Visit South Canterbury
What to do?
Planning your visit to South Canterbury and looking for activities and things to do while you are here? Take a look below at our regions highlights.
Highlights of the Timaru District
The South Island’s best little seaside city (in our humble opinion). In Timaru city, you can enjoy easy scenic walks, through picturesque Caroline Bay and along nearby coastal tracks, or wander through our CBD to take in the Edwardian architecture and discover the locally owned speciality boutiques. We’re also home to the most significant collection of ancient Māori rock art in New Zealand. Head inland to across the rolling farmlands of Temuka and Pleasant Point enjoying the heritage of our region featuring the likes of Temuka Pottery and pioneering aviator, Richard Pearse or continue through to the boutique village of Geraldine for artisan culinary delights, art galleries, native bush walks and more!
Take a look at welovetimaru.nz for itineraries and activities to do in Timaru.
Take a look at welovetimaru.nz for itineraries and activities to do in Timaru.
Highlights of Mackenzie
Discover NZ’s highest mountains, longest glaciers, and largest dark sky reserve. The Mackenzie is an inter-montane basin – an elevated plateau ringed by mountains and recognizable for its unique tri-colour palette: turquoise lakes, white snow-capped mountains and golden grasslands.
Home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo, Fairlie and Twizel – the area is a compelling destination for a multi-day adventure. Embark on a scenic flight over glaciers (or a boat ride amongst icebergs), stargaze under pristine night skies, savour renowned local cuisine, pedal some of the world-famous Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, indulge in legendary high-country hospitality, and much more!
Visit mackenzienz.com for more information.
Home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo, Fairlie and Twizel – the area is a compelling destination for a multi-day adventure. Embark on a scenic flight over glaciers (or a boat ride amongst icebergs), stargaze under pristine night skies, savour renowned local cuisine, pedal some of the world-famous Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, indulge in legendary high-country hospitality, and much more!
Visit mackenzienz.com for more information.
Top 5 things to do in Mackenzie
1. Highest mountain
Visit Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, home to NZ’s highest mountain! Choose from plenty of walking trails to suit all abilities or enjoy a scenic flight amongst the mountains.
3. Largest Dark Sky Reserve
Stargaze in a protected 4,367sq km dark sky reserve. There are many options for a stargazing experience in the Mackenzie, including a working observatory, soaking in hot pools, wine cellar, farm tours, and many more!
5. Longest cycle trail
Cycle some of NZ’s longest cycle trail, the epic 315km Alps 2 Ocean. Suitable for all ages, the nine-section bike trail is an easy to intermediate grade and takes around 4 – 6 days for the entire ride. Sections can easily be ridden as a day trip as well.
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2. Largest glacier
Explore NZ’s largest glacier, the Haupapa/Tasman Glacier. Heli-hike, boat tours amongst icebergs, skiing on the glacier – there are so many ways to experience it!
4. Ski the Mackenzie Three
Take in the stunning surroundings and skip the lift queues. The Mackenzie boasts three quintessentially Kiwi ski fields all within driving distance of each other. Spectacular scenery, spacious runs and laid back, family-friendly vibes create the ultimate snow holiday.
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Highlights of Waimate
Discover the breathtaking landscapes, vast outdoor expanses, and charming small towns nestled in the rural heartland of New Zealand's Waimate District. Immerse yourself in stunning walking and biking trails, exceptional fishing and hunting opportunities, and delightful local shops.
Take a look at waimate.org.nz for things to do in Waimate.
Take a look at waimate.org.nz for things to do in Waimate.
