Canterbury holiday homes

Why visit Canterbury

• Stunning natural landscapes: Experience breathtaking scenery, from picturesque beaches to serene lakes and expansive parks.
• Outdoor adventures: Engage in a variety of activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
• Charming towns: Explore vibrant local communities in North and South Canterbury, showcasing unique culture and hospitality.
• Family-friendly experiences: Enjoy numerous attractions suitable for all ages, making it an ideal destination for families.
• Relaxing coastal stretches: Unwind along inviting coastlines, perfect for a peaceful day by the water.

Top attractions in Canterbury

Canterbury, New Zealand offers stunning scenery and a variety of outdoor experiences perfect for families and culture enthusiasts. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, serene lakes, and expansive parks, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or adventurous activities in the great outdoors, Canterbury has something for everyone to enjoy during their holiday.

• Aoraki / Mount Cook: Experience breathtaking scenery and exhilarating outdoor adventures in this national park, home to New Zealand's highest peak. Explore stunning alpine landscapes, hike scenic trails, and witness the majestic glaciers up close.
• Sumner Beach: Enjoy the laid-back beach vibes at Sumner Beach, known for its golden sands and inviting waves. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or taking a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastline.
• Lake Tekapo: Discover the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Ideal for romantic walks, photography, and stargazing under its dark skies, this lake offers a serene escape.

Things to do recommended for couples

Discover a romantic escape in Canterbury with a scenic ride on the Christchurch Gondola. Enjoy breathtaking views and a touch of adventure as you and your loved one embrace the outdoors and create unforgettable memories.

Things to do recommended for families

Families will love exploring the stunning Akaroa Harbour, where they can take a scenic cruise to spot dolphins. A visit to the Canterbury Museum offers fascinating exhibits, while the Christchurch Botanic Gardens invites relaxation and play in beautiful surroundings.

Things to do recommended for groups

Experience the thrill at Christchurch Adventure Park with its exhilarating zipline and ropes course, perfect for adventure seekers. Alternatively, enjoy the adrenaline rush of motor racing at Woodford Glen Speedway, where the excitement of competitive sports awaits your group.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Canterbury

If you're planning a trip with a group, family, pets, or considering extended stays, be sure to refine your search with the right priorities in mind. Here are some helpful booking tips for using Vrbo.

• Traveling to Canterbury with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you'll require, along with features like a complete kitchen or outdoor areas for group gatherings. Thankfully, you can easily refine your search for all these options and more on Vrbo.
• Traveling to Canterbury with young kids: Traveling with little ones can be demanding. You must prioritise their comfort and safety, along with age-appropriate facilities, like a private pool. It’s also wise to think about how close you are to family-friendly attractions.
• Taking your pets with you to Canterbury: For many families, a holiday isn't truly enjoyable without their furry companion by their side. If this resonates with you, take a look at Vrbo properties that welcome pets. Most of these pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting Canterbury: If you're after holiday rentals offering monthly deals, you've come to the right spot. By using the appropriate filters, you'll easily find and save on monthly stays. Don't forget to consider adding a parking space, a comfortable kitchen, or your own private pool to your search criteria.

Where to stay in Canterbury

Discover Canterbury's charm, from its scenic landscapes to its inviting coastal stretches. Enjoy a relaxing stay in the region, where friendly locals, family-friendly vibes, and romantic spots await. Whether exploring North Canterbury's vibrant towns or South Canterbury's serene beauty, you'll experience a warm, budget-friendly escape amidst breathtaking outdoor settings.

• Christchurch: Christchurch is a vibrant metropolis nestled in the heart of Canterbury. Known for its unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, visitors flock to this city for family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and dynamic city experiences. Explore the bustling shopping areas and enjoy top-notch entertainment at local arenas. For those who love the outdoors, Christchurch offers proximity to breathtaking beaches, scenic parks, and even ski fields for winter sports enthusiasts. With its rich cultural heritage and green spaces, Christchurch promises an engaging experience for all who visit.
• Hanmer Springs: Hanmer Springs is an idyllic suburb renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventure. Situated amidst the picturesque Canterbury landscape, it attracts travellers seeking relaxation and excitement alike. Visitors can indulge in luxurious body treatments at the famous hot springs, while thrill-seekers can take advantage of the nearby ski fields. The region is dotted with monuments and natural wonders, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and indulge in invigorating outdoor activities.
• Christchurch City Centre: Christchurch City Centre serves as the vibrant hub of the region, offering a blend of urban charm and outdoor spaces. Families and city explorers alike will find a wealth of activities, from diverse shopping malls to educational venues. The area boasts well-maintained urban parks and event conference venues, making it ideal for relaxation and social gatherings. Whether you're wandering through the lively streets or enjoying the serene parks, Christchurch City Centre is a delightful destination that embodies the spirit of Canterbury.

Best time to go to Canterbury

If you're planning a trip to Canterbury, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is January.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
February	61.5°F (16.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average
March	58.5°F (14.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High
April	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
May	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low
June	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
July	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average
August	45.5°F (7.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average
September	48.0°F (8.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High
October	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low
November	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High
December	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low

Booking with Vrbo is a breeze

If you want to stretch your travel budget further, consider keeping your dates flexible as prices can vary. Additionally, booking for a longer period often leads to significant savings. To find the perfect Vrbo property that suits your budget, simply use our filters to sort by price, location, and type of holiday rental.

Vrbo Trips: Planning as easy as it gets

Vrbo's clever Trip Board offers you a dedicated area to plan new adventures, pick up where you last left off, or review and arrange your travel plans. You can easily find properties you've saved or booked previously under Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To start using Trip Boards, simply visit: https://www.bookabach.co.nz/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

The charming city of Canterbury awaits you

Enjoy the museums and other features of Canterbury. Travellers to this romantic city praise the restaurants, gardens and shopping. Whether you're planning a family holiday, romantic stay or trip with friends, holiday rentals offer features like full kitchens and laundry facilities for a more convenient stay.

Activities and attractions in and around Canterbury

Are you looking for attractions to visit while you're in the area? Venture out of your holiday home and experience everything that Canterbury has to offer. Here are some of the major attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

• Margaret Mahy Playground (0.3 mi / 0.5 km)
• Christchurch Adventure Park (3.4 mi / 5.5 km)
• Port Hills (5.1 mi / 8.2 km)
• Clearwater Golf Club (6.1 mi / 9.7 km)
• Orana Wildlife Park (9.7 mi / 15.7 km)
• Wilding Park Tennis Center (1.7 mi / 2.7 km)

Exploring the gardens and other natural features in Canterbury

Whether you're an adventurous traveller or just want to appreciate the scenery, Canterbury is a great place to get out in nature. These are some of the area's most eye-catching sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

• Margaret Mahy Playground (0.3 mi / 0.5 km)
• Christchurch Botanic Gardens (0.8 mi / 1.3 km)
• Hagley Park (0.9 mi / 1.4 km)
• Mona Vale (1.5 mi / 2.4 km)
• Riccarton Park (4.3 mi / 6.9 km)
• Port Hills (5.1 mi / 8.2 km)

How to get to and around Canterbury

The nearest airport is in Christchurch International Airport (CHC), located 5.7 mi (9.2 km) from the city centre.

If you prefer to travel by train, Christchurch Railway Station, Rolleston Station and Rangiora Station are the main stations in the area.