Christchurch & Canterbury
Gateway
to the South
From the silvery beaches of the coast to the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps, the Canterbury landscape offers some of the most spectacular scenery. The highest point of the region is the highest point of New Zealand. The spectacular Aoraki Mount Cook stands at 3,754 metres. At the other end of the scale, the submarine trenches off the coast of Kaikoura are thousands of metres deep, providing an ideal environment for the whales, dolphins and seals that live there permanently. Between the mountains and the sea, the vast plains are patchworked with the patterns of rural life.
Jump to the region you wish to explore by clicking below.
The Canterbury region also incorporates the delightful alpine spa resort of Hanmer Springs; the quaint French inspired seaside village of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula; Timaru with its heritage architecture and stunning views over Caroline Bay; the turquoise gemstone hue of Lake Tekapo and the clearest starry skies and highest mountains at the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; the high-country area and ski fields near Methven and the alpine region in the Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Gateway to the South
From the silvery beaches of the coast to the jagged peaks of the Southern Alps, the Canterbury landscape offers some of the most spectacular scenery. The highest point of the region is the highest point of New Zealand. The spectacular Aoraki Mount Cook stands at 3,754 metres.
At the other end of the scale, the submarine trenches off the coast of Kaikoura are thousands of metres deep, providing an ideal environment for the whales, dolphins and seals that live there permanently. Between the mountains and the sea, the vast plains are patchworked with the patterns of rural life.
Jump to the region you wish to explore by clicking below.
The Canterbury region also incorporates the delightful alpine spa resort of Hanmer Springs; the quaint French inspired seaside village of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula; Timaru with its heritage architecture and stunning views over Caroline Bay; the turquoise gemstone hue of Lake Tekapo and the clearest starry skies and highest mountains at the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; the high-country area and ski fields near Methven and the alpine region in the Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Christchurch
~ OUR GARDEN CITY ~
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand, and one of the world’s most unique destinations. Bordered by the Port Hills and the Pacific Ocean, it is situated on the Canterbury Plains with the Southern Alps as a majestic backdrop, allowing for a huge array of experiences all within just a few hours’ drive. Known traditionally as “The Garden City”, the serene Avon River flows through the centre of the city (its banks now largely forming an urban park), and through the award-winning Christchurch Botanic Gardens. The gardens feature one of the finest collections of exotic and native plants found in New Zealand, and are home to one of Christchurch’s most iconic activities, Punting on the Avon.
More recently however, Christchurch has been rebuilding and revitalizing itself following the Canterbury Earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, and making way for some of the most innovative and creative projects in the world. With a huge emphasis on sustainable and environmental issues, Christchurch is embracing its new future, and is excited about the possibilities of having a chance to reinvent itself with modern buildings and bright urban events. This is a chance to visit a city on the brink of reimagining itself with world class technology and innovation alongside history and heritage.
Christchurch is also known for great dining, with a huge choice in cuisine around the city. Local restaurateurs are spoiled for choice with such high-quality local wines, and produce, leading to ever- changing seasonal menus using local and fresh ingredients.
- Walk through the Botanic Gardens
- Visit the International Antarctic Centre
- Ride on the tram
- Join a street art tour
- Take a punt on the Avon River
- Drive up to the Port Hills to admire the view over the city, Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps
- Enjoy lunch and wine-tasting at one of the nearby wineries
- Experience one of the world’s greatest train journeys aboard the TranzAlpine train which crosses the South Island from Christchurch to Greymouth on the West Coast
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in the Christchurch and Canterbury region, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
The George Hotel, Christchurch
This luxury boutique hotel is renowned for offering a personalised stay with attentive staff and two award-winning restaurants. It is located in the heart of the city overlooking Hagley Park and the Avon River, and is just a short walk from the cultural precinct, central city shopping and key attractions.
Premium Executive Room
These 30m2 rooms are located on all levels, and some have views of the private garden. They have either a King or two Double beds and come with fluffy bathrobes, luxury bathroom amenities, evening turn down service, LED TV, digital movie system, in room safes and free WiFi.
