No trip to New Zealand is complete without visiting the incredible mountains in Canterbury. This is alpine country, with huge snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, some of the best star gazing in the world and jaw-dropping views around every corner. Aoraki/Mount Cook is one of our favourite places in the world, and is always the first stop on any of our trips to New Zealand.

Quick Summary

Canterbury travel guide
  • Top Tip: Give yourself plenty of time in the mountains, as the weather is changeable. It’s pretty common for Aoraki/Mount Cook to disappear for days on end.

  • When to go: Christchurch and the lowlands are mild in the winter and warm in the summer. Winter is a great time to see seal pups in Kaikoura, but summer brings the potential for orcas.

    The mountains can see snow even in the summer (we faced a blizzard trying to get to Mueller Hut in December). We loved winter in the mountains, but we were lucky with relatively mild conditions. Summer is the more reliable time to visit.

    • Peak Season: December - March.

    • Off Season: June - September.


The Best of Christchurch & Canterbury