Canterbury

Canterbury is New Zealand’s largest region with the Southern Alps on the western side and the Pacific Ocean to the east.  Its largest city is Christchurch. Canterbury’s economy is generated from; agriculture, industry, fishing, forestry, tourism and energy production. Canterbury has a dry climate which is great for grape growing around the Christchurch area.  A visit to Akaroa on Banks Peninsular is also a worthwhile days outing where you can experience how French culture has influenced the New Zealand culture. The Canterbury plains make up most of the horticultural land.  There are many beautiful lakes to the south of this region which is also very mountainous including New Zealand’s highest mountain : Mt Cook. If you enjoy mountaineering or just want to witness the breathtaking views then a trip to Aoraki/Mt Cook national park is for you.  Hammer Springs has geothermal hot springs as well as many other tourist and adventure activities. A drive to the west coast over Arthurs pass through the Southern Alps is also not to be missed as the variety and contrast of beautiful scenery is breathtaking.