Junior Suites
With 44m2, these suites have a larger living and bathroom area. They are situated on the 4th floor with views of Park Terrace/Hagley Park and have Californian King beds (which can be split into 2 x King singles) and will accommodate a rollaway bed if required. All rooms have fluffy bathrobes, luxury bathroom amenities, evening turn down service, LED TV, digital movie system, in room safes and free WiFi.
Park Suites
Located on levels two, three and four, these 60m2 suites have stunning views from picture windows into Hagley Park. They have a Californian King bed which can be split into two King singles, stereo system and DVD player, spa bath, double shower, fluffy bathrobes, selection of quality magazines, evening turn down service with George bear, slippers and mineral water, as well as the standard luxury bathroom amenities, LED TV, digital movie system, in room safes and free WiFi.
Residence Three Bedroom Suite
The Residence is a three-bedroom character villa offering exclusive, luxury accommodation adjacent to the main hotel. It was built in the 1950’s and has been restored to the highest standards and offers the best of both worlds – access to full hotel services, but the privacy and exclusiveness of a private villa overlooking The George’s private hotel gardens. The Residence is available in several configurations, with the three en-suite bedrooms available individually or combined as either a one-bedroom suite, a two-bedroom suite with one shared living room, or exclusive use of the entire three-bedroom villa. The exclusive option includes the exclusive use of the ground-floor kitchen, dining room and library as well as access to the hotel gardens.
Crowne Plaza Christchurch
Overlooking Victoria Square and the iconic Avon River, the Crowne Plaza offers modern accommodation and dining options with a central Christchurch location. CBD dining, shopping and entertainment are just a short walk away, and there are three excellent dining options within the hotel.
Superior Room
Enjoy city views from this 27m2 room which has King or Twin beds and a stylish bathroom with a dual-head shower. Stay connected with WiFi and a 40-inch Samsung smart TV, window-seat and dedicated workspace.
Deluxe Room
The Deluxe Rooms have the same features as the Superior Rooms, but they are located on a higher floor, and include bathrobes and slippers, bottled water, and free drink on arrival.
King Suite
You get great views of Victoria Square from this 34m2 suite which has a King bed, its own lounge space and two 40-inch Samsung smart TVs. You’ll also enjoy a touch of luxury with daily turn-down, a pod coffee machine, robes and slippers, plus deluxe bathroom amenities.
Orari Boutique Heritage Hotel, Christchurch
This lovely heritage-listed Victorian Villa has been stunningly refurbished and offers all modern comforts including air-conditioning in all rooms and a scrumptious breakfast. It is perfectly located in the centre of the city within easy walking distance of its many attractions, restaurants and bars. Each guest room is unique, from small and cosy to large and spacious, and has either a King, Queen, or Twin beds with quality linen and bedding, flat screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and an en-suite or private bathroom. Guests also have the use of the elegant private lounge and dining- room as well as their own private entrance.
Queen Room with Private Bathroom
Located on the Ground floor, this Standard Queen room has a private bathroom directly opposite.
Superior Room with Two Queen Beds
Located on the first floor this Superior Room has two Queen beds and an en-suite bathroom.
Superior King Room
Located on the first floor, this Superior room has a King bed and a large en-suite bathroom with bath and separate shower.
Some of the experiences available in Christchurch are outlined below, but there are many, many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
Christchurch City Helicopter Flight
This flight is a wonderful introduction to Christchurch, the ‘Garden City’, which is known for its English heritage. The Avon River and Botanical Gardens are truly a delight to see from above. Your expert pilot will inform and entertain you with all the latest facts and points of interest such as the Cathedral, new landmarks including the library and the vision for the future of this thriving city. You will also fly over the busy Port of Lyttelton, on Banks Peninsula and get a bird’s-eye view of the Estuary and coastline before you return via the seaside suburbs of Sumner and Redcliffs.
Duration: 20 minutes
Arthur’s Pass, TranzAlpine Train and Guided Walks, Christchurch
Travel from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass on one of the world’s most famous train journeys, the TranzAlpine train. You will cross the fertile farmlands of the Canterbury Plains and enjoy thrilling vistas over deep gorges as you travel alongside the ice-fed Waimakariri River and enter Arthur’s Pass National Park. Enjoy short, guided walks to experience the diverse landscapes and scenic beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park. A lunch stop is included at a country hotel. You will also travel down the Otira Gorge in the heart of the Southern Alps and search for Kea, the endemic alpine parrot before returning to Christchurch.
