburyLocation: Canterbury - Hanmer Springs Spend your holiday on one of our exhilarating trail rides in the high country of New Zealand's South Island. Enjoy a guided horse riding trip from two hours to twelve days though the North Canterbury high country. See spectacular scenery including snow-capped mountains, vast river flats, crystal clear lakes and rivers...(more) |
A-MAZE-N-GOLF - Hanmer SpringsLocation: Canterbury - Hanmer Springs Be in for lots of surprises along the way when you solve the mystery of the Lost Temple, or have a go at our Gold Rush themed 18-hole mini golf course. Great for school camps, birthday parties, corporate challenges, social club events and fundraising, ask us about group discounts. Located only a two-minute drive or five-minute walk from village centre...(more)
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ANTIGUA BOAT SHEDS - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury Hire a canoe, paddle boat or historic row boat on the Avon River to see the beauty of Christchurch Botanic Gardens with Antigua Boat Sheds. Relax and enjoy the tranquil scenery while devouring a fabulous breakfast or brunch from our licensed cafe, on the banks of the River Avon. Also offering bike hire, embark on an urban-sightseeing adventure...(more)
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ARION FARM EDUCATION PARK - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury See, touch, feed, and learn about a variety of farm animals and their history and contribution to the New Zealand economy at the Arion Farm Education Park. Bring out your students and families for pony rides and children's parties, as they are also options. Picnic or barbeque in our natural environment with shelter and shade...(more)
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ARION HORSE TREKKING - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury Trek along the lovely forest tracks in a safe and peaceful environment with the team at Arion Horse Trekking. Treks include the majestic and mighty Waimakariri River for some stunning views of the mountains and Canterbury plains and cross the many braided streams when nature permits...(more)
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BIKE IT NOW! - Central OtagoLocation: Canterbury - Twizel Bike It Now! offers a great range of tour packages that will get you out there and cycling the trails in Central Otago and beyond. Otago Central Rail Trail, Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold, Alps2Ocean, Queenstown Trail and Wanaka Trails...(more)
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BLACK CAT CRUISES - AkaroaLocation: Canterbury Home to the rare, playful Hector's Dolphin is the beautiful harbour of Akaroa, near Christchurch. Come on our two-hour nature cruise where we guarantee you will see dolphins or join us another day for FREE, you will also see fur seals, penguins and marine birdlife. Swimming with dolphins is available in Akaroa Harbour. Winner of the Supreme Tourism Award 2003/4...(more) |
BROKEN RIVER SKI AREA - CanterburyLocation: Canterbury - Arthurs Pass Broken River Ski Area is described as a "hidden gem" that offers fantastic off-piste terrain for adventurous low-intermediate to expert skiers and boarders. The on-mountain DBB accommodation is just 15 minutes walk from the ski tow. The open powder bowls and steep chutes, stunning scenery and authentic, uncrowded, welcoming atmosphere make for a memorable experience...(more)
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CADDYSHACK MINI GOLF - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury Welcome to CaddyShack, Christchurch's most exciting indoor mini golf experience. CaddyShack is located in an indoor, all-weather venue in Woolston. Each of our 18 holes incorporates a different theme and offers different skill challenges and fun. CaddyShack Christchurch is the ultimate mini golf experience. Practice your crazy golf...(more)
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CHIPMUNKS PLAYLAND AND CAFE - Papanui, ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury The aim of Chipmunks' Playland and cafe is to make sure the kids have fun in our superior playlands and playgrounds, which offer the latest, safest and best play equipment available in New Zealand. For all the parents out there - relax over a coffee in Charlie's Cafe while the kids have fun at our Cranford St venue...(more)
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CHRISTCHURCH ATTRACTIONS - Avon River PuntingLocation: Canterbury Punting on the Avon is one of the iconic tourist attractions in Christchurch. Glide along the peaceful Avon River in Christchurch, summer or winter, wrapped in luxury as a skilled boatperson propels you through a romantic wonderland. "Welcome aboard," says your punter. We supply blankets, umbrellas and even hot water bottles, so you feel snug if it gets chilly...(more)
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CHRISTCHURCH ATTRACTIONS - GondolaLocation: Canterbury Only 15 minutes from the central city, take a ride to the summit of the Port Hills, 500 metres above sea level. It's a "top" experience! Offering spectacular 360-degree views of Christchurch City, Lyttelton Harbour, Southern Alps and Canterbury Plains. Set atop the Gondola Summit Station, the Red Rock Cafe offers tasty snacks, light meals and beverages...(more)
