Christchurch, Akaroa and Kaikoura
Best time to be there
Summer on the north island (December to February) is ideal for outdoor pursuits with mild temperatures and hours of sunshine. Venture to the numerous ski slopes and warm up close to a crackling fire during the winter months in June to August.
Fly to
Auckland (Air New Zealand, Air Tahiti Nui, daily)
flying time
26 hours, one stop
time difference
GMT +12 hours
Visas
Not required for UK passport holders
Health Requirements
Yellow Fever certificate if arriving from an endemic area
Itineraries
Classic New Zealand
Classic New Zealand highlights * Cruise Auckland harbour * Explore the town of Rotunda * Experience Maori culture on Mokoia Island Read more ...
Follow the Spirit of the Maori
Follow the Spirit of the Maori highlights * Helicopter excursion to White Island * Mokoia Island Read more ...
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In northern Canterbury are some of New Zealand's most famous experiences. At Kaikoura, rugged mountains drop to the ocean, where you can encounter marine wildlife from albatrosses to seals and whales, and feast on local delicacies such as crayfish.
Christchurch, the Garden city, was established in 1850 by English settlers and this heritage shows in the architecture of older buildings.Christchurch is the South Island's largest city. It's a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping and award-winning attractions. Some of its famous Gothic revival stone buildings were damaged in the Christchurch earthquake of 22 February 2011, but the city remains a worthwhile visitor destination and a great base for experiencing the diversity of the Canterbury region and the South Island beyond.
The quaint village of Akaroa - New Zealand's one and only French settlement - sits on the edge of Akaroa Harbour in an astonishingly beautiful landscape of rugged hills and sparkling water.
Suggested Christchurch, Akaroa and Kaikoura Accommodation
Claremont Country Estate
Claremont offers luxury lodge accommodation in spectacular countryside near Christchurch in Canterbury. Each room, including the guest bedrooms, is elegantly furnished with antiques...
Kincaid Lodge
Kincaid Lodge is situated in open green countryside with breathtaking views of the adjacent mountains and down to the Pacific Ocean. All rooms have private verandas and patios opening to a large garden.
Otahuna Lodge
Otahuna was built in 1895 for prominent Canterbury pioneer Sir Heaton Rhodes. An enduring testament to his love for the finer things in life, the homestead is considered one of the best examples...
The George Hotel
The George is a boutique hotel in the heart of the city. A member of 'Small Luxury Hotels of the World', the George has two chic and sophisticated award winning...
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Guest Testimonial
We very much appreciated the champagne to celebrate A&K's anniversary. Our guide Omar & driver Basil were both absolutely excellent throughout. Many thanks for making our trip to Jordan so enjoyable and for all the hard work that ensured our holiday ran so smoothly! 
- LJ, London
World Travel Awards
World Travel Awards
World's Leading Luxury Tour Operator 2011
A&K Philanthropy
Kiwi Encounter
Offers the opportunity to sponsor the hatching and raising of kiwi chicks and tour the facility that is helping to increase the numbers of this beloved and endangered icon.
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