southern wildlife & heritage

Situated on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, the vibrant city of Christchurch is the largest city on the island. Dubbed the 'Garden City', it is known for its many lush green spaces and possesses a multicultural charm with an added dash of Victorian flair.

The city offers a fabulous array of activities, including punting down the Avon River, helicopter tours, hot air ballooning, whale and dolphin watching. Enjoy a stroll around the beautifully sculptured parks, visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and browse numerous art galleries. 

Oamaru is known for remarkable Victorian architecture and penguins. This is indeed an unusual combination but Oamaru is no ordinary town. Many of the town centre’s newly renovated historical buildings play host to an array of quirky galleries, wonderfully bizarre shops, and trendy cafes all run by a small tight-knit community of often wildly eccentric bohemian locals. Oamaru’s main attraction is undoubtedly the opportunity to witness colonies of blue penguins, the smallest and only blue species of penguin in the world, as well as yellow-eyed penguins, one of the world's rarest birds. Once this highlight has been ticked off the list, take a stroll around the well-preserved Historic District, with its distinctive, limestone, nineteenth-century buildings that have afforded Oamaru the title “The Whitestone City”. Throw in a surprisingly impressive culinary scene and it's no wonder that this kooky little hamlet is fast gaining a reputation as New Zealand’s coolest town.

Creating one wall of the eroded valley that now forms Otago Harbour, the Otago Peninsula lies half an hour’s drive east of Dunedin City on the Otago Coast. The sliver of land is home to numerous interesting heritage sites, stunning wild walking trails, and impressive, accessible wildlife. The haven of rolling hills, tranquil bays and soft sandy beaches make idyllic landscapes to explore. A host of tours show visitors sites such as the impressive gothic revival Larnach Castle, the 1000-year-old matai trees in the Glenfalloch Woodland Garden, and the Ōtākou Marae Cultural Centre, which offers insight into Ngai Tahu life. Animals that make their home here include albatross, penguins, fur seals and sea lions. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the port’s daily operations and learn about maritime pursuits at the Maritime Museum.