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DARK SKY PROJECT – Takapō (Tekapo)Location: Canterbury - Lake Tekapo At Dark Sky Project, formerly Earth & Sky, we connect manuhiri (visitors) to our night skies, igniting a lifelong passion for dark sky preservation and what lies above. Our expert guides and astrophotographers share the science and stories of the southern skies at a range of locations including the world-renowned Mt John Observatory...(more)
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DISCOVERY JET - CanterburyLocation: Rakaia Gorge Thrill and scenic photographic jet boat rides, 360-degree spins, salmon and trout fishing, fly and spin casting, helicopter rafting/jet boat combos and more. Our professional team can tailor your ultimate adventure, one hour from Christchurch at the base of Mt Hutt ski field. Enjoy a piece of paradise in Canterbury High Country. Individuals to larger corporate groups, operating year round...(more)
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DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER - KaikouraLocation: Canterbury - Kaikoura Go dolphin watching and swimming in Kaikoura. Get wonderful views of the spectacular and acrobatic dusky dolphins from one of our boats. See the dolphins in their natural environment with the option to swim amongst these friendly, playful creatures. Swimming with the dolphins is an experience of a lifetime...(more) |
FARMYARD HOLIDAY PARK - GeraldineLocation: Canterbury - Geraldine Our privately owned holiday park in Canterbury offers the ultimate farmstay experience for everyone including campervans. Located on 17 hectares of tranquil rural countryside, 5 minutes from Geraldine and 2 hours from Christchurch. Unique hands on farmyard experience for campers. Something for everybody, tent sites, powered sites, onsite vans, two-bedroom cabins. Also fully self-contained one-room studios and family cottages...(more)
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FERRYMEAD GOLF - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury Ferrymead Golf offers a range of enticing options for a fun family activity. Whether it be during the weekend, after school or the school holidays, Ferrymead Golf is your premier entertainment centre. 3 18-hole mini-golf courses, inside or outside, including recently opened 'Grasslands', a real grass outdoor course, plus paintball and many childrens party options...(more)
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FERRYMEAD HERITAGE PARK - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury Ferrymead Heritage Park takes you back into New Zealand's past. Visit the Edwardian Township complete with houses, school classroom, church, picture theatre, jail, railway station, trains, post office, printers, tobacconist, general store, lawyer’s office and more. View the fascinating array of museum and heritage collections. Close to the Port Hills, Sumner, Redcliffs, Heathcote Valley and the port of Lyttleton...(more)
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GEM ALPACA FARM TOURS - Fairlie, CanterburyLocation: Canterbury - Fairlie Farm tours closed due to Covid for winter excluding school holidays. Here at Gem Alpacas in Fairlie we offer farm tours to travellers. Spend a relaxing hour with us and over 70 alpaca on our farm. We are experienced alpaca breeders of 19 years. You will be able to feed, touch and get great photos with our alpaca & llama...(more) |
HANMER LLAMAS - Hanmer SpringsLocation: Canterbury - Hanmer Springs Experience natural hot springs, alpine lakes and remote fishing camps amidst the spectacular back country or take a gentle stroll around the scenic surrounds of Hanmer Springs…our gentle llamas will carry everything from a picnic to a fully stocked camp making it possible for everyone. Our guided one day to multi day llama treks open up a world of possibilities...(more)
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HANMER SPRINGS ATTRACTIONS - Hanmer SpringsLocation: Canterbury - Hanmer Springs Hanmer Springs Attractions is a one-stop adventure shop, situated on the main road into Hanmer Springs overlooking the river and ferry bridge. In fact something for everybody: Bungy jumping, Jetboating, River rafting, Quad biking, Canoes, Kids quads, Paintball, Claybird shooting - All combined with a cafe offering light refreshments and a souvenir gift shop overlooking river...(more) |
HANMER SPRINGS THERMAL POOLS & SPA - North CanterburyLocation: Canterbury - Hanmer Springs Since 1859 the Hanmer Springs thermal pools have attracted visitors seeking to relax, unwind and ease their aches and pains in the warm, soothing mineral waters. Only an 90 miutes from Christchurch, the mineral springs are in the heart of the Alpine Village of Hanmer Springs. The complex also features a stunning new health and beauty spa...(more) |
KAIKOURA FISHING TOURS - KaikouraLocation: Canterbury - Kaikoura Kaikoura Fishing Tours offer Crayfish and Fishing Charters with Captain Tomo. One hour to full day trips are available. Complete Penn gear supplied and toilet and cooking facilities available onboard. Diving and scenic trips also available. We're eco-friendly and only take what we need. Your catch is filleted and bagged ready for the pan or if preferred, catch and release...(more)