Duration: 10 Hours. Includes lunch and morning and afternoon tea
Akaroa
~ QUAINT, FRENCH & STYLISH ~
The quaint town of Akaroa is situated on Banks Peninsula, an hour and a half’s drive from Christchurch. It is the site of the only attempted settlement by the French in New Zealand, and their influence is still evident in the street names, quaint historic buildings and inspired cuisine. The spectacular coastline of Akaroa Harbour and the surround bays are the legacy of violent eruptions from three ancient volcanoes.
- Take a harbour cruise to see the rare hectors dolphins and bird life
- Stroll around the harbour taking in some of the French history
- Discover the breathtaking walks the area has to offer
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in the Akaroa area, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
French Bay House, Akaroa
This beautiful, historic villa with its iconic architectural style is conveniently located in the heart of Akaroa. Shops, restaurants, historic sites, artisan galleries and the wharf are just a stroll away. After a busy day enjoying all that Akaroa has to offer you can relax in the garden, on the swing chair, on the terrace or by the stream at the back of the house.
Onawe Room
Situated on the first floor, this room has a view of the hills to the back of Akaroa. The en-suite bathroom has a stained glass/lead light window which is an original feature of the house. As the room is located in the attic space, the roof is slanted but there is ample room for you to move about.
Mount Bossu Room
This room is also situated on the first floor and has a view of the hills surrounding Akaroa, as well as the harbour. It has a Queen bed and an en-suite bathroom along with a small table and chairs and a sofa at the end of the bed. Again, the ceiling is slanted as it is located in the attic space of the house.
Onuku Room
The only ground floor room has a high ceiling with a view of the garden. The King bed can be separated into Twins, and the en-suite bathroom has underfloor-heating for when the weather gets colder.
Tresori Motor Lodge, Akaroa
All units at this luxury motor lodge are north facing, sunny and private and overlook the tiered water fountain and surrounding mountains of the Akaroa basin. You have a choice of spacious Studios, One- and Two-Bedroom units as well as sumptuous Honeymoon/Deluxe Suites featuring Super-King, King, Queen and Single Beds with quality Sheridan linens.
Studio Units
These units are fully-equipped with kitchenettes, spacious open plan living, King beds, and a separate bathroom with shower. Two of the studio units have a corner spa-bath and shower.
One Bedroom Units
Fully-equipped with the luxury of a separate lounge, and kitchenette. The bedroom has a
Queen and Single bed and the bathroom has a spa bath and shower.
Two Bedroom Units
These Units are the same as the One Bedroom Unit but with two separate bedrooms, one bedroom with a King bed and the second bedroom with a Queen bed and a Single bed. The bathroom has a
bath and shower, and there is a separate toilet.
Some of the experiences available in Akaroa are outlined below, but there are many, many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise, Akaroa
Enjoy a cruise on Akaroa Harbour where you will see majestic scenery and stunning wildlife including the rare, native dolphin – the Hector’s Dolphin as well as penguins and other sea birds. Highlights also include some majestic volcanic cliffs and signs of Akaroa’s past including early Māori, French and British settlements.
Duration: 2 Hours
Sunrise Wildlife Guided Sea Kayak Safari, Akaroa
Soak up the serenity of the most magical time of the day, when the weather conditions tend to be calmer and wildlife more active. After a short informative briefing to Sea Kayaking, preparing you for your safe and fun adventure, you will paddle along the coastline watching out for wildlife and marine activity, while your guide points out places of interest and any wildlife activity that they discover. Exploring remote bays and inlets for an ‘up-close-and-personal’ natural Eco-experience that is unique to New Zealand.
