What’s on in New Zealand
Christchurch and Mid Canterbury
Christchurch, and the wider Canterbury region is an area that has taken back control from Mother Nature and is blooming, as it grows into a stunning renewed destination for visitors far and wide. Traditionally a firm favourite location for both kiwis and international visitors alike, a popularity that is warranted by the ever growing list of amazing places to visit and experience whilst there.
Markets galore
Who doesn’t love a great market – especially over the warmer months. Check out the Arts Centre markets for beautiful creations straight from the artists themselves, the myriad of local farmers markets or you are after food, fun and a family atmosphere, then the Ferrymead Night Markets are the place to be – there is even a train ride for the adults and kids.
New Zealand Cup and Show Week
This is the South Island’s premier spring festival, full of fun, glamour and excitement. Whether you are into the horse racing and the trackside fun of fashion in the field, or the celebrations of local agricultural innovations, the festivities of New Zealand Cup and Show Week take over the region and sprinkle a great atmosphere through the city. Plus, with lots of fantastic food and beverages on offer and plenty of events surrounding it all, it is one to pencil in the calendar and plan ahead for!
Something fishy?
Renowned as the Salmon capital of New Zealand, Rakaia is an easy 40-minute drive from Christchurch. Welcoming you with what could possibly be the world’s largest salmon sculpture – the fiberglass fish stands at a whopping 12-metres tall and definitely confirms you have reached your destination! Those with a penchant for fishing love visiting here – and Rakaia River Holiday Park is ideal location to stay. As its name would suggest, it is based just minutes from the river and you can easily pop out for a quiet afternoon of fishing with good chances of nabbing a beautiful salmon or any one of the other breeds of fish who call the river their home. The Rakaia River is also where you will find the largest bridge in the Southern Hemisphere – built in 1939, the bridge spans the 1.8km width of the river and is a great spot for those who love capturing landscapes on film.
Historic beauty
Christchurch is home to some of the most beautiful historic buildings in the county. Despite many being destroyed in the 2011 earthquake, many still stand proudly throughout the city. The Canterbury Museum is an example of these buildings and home to permanent and changing exhibitions. It’s well worth a visit.
Best Holiday Park spots to stay in Christchurch and Mid Canterbury
Rakaia River Holiday Park is a great spot for anglers and anyone travelling the mid-Canterbury region. Its location makes it great for those wanting to engage with nature, while the holiday park itself offers a range of accommodation options from motel rooms, to powered and tent sites and even a fisherman’s cottage. Just a short 20-minute drive to Ashburton, and a few minutes further to the Mt Hutt ski fields makes this an ideal location for anyone wanting to create a base while travelling around the wider region.
If you’re looking for a base closer to the city then North and South Holiday Park offers the perfect range of accommodation and is nice and close to the Christchurch Airport. Whether it’s a large group, a family or individuals, this holiday park has everything you need for a great stay in the Garden City. Pitch your tent, hook up your caravan, book into a family unit, or a tourist cabin. And create your own great place to stay while discovering the city and wider region.
For more information on Christchurch and Mid Canterbury visit ChristchurchNZ
Photo Credits: North South Holiday Park & Rakaia River Holiday Park