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KAIKOURA KAYAKS - KaikouraLocation: Canterbury - Kaikoura The Kaikoura coastline is home to an abundance of marine life, including dolphins and seals, and sea birds. There is truly no better way to explore this fascinating environment than to paddle your own sea kayak on a safe, guided tour with us. No experience or swimming ability necessary to participate on these Kaikoura kayak tours...(more) |
KAIKOURA LLAMA TREKKING - KaikouraLocation: Canterbury - Kaikoura Kaikoura Llama Trekking includes spectacular views of the Kaikoura mountain ranges, North Island, and Kaikoura peninsular. The full-day trek is a high country trek on private land, and the half-day trek includes a coastal trek along the Kaikoura Bay, a visit to Fyffe House, peninsular seal colony and a free picnic with hot/cold drinks and homemade cake!..(more)
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KIDZ GO - New ZealandLocation: Canterbury The only dedicated family travel webguide to New Zealand, Kidz Go offers information for families visiting Christchurch and Canterbury. Family friendly accommodation, dining and activities, birthday party ideas, day trips, child-minding, skiing with kids and more. Check our Web site also for family information in other New Zealand regions...(more) |
MARUIA HOT SPRINGS - Lewis Pass, South IslandLocation: Canterbury - Hanmer Springs Maruia Hot Springs is an award-winning natural hot spring, day spa and wellness destination tucked among snow-capped Southern Alps on the picturesque Lewis Pass National Reserve. Instantly feel connected to the mountainous landscape and nature surrounding you whilst relaxing in natural geothermal mineral pools, nourish your soul with organic food, relax your body & mind in our daily wellness classes...(more)
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MEGA AIR TRAMPOLINE ARENA - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury MegaAir is New Zealand's largest and most fantastic indoor trampoline park. It's a fun and safe environment where soft landings are guaranteed. If jumping off walls, flying through the air, flipping, bouncing and leaping, sounds like fun to you you'll love MegaAir. It brings wall-to-wall fun for all ages, fitness levels, and skills. Dodgeball also on-site...(more)
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ORANA WILDLIFE PARK - ChristchurchLocation: Canterbury Experience our up close animal encounters at NZ's only open-range zoo. Hand-feed giraffe, meet rhino 'face-to-face', wander through native-bird aviaries and travel through our lion reserve (costs & conditions apply). Extensive native collection features Kiwi, Tuatara and range of endangered birds and reptiles. Open-range zoo situated in Christchurch. Scheduled feeds daily. NZ's only gorillas & the country's only orang-utans too...(more)
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POHATU PENGUINS - Akaroa, Banks PeninsulaLocation: Canterbury Pohatu - the largest little penguin colony on mainland New Zealand. Visit this remote and beautiful area, meet the local experts and learn of conservation and day-to-day life of white-flippered penguins within the large Pohatu Colony by 4WD safari. Sea kayaking safaris give wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities and allow the adventurous to explore New Zealand's stunning coastline...(more)
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SKI NEW ZEALAND - New ZealandLocation: Canterbury - Methven Start your journey towards the ultimate New Zealand ski holiday. At Ski New Zealand we take pride in designing custom winter holidays across New Zealand's North and South Island ski resorts. We will do all the planning, booking and organizing, leaving you to enjoy your holiday completely stress-free! Get in touch to book your tailor-made..(more)
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SOUTH CANTERBURY MUSEUM - TimaruLocation: Canterbury - Timaru The South Canterbury Museum has a focus on the natural heritage and history of the South Canterbury region of New Zealand - land, life and people. We collect specimens, artifacts, images, documents and information that can be used to explore the region's heritage. Everyone is welcome to enjoy Timaru and South Canterbury's history...(more)
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TEKAPO SPRINGS - Lake TekapoLocation: Canterbury - Lake Tekapo Relax in our three hot pools or chill out in our cooler pools in our aqua play area. Enjoy a facial or massage at the day spa then refuel at our Altitude 720 café & bar. Try ice skating or snow tubing over winter! Experience Tekapo Springs. Just the perfect mix of relaxation and recreation in beautiful Lake Tekapo!..(more)
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TEKAPO STAR GAZING - TekapoLocation: Canterbury - Lake Tekapo The only guided hot pools and stargazing tour in New Zealand! Soak in the stars with Tekapo Star Gazing, and soak in the hot pools. Learn about the incredible darksky reserve with high-powered telescopes and unique fusion of astronomy and storytelling. Slip into a 38°C hotpool. Enjoy the amazing Southern skies! Free Tekapo shuttle, towels and hot drinks included...(more) |
