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Canterbury, New Zealand For adults

Our most recommended Canterbury, New Zealand For adults

Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

1. Akaroa: Dolphin Nature Cruise

Embark on a journey of discovery with the knowledgable crew and expert dolphin-spotting dogs, as they unveil the breathtaking highlights, enchanting magic, and captivating wonder that Akaroa Harbour has to offer. This company holds a Department of Conservation Marine Mammal Viewing Permit, meaning legally they are able to take guests to view dolphins & seals. Only two permitted companies operate all year round. Their luxurious low-lying catamaran provides a closer encounter with the rare Hector's dolphins. Along the way, you will also learn about the incredible history & see NZ fur seals, penguins, seabirds, sea caves & spectacular volcanic formations. Enjoy a complimentary drink of local NZ wine, beer, or juice, as well as delicious home baking. A 100% locally owned & operated family business, going back 7 generations to the area, who are committed to raising awareness with a portion of your fare going towards conservation efforts protecting the precious wildlife & marine environment. Please note for conservation reasons, they do not swim with the dolphins. To learn more please visit their website.

Mount Cook: Aoraki Panorama Scenic Helicopter flight

2. Mount Cook: Aoraki Panorama Scenic Helicopter flight

Take in views of the Aoraki/ Mt Cook National Park on this shared helicopter flight from Canterbury. Dive into sights like the Tasman Terminal Lake with the in flight commentary provided by your pilot. Stop to breathe in the crisp mountain air with a alpine landing. Meet your pilot at the Mount Cook Airport and listen to a short safety briefing. Expereince the thrill of taking off towards the Southern Alps. Admire views of the highest mountain in the country, Aoraki / Mt Cook.  Feel the excitement of landing in the mountains and capture pictures of sweeping views of snowy peaks. Fly over the icebergs of the Tasman Terminal Lake before returning to to Mount Cook Airport.

Ōpuke Thermal Pools: Adults-Only Entry with Swim Up Bar

3. Ōpuke Thermal Pools: Adults-Only Entry with Swim Up Bar

Enjoy a relaxing escape from it all at Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa with this entry ticket. Visit the newest wellness destination in Methven Canterbury, take in the tranquil surroundings of Methven, and marvel at the vistas of rolling hills. Enter Tranquility Pools to enjoy your premium adult-exclusive experience. Pick up your complimentary robe and towel and head to one of the solar-powered pools overlooking the Southern Alps. Indulge yourself at the swim-up bar and order a snack or a drink. If you wish, head to the Discovery Pools as well, which are open to families.

Franz Josef: Scenic Glacier Flight Tour with Snow Landing

4. Franz Josef: Scenic Glacier Flight Tour with Snow Landing

Take off from Franz Josef for an incredible adventure by helicopter to observe the epic glaciers. Enjoy picturesque bird's-eye views from the sky as your pilot points out the mountainous terrain. Feel the adrenaline and chill in the air as you land on the glacier and walk through the snow. Make your way to the supplier's office to meet your guide and group for the day. Go over a brief introduction before climbing into the helicopter and watching the ground disappear beneath you. Sit back and relax, enjoying the view as the city below turns into the wilderness and a horizon of the Southern Alps. Reach the glaciers and look down at the breathtaking ice formations on these giant shifting frozen islands. Come closer and closer as your helicopter touches down on the ice and take the chance to walk on the glacial snow. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and take some great photos before flying back to base.

Mount Cook: 3-Hour Tasman Glacier Helicopter Ride and Hike

5. Mount Cook: 3-Hour Tasman Glacier Helicopter Ride and Hike

Enjoy a tour that will acquaint you with New Zealand’s biggest glacier and provide you with spectacular helicopter views of the country’s largest mountain, Aoraki or Mount Cook. To start your tour you will fly to your drop-off point on a remote part of the glacier. During your tour, explore amazing ice formations, following your guide as they cut steps in the glacier. Complete your trip with another spectacular scenic flight back to the base of the mountain. Every journey is unique because the glacier is everchanging. Your experienced guides are always finding something new and interesting to show you. Spend up to 2 hours on the ice, weather permitting.

Christchurch: Helicopter Winery Tour and Tastings

6. Christchurch: Helicopter Winery Tour and Tastings

Make a grand entrance by helicopter, landing between the vines to indulge your senses at the three unique wineries of North Canterbury. Your wineries may include George Road Wines, Greystone Vineyard, Black Estate, Waipara Hills Winery, Waipara Springs, Bone Line, and Pegasus Bay. Enjoy tasting their distinctive flavors and award-winning blends. George Road Wines produce Syrah, Pinot Gris, and Rosé wines.  Greystone is a certified organic-owned and operated vineyard. You will taste their special releases, aged wines, and other treats only available at our cellar door.  Black State is a flavorsome experience consisting of 3 North Canterbury organic wineries and restaurant that delivers delicious organic and spray-free cuisine.  Waipara Hills Winery has a fine reputation for crafting rich aromatics with vibrant, complex flavors. Experience the best wines of the region on a 4-hour tour. 

From Christchurch: Helicopter Flight to Akaroa

7. From Christchurch: Helicopter Flight to Akaroa

Embark on a helicopter flight from Christchurch that follows the spectacular rugged coastline until you head inland to Akaroa harbour. The locals will tell you that no trip to the Christchurch area can be complete without a visit to Akaroa, the jewel in Banks Peninsula’s crown. On the way, discover the lush forests and grasslands that run down the hillsides to the azure water of the endless bays, fed by the Pacific Ocean itself. Upon arrival at Akaroa explore its excellent shops, cafés, and restaurants. Early French settlers gave Akaroa its heritage and distinct French feel that is reflected in the names of the streets and local bays.

Kaikoura: Scenic Helicopter Flight & Gin Distillery Tasting

8. Kaikoura: Scenic Helicopter Flight & Gin Distillery Tasting

Relax, sit back and enjoy a scenic flight around the Peninsula & Kaikōura Seaward mountain ranges taking in the breath taking views from above of the Pacific Ocean and Kaikōura coastline. Daniel our chief pilot and CEO will educate you on the surroundings and land you on Mt Fyffe. Here you can inhale the fresh mountain air and meet New Zealand’s newest gin maker Justine Schroder, owner of Mt Fyffe Distillery. Justine will pour her premium gin and tell you the story as to how the award-winning gin was launched. Mt Fyffe Distillery is a small boutique distillery set on the foothills of Mt Fyffe, Kaikōura. Using botanics sourced from around their family farm and the local environment, has led Justine to create two distinct blends of small batch artisan London dry gin; Woolshed Gin & Shearwater Gin This package also includes a complimentary 375ml bottle of Woolshed Gin or Shearwater Gin. 18+ only.

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What people are saying about Canterbury, New Zealand

Amazing experience. The staff and pilot at Southern Lakes Helicopters went out of their way to make this happen I use crutches to mobilise and needed a lot of help to climb in and out of the helicopter I was given this so cheerfully The commentary on the flight was great The whole trip unbelievable Can't recommend highly enough Thanks Southern Lakes Helicopters You are all wonderful

Would like to send my appreciation and big thank you to the tour guide Richard, his professional guide and caring behaviour make our trip wonderful

Great organization, great pilot who gave us an unforgettable experience. It's expensive, of course, but totally worth it.