Duration: 3 Hours
Kaikoura
~ WHERE THE MOUNTAINS MEET THE SEA ~
The seaside settlement of Kaikoura is a special place, steeped in Māori history and tradition. Set amidst stunning scenery on the rugged east coast of the South Island, it’s a 2.5 hours’ drive from Christchurch and two hours from Picton. It is a world-famous feeding ground for the giant Sperm Whale and is home to a large variety of bird life, dolphins and seals.
- Take a walk on the Peninsula to see the seals
- Enjoy a Whale Watch tour s
- Swim with the dolphins or just enjoy watching them from the boat
- Join a pelagic bird watching cruise
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in the Kaikoura area, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses is a contemporary country hotel located on a deer breeding farm, 12 kilometres north of Kaikoura. It sits at the base of the Kaikoura Seaward Mountain Range, with the Kaikoura coast and famous Mangamaunu Bay only a kilometre to the east. The Lodge provides luxurious accommodation where you can relax and is a good base to explore the area.
All rooms have breath-taking views of the mountains and Pacific Coast and feature beautiful, custom-designed, hand-crafted furniture, tailor-made beds and mattresses, European-style bathrooms with heated towel rails, and floors and rainforest shower heads.
Facilities include a guest restaurant, 15-metre solar heated lap-pool with a changing-room and rainforest shower, in house spa treatments and mountain bikes.
Lodge Rooms and Suites
The three Lodge rooms look out across the deer paddock and up to the mountains. They have an expansive bathroom with a deep Japanese-style two-person soaking-tub, rain-fountain shower and Hapuku Lodge’s custom furnishings, including an extra-large King bed that can be split into twins, balcony, WiFi and minibar.
Hapuku Room
The light-filled Hapuku Room also has a lounge and large bedroom set as King or Twin beds. It is beautifully furnished with fireplace, writing-desk and private entrance.
The Olive House
The Olive House is a free-standing building that used to house the farm’s olive press, and is now a three-bedroom suite of rooms. It can comfortably accommodate three couples or large families. The upper-floor can be separately occupied as a two-bedroom suite including the lounge, while the ground-floor room can be occupied as a standalone guest room.
Lodge Suite
This has a lounge and large bedroom set as King or Twin beds. The sofa in the lounge can also be converted into a Single bed.
One Bedroom Treehouse
The Lodge’s five Tree Houses are unique, nested 10 metres or more above the ground in the canopy of a native Kanuka grove. There are three 1-bedroom Tree Houses, and two “Family” Tree Houses which both have a main bedroom in the upper branches and a somewhat smaller bedroom in the lower branches.
The Tree Houses are designed to complement the natural environment – your bedroom in the sky. Their large windows bring the tree canopies into the bedroom and provide impressive views of Kaikoura’s dramatic mountains and the Pacific Ocean. They all have a balcony, fireplace, TV, WiFi, minibar and a large spa bath. These are warm and inviting with custom-made furniture.
Two Bedroom Treehouse
Manakau PurePod, Kaikoura
PurePods is a total immersion, totally private experience of your own isolated slice of Kiwi paradise.
A delightful nature walk leads to your PurePod hovering above the ferns and tussocks. Revel in the birdsong all day long and, at night, explore the stars of the southern sky from the comfort of your luxury bed. Your PurePod is designed for environmental sustainability. It is made of heavy-duty glass so you can see everything – from the sky above to the native plants growing beneath your feet. Pull back the sliding doors on all three sides and indulge in the isolation.
PurePod – Day views
At Manakau you get the best possible view of the Seaward Kaikouras. Behind your PurePod is a set of coastal foothills with inviting pathways to explore leading to fantastic 360-degree views. There is not a lot of storage, but you only need a few items of clothing and necessary toiletries in a backpack or overnight bag.
PurePod – Dusk views
Your PurePod includes a Queen bed with bed linen, dining table, kitchenette with cooktop and cooking essentials, bathroom with shower, eco-toilet, balcony, solar electricity, bio-fuel capable heaters to power the heating system and top up the hot water and a torch.
The Hamptons, Kaikoura
The Hampton’s is a family-owned and operated boutique bed and breakfast set in a quiet, convenient seaside location just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Kaikoura.
