Dorset Testimonials
Marvellous price and so handy to everything, thank you!
Harris Family, Australia 30-03-2009
- Review Dorset Apartments
There's plenty to do in and around Christchurch. Here's a few ideas to get you started - the staff at Dorset House are happy to help book you on any of these activities and can offer advice on many more.
Approximately 1 hour north of Christchurch is an area known as Waipara. This area contains some of the best wine growing soil in Canterbury and has numerous wineries including: Pegasus Bay, Canterbury House, Camshorn Winery, Daniel Schuster Wines, Sherwood Estate and many others. Most wineries are open for cellar doors sales and some wineries (for example Pegasus Bay and Canterbury House) also have dining available.
Experience New Zealand wildlife first hand and learn about the diversity of this country's natural environment and history. Willowbank prides itself on its conservation and rehabilitation of rare & endangered New Zealand species. Visit the Kiwi House and see our national animal up close. In the evening, join in the Ko Tane cultural performance and learn about Maori culture, poi-dance, the Haka war dance, day to day life in a Maori village. Open 10am - 10pm daily (except Christmas), with Ko Tane performances at 5.30pm and 6.30pm. Meals available.
The International Antarctic Centre opened on 28 September 1990. The Centre, developed by Christchurch International Airport Limited, was established to support Antarctic scientific programmes. Its architecture was inspired by the icebergs, ice shelves and glaciers of Antarctica. The centre includes many interactive displays and attractions. Experience the Antarctic at the ‘World’s Best Antarctic Attraction’!
Orana Wildlife Park specialises in getting visitors “up close and personal with the animals”. Some animal encounters are not offered anywhere else in the world! Hand feed a Giraffe! Meet White Rhinoceros in a face-to-face encounter! Watch a Cheetah sprint! , Pat a Llama!. Thrill seekers can participate in a wonderful experience, unique to the Park called the Lion Encounter Ride - ride on board our specially designed feeding wagon which travels with the Animal Keepers through the African Lion Reserve for close up views of these magnificent creatures feeding - a truly memorable experience! The park is open daily 10am – 5pm (except Christmas Day).
Riding the Gondola is a spectacular experience that is enjoyed by visitors to Christchurch and locals. The 945 metre Gondola ride gently lifts visitors, in the comfort of 4 person passenger cabins, almost 500 metres (1500 feet) above sea level. Unique 360 degree views of Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour unfold as you rise to the summit complex, on the crater rim of Christchurch's famous extinct volcano. Nature walkways, a café and displays make this a great way to experience the region.
Step back in time, and walk into a turn of the century village, the way Christchurch used to be. Ferrymead Heritage Park features a Heritage Township complete with Picture Theatre, School House, Church, Tearooms, Jail and Railway Station as well as a fascinating array of museum and heritage collections. 10.00am - 4.30pm daily (except Christmas Day).
Approximately an hour out of Christchurch and situated on Banks Peninsula, the area was first settled by the French in the 19th century before New Zealand was officially claimed by the British. the main streets retain their French heritage and some of the early forms of architecture relate to those early days. Often regarded as the Riviera of Christchurch for its bays and cobalt blue waters Akaroa is a major vacation and weekend retreat with wonderful walks and relaxing cafes.
Few other rivers can offer you New Zealand's most stunning scenery paired with the thrill and excitement of some of the most challenging white waters commercially rafted. Rafting with the friendly and professional guides at Rangitata Rafts is highly regarded as one of the best rafting experiences in New Zealand. The Rangitata Gorge offers great excitement but it is the 'total day experience' which you will remember. Get off the normal tourist track. Join one of our great day trips from Christchurch or drive yourselves to the Peel Forest rafting base.
Jet boating, bungy jumping, horse trekking, mountain biking, awesome hiking and relaxing hot springs are just some of the delights in Hanmer Springs. Situtated approximately 1 ½ hours inland from Christchurch, it is the perfect destination for a day trip. Also wonderful in cold weather - soak in the hot pools!
Canterbury's geography and climate are ideal for ballooning - they provide a unique situation where passengers can experience Canterbury's landscape as only a few have seen it - from a gently floating hot air balloon.
There is no other place in the world where it is possible to fly from the centre of the city, in view of the sun rising out of the ocean, toward snow-capped mountains.
Live cultural theatre event, based at Ferrymead Heritage Park. The most dramatic historic re-enactment ever played out in the history of New Zealand. Over 20 acres of open-air theatre involving two villages and a cast of many. Journey back in time to the early 1800's where the traditions of ancient Maori values clashed with those of early pioneering settlers and colonialism. A walking, interactive theatre experience, to be following by a traditional hangi (earth cooked with hot rocks) meal. This experience comes highly recommended to all Christchurch visitors - innovative and exciting.
