Ch ristchu rch
written by Jack Fletcher
Your South Island basecamp THIS CITY IS JUST THE BEGINNING
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he tallest mountains and clearest night skies, whales and rugged wilderness, hot pools and cool cities, adventure and relaxation – your entire Aotearoa experience is waiting for you in the central South Island. It’s one of the most desirable destinations on the planet and on the bucket list of millions. At its heart is Ōtautahi Christchurch, the obvious basecamp for southern exploration and New Zealand’s newest city. For many Kiwis, Christchurch fell off their to-visit list 10 years ago. It’s time to leave those perceptions behind. The city has risen to become a modern and liveable destination that is itching to be rediscovered. Christchurch is a thriving urban hub of fine accommodation, boutique hospitality and open spaces. Modern infrastructure
and architectural gems sit alongside heritage buildings filled with stylish shops and fancy eateries. Bask in seaside hot pools, dine on the finest local fare – this city is just the beginning. Just up the road sits Kaikōura, famous throughout the generations for its proximity to wildlife, kai moana and mountains-tothe-sea views. Just inland from this coastal oasis is the Hurunui, boasting the must-see destination of Hanmer Springs and the North Canterbury Wine Region with its family-owned vineyards and fine eateries. Don’t miss your chance to explore these places while international tourists are not around. The West Coast is an underrated wonderland of rugged wilderness and unique townships, linked by some of the country’s most epic coastal roads. Head north to Karamea for significant limestone
Ziplining at Christchurch Adventure Park | credit: CAP
arches, to Greymouth for the region’s urban centre, and Hokitika for quirky West Coast culture. Further inland is Mackenzie, a vast area in the heart of the South Island and home to Aoraki Mt Cook, our tallest peak, and the bluest lakes in the country. It also boasts the world’s second largest Dark Sky Reserve, where visitors can check out a protected night sky unseen anywhere else in New Zealand. Right on Ōtautahi Christchurch’s doorstep is Mid-Canterbury, a place of award-winning skiing at Mt Hutt Ski Resort and Porters Alpine Resort, and the classic Kiwi town of Methven. Made up of vast plains and snow-capped mountains, Mid-Canterbury is also the ideal place to take to the sky in a hot air balloon. Selwyn has long given Cantabrians access to both the foothills and peaks of