Simple and elegant, each guest room is architecturally-designed with all the comfort of a luxury small hotel but retaining an intimate, homely feel. Each room has comfortable beds, duvets and pillows, quality linens and towels, as well as its own generous seafront deck and garden.
Guest Studio
These rooms embrace the stunning Kaikoura landscape and natural environment opening out onto their own generous seaside deck and garden. The rooms are appointed with a small kitchenette and a modern en-suite bathroom with high quality fittings. They also have air-conditioning, King beds with duvets, crisp white linens, and are equipped with a flat screen LED smart TV, and WiFi.
Some of the experiences available in the Kaikoura area are outlined below, but there are many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
Whale Watch Experience
Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience, and the sightings vary. Giant Sperm Whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents. A typical Whale Watch tour may encounter New Zealand Fur Seals, pods of Dusky dolphins and the endangered Wandering Albatross. Depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales, and Southern Right Whales. Orcas and Hector’s dolphins are common sightings.
Duration: 3.5 Hours
Dolphin Encounter for Spectators and Swimmers, Kaikoura
The Dusky dolphins inhabit the coastal waters off Kaikoura all year round, so their acrobatic leaps and interactive behaviour can be encountered every day, weather permitting.
On your Dolphin Encounter you will have an exhilarating experience either swimming with, or watching the Dusky dolphins in their natural environment.
Duration: 3 Hours
Albatross Encounter, Kaikoura
Kaikoura is also arguably one of the world’s most exciting arenas for pelagic (ocean going) birds. Within 15 minutes of the Kaikoura Peninsula, you can expect to see a considerable array of albatross, petrels, shearwaters, terns, shags and gulls.
Duration: 2.5 Hours
Hanmer Springs
~ THERMAL MINERAL POOLS ~
This delightful alpine spa resort has grown up around the natural thermal hot pools, and is the perfect place to relax. But, snow-skiing, jet-boating, fishing, golf, walking and horse-trekking are also high on the list of visitor attractions. Hanmer is an easy 90-minute drive from either Christchurch or Kaikoura, and 3 hours from Greymouth on the West Coast.
- Soak in the soothing mineral waters at the Thermal Pools & Spa
- Enjoy a jetboating trip
- Walk to the lookout at Conical Hill
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in the Hanmer Springs area, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
Hanmer Springs Hotel
This beautiful local landmark building is located in the centre of this charming alpine village. It has been lovingly transformed into a resort that retains its original Spanish design. Guest facilities include a swimming pool and tennis court.
Superior King
A well-equipped, 27m2 room with a comfortable King bed, flat screen TV, WiFi, fridge and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Braemar Lodge and Spa
This luxury lodge has a new, contemporary design, predominantly in granite and cedar. Twenty-four guest suites branch off from the main lodge, with its reception, lounge, bar and dining areas.
A highlight of the complex is the Asian Inspired Spa, with opens onto ponds and landscaped gardens. Saunas, relaxation and plunge pools, and a fitness centre with massage and other treatments are all available here.
Each of Braemar Lodge’s large open-plan 60m2 suites offers designer furnishings, a Californian Super-King bed (King-split options available) and an elegant marble bathroom with a double spa bath. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto your own private terrace, from where you can revel in the views over the tranquil Hanmer Basin and surrounding mountains.
Superior Suites
These suites have mountain and valley views, a flaming gas fire, flat screen TV and WiFi.
Superior Spa Suites
These suites are the same as the Superior Suites but have partial mountain and valley views, and include a private hot tub on the outdoor terrace.
Deluxe Spa Suites
These suites are the same as the Superior Spa Suites, but they have uninterrupted views of the surrounding valley and mountains.
Some of the experiences available in Hanmer Springs are outlined below, but there are many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
Thermal Springs and Spa, Hanmer Springs
Spend some time relaxing at Hanmer’s Thermal Springs with its 12 open-air thermal pools of varying temperatures, private thermal pools, sauna and steam rooms, a heated freshwater pool, as well as a large family activity pool with to waterslides, all set amongst landscaped gardens with picnic areas and a licensed café. And make time to enhance your wellbeing at the Spa which specialises in body and beauty treatments.
