Canterbury
Other interesting places to visit in the Canterbury region are Mt Cook National Park, the charming settlement of Akaroa, Arthur's Pass National Park, Port Hills and Banks Peninsula, the Lewis Pass region and Lake Tekapo. The region has a blend of rural and rugged landscape that is most depicted as the real New Zealand to overseas travellers. While staying with us, we are happy to help you plan further travels.
West Coast
The West Coast of the Southern Alps is an adventure and outdoor paradise. The region is populated by only 31,000 people, known to New Zealanders as 'Coasters', is synonymous with friendly hospitality. In this stunning region, you can enjoy beach, forest and glacier walks, action activities, scenic flights, mountain biking, horse treks, fishing, gold panning, to name but a few things to see and do. If you are visiting Greymouth, we highly recommend
The Ashley Hotel for your accommodation needs.
Marlborough
The first sights of the South Island for many visitors, especially those who travel on the ferry, are the convoluted waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. This peaceful area is a haven for boating, walking and relaxing. There are many bays, islands, coves and waterways. The best way to get around the sounds is by boat, but the road system has been extended in recent years.
Kaikoura
Kaikoura is located half way between Christchurch and Picton, in the north east corner of the South Island. Kaikoura is a very special place as you can see whales, dolphins, seals, albatross, penguins and many species of pelagic ocean birds in just a single day. In the Maori language, Kaikoura means 'to eat crayfish', so if you travel to Kaikoura, make sure you visit one of the local restaurants and enjoy this very special treat.
Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs is a beautiful alpine village just waiting to be discovered. This very special place, renowned for the freshness of the air and the Thermal Pools & Spa, can be found at just 90 minutes drive north of Christchurch. Everyone will find something to suit in Hanmer Springs, with such beautiful scenery surrounded by mountains. At 380m above sea level, the village is often blanketed with snow in winter, transforming it into a true winter wonderland.
Queenstown
The South Island's premier visitor destination has to be Queenstown, a township that rarely sleeps. Expect rugged mountains, majestic lakes, and just a huge diversity of things to see and do. You'll be struggling to fit everything in. Queenstown also has a permanent buzz downtown where you'll find a lively bar scene with wine bars, live jazz, top DJ's, summer nights in a garden bar or aprs ski by a log fire. And... the shopping in Queenstown is second to none.
