Mid and South Canterbury Travel Guide

This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the beautiful Mid and South Canterbury in New Zealand, highlighting the best places to visit, the must-try dishes, and the cultural customs, along with tips to travel around and stay safe.


Mid and South Canterbury Travel Guide

Introduction to Mid and South Canterbury

Mid and South Canterbury is a picturesque region in the eastern part of South Island, New Zealand. It is known for its breathtaking scenery, ranging from snow-capped mountains to lush green farmland. Mid and South Canterbury is home to some of the most sought-after tourist attractions, such as the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Lake Tekapo, and the Canterbury Museum. The region is accessible through Christchurch International Airport, which is conveniently located close to the cities of Timaru and Geraldine.

List of Places to Visit in Mid and South Canterbury

  • Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
  • Lake Tekapo
  • The Church of the Good Shepherd
  • The Rangitata River
  • The Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve
  • The Tekapo Springs
  • The Mackenzie Alpine Horse Trekking
  • The Timaru Botanic Gardens
  • The Geraldine Observatory
  • The Caroline Bay Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mid and South Canterbury is home to many historically significant attractions, such as the Canterbury Museum, which showcases the unique history of the region, including its Maori and European settlers.

Natural Attractions of Mid and South Canterbury: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mid and South Canterbury is known for its stunning natural attractions, including the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Lake Tekapo, and the Rangitata River, which provide opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve is home to a spectacular forest of native trees, providing a peaceful environment for those who wish to relax and explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mid and South Canterbury

Mid and South Canterbury boasts some of the most stunning hiking and biking trails in New Zealand. The Alps 2 Ocean Trail is a popular hiking and biking route, stretching from Mount Cook to Oamaru, with breathtaking scenery along the way. The Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve is also a popular spot for hiking trails of all levels.

Best Things to Do in Mid and South Canterbury: Activities and Tours

Mid and South Canterbury offers a range of activities and tours, such as the Mackenzie Alpine Horse Trekking, which provides a unique perspective of the region through guided horse rides in the stunning alpine environment. The Tekapo Springs offers a range of hot pools and spa treatments for those who wish to relax and unwind.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mid and South Canterbury

Day Activities
1 Explore Christchurch International Airport
2 Hike the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
3 Visit Lake Tekapo and The Church of the Good Shepherd
4 Go kayaking on the Rangitata River
5 Relax in the Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve
6 Explore the Timaru Botanic Gardens and the Geraldine Observatory
7 Relax at Caroline Bay Park before catching your return flight

Food and Drink Scene of Mid and South Canterbury

The Mid and South Canterbury region is home to some unique dishes that are must-try for any visitor. The region is known for its locally grown seafood, such as blue cod, mussels, and salmon, which can be enjoyed at the many local restaurants. The region is also home to many local wineries, producing some of the best wine in the country.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Blue cod fished from the nearby waters and served with locally grown vegetables
  • Whitebait fritters, made with locally caught whitebait
  • New Zealand lamb, which is famous for its quality

Local Beverages

  • Quality wine from local wineries
  • Craft beer from local breweries

Where to Stay in Mid and South Canterbury: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mid and South Canterbury has a range of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. The Mackenzie Country Hotel in Tekapo provides exceptional accommodation, along with stunning mountain views. The Giverny Heritage Inn in Geraldine also offers luxury accommodation, along with a beautiful garden and stunning mountain views.

What to Buy in Mid and South Canterbury: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • New Zealand wool products, such as blankets and scarves
  • Artwork and crafts made by local artists and artisans
  • Locally made beauty products, such as Manuka honey-based skincare products

Local Culture and Customs of Mid and South Canterbury

The local culture of Mid and South Canterbury is heavily influenced by both Maori and European settlers, making it a unique blend of both cultures. The local customs emphasize respect for the environment and the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.

Best Time to Visit Mid and South Canterbury

The best time to visit Mid and South Canterbury is during the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring, where the temperatures are comfortable, and the crowds are less. However, the summer months of December to February are also a popular time to visit, especially for those who enjoy warmer weather and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mid and South Canterbury

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Preserve the environment and follow the Leave No Trace principles while exploring the natural attractions

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the wildlife while exploring the natural attractions
  • Disrespect the cultural customs and traditions of the local population

Safety and Health

Safety in Mid and South Canterbury

Mid and South Canterbury is generally a safe region, with little crime reported. However, it is always advisable to take general precautions while traveling, such as locking doors and windows when leaving your accommodation and not leaving valuable items unattended in public places.

Health in Mid and South Canterbury

Mid and South Canterbury has excellent health facilities, and visitors are advised to have appropriate health insurance before traveling. It is also recommended to have any necessary vaccinations before traveling to New Zealand.

Getting to Mid and South Canterbury: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mid and South Canterbury is accessible through Christchurch International Airport, which has several international and domestic flights daily.

Airports Near Mid and South Canterbury

  • Christchurch International Airport

Bus Stations Near Mid and South Canterbury

  • Timaru Bus Station
  • Geraldine Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rentals are available at Christchurch International Airport

How to Get Around in Mid and South Canterbury

The best way to get around in Mid and South Canterbury is by car or bicycle, as public transportation is limited. Many car rental companies are available at Christchurch International Airport, offering a range of vehicles to suit all travelers’ needs.

Where to Go Next from Mid and South Canterbury: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers
  • The Otago Peninsula
  • The Abel Tasman National Park

Conclusion

Mid and South Canterbury is a unique and beautiful region, offering stunning natural attractions along with a blend of Maori and European culture. With its range of activities and tours, must-try dishes, and amazing scenery, it is a must-visit destination for any traveler visiting New Zealand.



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