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Top Places: Christchurch, Banks Peninsula & Akaroa, Mt Cook, Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs, Arthur's Pass.
Canterbury is a large plain that stretches from the coast on the east, to the Southern
Alps to the west. The city of Christchurch is situated on the plains and is
the biggest city in the region and South Island, and comes in as the third
biggest city in New Zealand.
Christchurch
is reputably the most English looking city outside of England and the city
certainly deserves this title. This city has many fine examples of old English
buildings including the Cathedral in the main square. The main river that
winds its way through the city and suburbs, just happens to be called the
Avon. The climate is similar to England too, with four pronounced seasons
and the vegetation includes trees that were brought over from England including
Weeping Willows, Oak and Chestnut trees. Houses are surrounded by hedges and
many well kept gardens including some fine rose gardens, which is the reason,
Christchurch has been chosen for the International Garden City Award.
To
the east of the city is Banks Peninsula which is a scenic remote area with
a very irregular coastline that twists and turns to create many bays and inlets.
There are many vantage points which offer exceptionally good views of this
area, so bring a camera if you plan on visiting. 
The
biggest town here is Lyttleton which is the main port for Christchurch and
is connected to this city by a tunnel. You can also drive over the scenic
Port Hills to get to Lyttleton. Further east is the town of Akaroa which was
settled by the French, consequently the street names are a little hard to
pronounce for a non French speaking person.
Christchurch's
close proximity to the Southern Alps to the west means that there is some
great skiing close by. Two major ski fields, Mt Hutt and Porter Heights are
both accessible within a day trip.
Other towns in Canterbury
include Timaru, Methven and Kaikoura. Kaikoura is one of the few places in
the world where whales can be seen all year round. Dolphins and seals are
also present.
Original versions of our photos can be purchased & web versions can be shared subject to conditions.