Canterbury Scenic Drives

Canterbury's scenic drives are a road-tripper's dream, weaving through landscapes that shift from braided river plains and golden tussock hills to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps. This is New Zealand at its most epic, where every bend reveals a new vista—think turquoise lakes, ancient beech forests, and skies that stretch forever. The region's highways are more than just routes; they're experiences that reward those who take the time to stop, breathe, and soak it all in.

Highlights & What to See

• Arthur's Pass National Park: Drive over the Southern Alps via the dramatic Arthur's Pass, where waterfalls plunge beside the road and kea parrots cheekily inspect your car. Stop for short walks like the Devils Punchbowl track.
• Lake Tekapo & the Church of the Good Shepherd: This iconic lakeside church with a backdrop of turquoise water and snow-capped peaks is a photographer's paradise, especially at sunrise or during lupin season (Nov–Jan).
• Mount Cook Village & the Hooker Valley Track: From the highway, a detour to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offers jaw-dropping views and one of New Zealand's best day walks—the Hooker Valley Track, with swing bridges and glacier views.
• Banks Peninsula & Akaroa: A winding coastal drive from Christchurch leads to the French-influenced village of Akaroa, where you can cruise to see Hector's dolphins or explore lush reserves.
• Canterbury Plains & the Rakaia Gorge: The flat plains give way to the stunning Rakaia Gorge, where you can walk across the suspension bridge or try jet-boating on the braided river.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate Canterbury's scenic drives, allow at least 3–5 days for a loop from Christchurch. A classic itinerary: day one, drive to Arthur's Pass and back via the TranzAlpine train route; day two, head south to Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook (stay overnight); day three, explore the Mackenzie Country and drive to Akaroa via the coast. This pace lets you enjoy short walks, photo stops, and spontaneous detours without feeling rushed.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Christchurch: The gateway city, with its revitalised central city, punting on the Avon River, and the Canterbury Museum.
• Kaikōura: Famous for whale watching and the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, a 2–3 hour drive north of Christchurch.
• Hanmer Springs: A thermal resort town with hot pools, mountain biking, and bungy jumping, about 90 minutes north of Christchurch.
• West Coast Glaciers (Franz Josef & Fox): Cross the Southern Alps via Arthur's Pass or Haast Pass to reach the glaciers—a dramatic contrast to Canterbury's dry landscapes.
• Queenstown & Wanaka: Continue south from Mount Cook through the Lindis Pass to the adventure capital and its stunning lakeside neighbour.

Please check official sources for current details.