South Canterbury is full of hidden gems beyond the city of Timaru, offering a mix of natural beauty, charming towns, and outdoor adventure. In Geraldine, visitors can browse local artisan shops, sample handmade cheese and chocolate, and visit the famous Giant Jersey. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring Peel Forest, with its scenic bush walks and towering kahikatea trees. The limestone landscapes at Elephant Rocks near Duntroon provide a unique photo opportunity and a glimpse into the region's ancient geology. For breathtaking high-country views, head towards the Mackenzie Basin, where you can take in the wide-open spaces around Lake Tekapo or hit the slopes at Mount Dobson during winter. South Canterbury's smaller towns and wild landscapes offer a relaxed and authentic New Zealand experience.
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is home to New Zealand's highest peak and offers dramatic alpine scenery, glaciers, and stunning hiking trails like the popular Hooker Valley Track. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for mountaineering, stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve, and scenic flights over the Southern Alps.
International Dark Sky Reserve
The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is one of the best places in the world to stargaze, offering crystal-clear night skies free from light pollution. Covering over 4,300 square kilometers, it's a haven for astronomers and night-sky lovers, with unforgettable views of the Milky Way, constellations, and even the Southern Lights on occasion.
Alps 2 Ocean Trail
The Alps 2 Ocean Trail is a breathtaking multi-day cycle trail that stretches over 300 kilometers from Aoraki/Mount Cook to the Pacific Ocean at Oamaru. It offers riders an unforgettable journey through some of New Zealand's most stunning and diverse landscapes, including glacial lakes, braided rivers, and rolling farmland.
Lake Tekapo
Visiting Lake Tekapo offers stunning turquoise waters framed by the Southern Alps, perfect for photography, stargazing, and lakeside relaxation. Highlights include the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and soaking in the hot pools with panoramic alpine views.
Geraldine
Visiting Geraldine offers a warm, small-town charm with a creative twist – it's known for its artisan shops, local produce, and vibrant arts scene. Surrounded by lush countryside, it's a great base for scenic walks, gallery browsing, and sampling handmade treats like cheese, chocolate, and preserves.
Peel Forest
Peel Forest is a lush native forest at the foothills of the Southern Alps, offering tranquil walking tracks through ancient kahikatea, totara, and mataī trees. It's a peaceful spot for nature lovers, with opportunities for birdwatching, short hikes, and more challenging climbs like the track to Little Mount Peel.
Elephant Rocks
The Elephant Rocks near Duntroon are a fascinating collection of large limestone formations scattered across a scenic paddock, resembling a natural sculpture park. This unique geological site is not only a great spot for photos and picnics but also gained fame as a filming location for The Chronicles of Narnia
Ski Areas
South Canterbury is home to several friendly and accessible ski areas, including Mount Dobson, Roundhill, and Fox Peak, each offering stunning alpine views and varied terrain for all skill levels. These ski fields are known for their relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere, making them ideal for families and those seeking a more laid-back snow experience.
What's on in South Canterbury
For a list of up-to-date activities in the South Canterbury area please visit the South Canterbury website.