Duration: Up to 1 Day
Arthur's Pass
~ RELAX IN AN ALPINE SETTING ~
This alpine region in the Arthur’s Pass National Park lies at the centre of the pass which cuts through the Southern Alps east to west, two hours’ drive from Christchurch and just over an hour from Greymouth. It is the highest of the three roads that cross the Southern Alps, and is a stopping point for the TranzAlpine train on its spectacular journey between Christchurch and Greymouth.
- Explore the historic village
- Enjoy the many hiking and backcountry trails including the Devil’s Punchbowl
- Keep an eye out for the cheeky kea and other birdlife
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in the Arthur’s Pass area, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
Wilderness Lodge Arthur’s Pass
With glorious views of the Southern Alps and the Arthur’s Pass National Park from all rooms, Wilderness Lodge sits on the historic site of the Cora-Lyn Station, 16 kilometres east of Arthur’s Pass. Walk from your room into a natural paradise of beech forest, tussock clearings, moss-lined streams and lakes. Guests are invited to experience the high country, its ecology, wildlife and merino sheep- farming through complimentary guided nature and farm activities. Meals are served at the Mount Rolleston Restaurant where the chefs proudly celebrate New Zealand ingredients and specialise in carefully-prepared fresh local food.
Mountain View Room
These rooms are spacious with a King or Queen and a Single bed, private bathroom with shower or bath, sunny views overlooking the Waimakariri valley and mountain peaks, tea and coffee-making facilities, fresh fruit, snacks, flowers and a daily service.
Alpine View Lodge
The spacious Alpine View Lodges have mountain views, a lounge area and a private sundeck in a secluded Beech Forest clearing. They have Super-King beds, a spa-bath, gas fire, stunning views, walking poles, tea and coffee making facilities, fresh fruit, snacks, flowers and are serviced daily.
Some of the experiences available in the Arthur’s Pass area are outlined below, but there are many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
Limestone Castles and Easy Kayaking
A relaxed guided tour/walk to a landscape made famous by the Narnia film ‘The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe‘. Paddle a gentle mountain lake and enjoy lunch amongst natural limestone castles.
Mount Cook & Tekapo
~ NZ'S HIGHEST PEAK ~
This area is New Zealand at its best, easily accessible from Christchurch or Queenstown, each just three hours’ drive away. A vast region of protected wilderness, stretching 65 kilometres along the Southern Alps and encompassing 22 of the country’s highest peaks, dominated by Mount Cook at 3,764 metres. The road to the park runs along the Tasman Valley beside Lake Pukaki, which is fabulously turquoise due to the glacier-ground rock particles that are suspended in its waters. At the end of the valley, you’ll find Mount Cook village and the most amazing alpine scenery you can imagine.
- Take a scenic flight with Air Safaris over Aoraki Mt Cook and the region’s awesome glaciers
- Land on the Tasman Glacier by ski plane
- Enjoy the numerous walks in the area
- Explore the dazzling starry skies at the Mount John Observatory
- See the melting ice-face of the Tasman Glacier on a MAC boat tour
- Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in the Mt Cook and Tekapo area, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
Lake Tekapo Lodge
You will enjoy fabulous views of the lake and surrounding mountains from this conveniently-located Lodge which sits above the village of Tekapo. Offering the best of Kiwi hospitality, Lake Tekapo Lodge has three recently-renovated King bedrooms with lake and mountain views, a stylish dining- room for breakfast and evening socialising, quiet lounge room with library and contemporary, unique works of New Zealand art featured throughout.
Lake View Rooms
All rooms open onto a balcony or patio, so you can enjoy the glorious views, they have en-suite bathrooms, flat screen TV’s and WiFi.
The Hermitage, Mt Cook
The Hermitage is the perfect base to explore the natural wonders of the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, with a variety of accommodation options, a collection of dining establishments and unique activities, while providing genuine kiwi hospitality. You can join the team at the Stargazing Centre – voted the world’s largest International Dark Sky Reserve – to view the night sky through high powered telescopes, take a mesmerizing journey through the cosmos at the Digital Dome Planetarium or experience a journey through time in the 3-D Theatre. Discover the history of this iconic region at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or explore the Tasman Glacier and surrounding area by foot or bike on the well-marked paths, or 4WD, MAC boat, helicopter or fixed wing flight.
