The Canterbury region includes a large central portion of the east coast of the South Island, centered on the city of Christchurch. The Christchurch hinterland of highly productive farmlands extends from the silvery beaches of the east coast to the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps on the western horizon. The east-central Canterbury Plains form the largest lowland area in the country. To the south are the hills and plains of the Otago Plateau, which is bordered on the west by the wilderness of Fiordland National Park.

Christchurch city is located midway down the east coast of the South Island, just north of Banks Peninsula. As the South Island`s largest city and main international gateway it is a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping, award-winning attractions and a host of activities. Its Gothic revival cathedral, gray-stone nineteenth century buildings, tree-lined avenues and extensive leafy parks have preserved the grace and charm of an earlier era. Dunedin, is the South Island`s second-largest city and the commercial center for the Otago region. Its name is the old Gaelic one for Edinburgh - appropriate since Scottish Presbyterians established the city. It is a gracious city whose numerous grand 19th century and Edwardian buildings are unrivalled anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere.

A natural attraction on the Otago Peninsula is the abundant wildlife. Nature and wildlife excursions allow for viewing fur seals, endangered yellow-eyed penguin, cormorants and albatross. The island offers mountains and glaciers as well as gentle plains. Whether you`re hiking in Fiordland National Park or riding a tram through a bustling city, beauty, history and culture will surround you. Meet the heart of the country’s people and cultures amidst the backdrop of breathtaking scenery.