Standard King or Queen Room
Compact rooms with great views of Aoraki Mount Cook. Available with either a King bed or Twin singles, balconies or patios, en-suite bathroom, WiFi and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Superior Room
Well-appointed room with great views of Aoraki Mount Cook, Mt Wakefield and the Hooker Valley. Each room features two Queen beds, en-suite bathroom, capsule coffee machine, TV, binoculars, WiFi and a glass balustrade balcony.
Premium King or Queen Twin Room
Beautifully appointed, these large rooms have floor-to-ceiling panoramic views over the Aoraki Basin to Aoraki Mount Cook. Modern, comfortable and available as King or Twin Queen beds with en-suite bathroom, capsule coffee machine, air-conditioning and WiFi.
Premium Plus King or Queen Twin Room
Premium Plus hotel rooms on Levels 9 and 10 showcase the ultimate in uninterrupted views of Aoraki Mount Cook. These rooms also include extra touches like complimentary bottles of water, a personal Nespresso machine, 55″ TV, bathrobes and slippers.
Skyscape, Twizel
Experience the wild beauty of New Zealand’s Mackenzie Country with its International Dark Sky Reserve from your SkyBed, designed to maximise the extraordinary views, both day and night.
Skyscape Views
Outside, in a sunken courtyard, you can relax in a two-metre stainless steel-cedar bathtub. No chemicals are added – just heated water, sourced from a nearby spring. Facilities include continental breakfast provisions, an evening meal is available on request, air-conditioning, WiFi, mobile phone for 24/7 calls to the office and pure spring water.
Skyscape Room
Your SkyBed nestles within native scrub and tussocks in a private location. It has a glass-roofed bedroom and an earth-roofed kitchenette and bathroom. With the unit recessed into the ground, you feel part of the environment, whilst also having shelter and privacy. The King bed rests at ground level, so you are, in terms of perspective, lying on the ground viewing the stars.
Some of the experiences available in the Aoraki Mount Cook and Tekapo area are outlined below, but there are many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
The Grand Traverse Scenic Flight, Tekapo
The Grand Traverse is recognised as the premier Aoraki Mount Cook flight-seeing experience, encompassing two World Heritage National Parks and 200 km of New Zealand’s most memorable and breath-taking scenery. Highlights include the turquoise glacial lakes, golden tussock lands, and the braided river systems of the Mackenzie basin, remote High-Country sheep stations, glacial valleys, New Zealand’s highest mountains and the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers spilling down to the rainforests of the west coast.
The aircraft operated are ideal for New Zealand’s conditions, offering a window seat for every passenger with wings-above to ensure unobstructed viewing below, and your friendly pilot will provide an informative and enjoyable commentary.
Duration: 1 Hour
Big Sky Stargazing, Mount Cook
The darkness of the night sky around Aoraki Mt Cook is unbeatable. Let the team at Big Sky Stargazing introduce you to the wonders above. The 4,367km2 Gold Status Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest in the world, and for this tour you will be at the centre of it all.
Experienced guides will introduce you to the beautiful southern night sky with a full hour using the naked eye, astro-binoculars and state of the art 14″ and 11″ astronomy telescopes. Unleash your imagination as you discover this neighbourhood in the universe including the Southern Cross, seasonal ecliptic objects, planets, stunning star-clusters, moons, distant galaxies and even the local galaxy, the spectacular Milky Way.
Duration: 90 Minutes
The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, Mount Cook
A tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary, humanitarian, ambassador and one of the world’s greatest explorers, the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre showcases the Aoraki Mount Cook region, its people and its place in the universe.
Designed to educate and entertain, the centre features a spectacular state-of-the-art 3D Mount Cook Magic movie, the world’s southernmost digital-dome Planetarium, documentaries and a Museum which documents the pioneering heart of the region and features the impressive Hillary Gallery. The café and bar area offers indoor and outdoor seating and floor to ceiling mountain views.
Explorer Passes include: unlimited entry for a 24-hour period to the museum and all theatre shows.
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