Spring days in Ōtautahi Christchurch: ChristchurchNZ
It’s true that nowhere does spring quite like Ōtautahi Christchurch. 
The city is ON SHOW this season, and you are spoilt for choice with ways to spend your sunshine filled spring days. Here are a few experiences that the whole family will love.
Orana Wildlife Park
For the wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers,
Orana Wildlife Park has to be top of the spring activity list. Set in 185 hectares and with over 1000 animals, this is Aotearoa’s only open range wildlife park.
Meet New Zealand’s only gorillas, hand-feed majestic giraffes, see the cheeky kea, observe kiwi, get up close with rhinos, and meet Kevin, the giraffe calf. With scheduled daily animal presentations to connect you to the animals, the whole family will leave with a newfound appreciation (and love) for all things wildlife, and Orana’s conservation work. www.oranawildlifepark.co.nz
Akaroa Dolphins 
There’s nothing quite like the magic of cruising across the glistening Akaroa Harbour with a couple of Hector’s dolphins alongside. Akaroa Dolphins is the expert team ready to take you and the whānau out for an unforgettable day on the water. Discover the history of Akaroa as you sail aboard the luxurious boat and encounter the rare Hector’s dolphins that call the harbour home. And it’s not just dolphins you might spy; the team also endeavour to give you the best possible viewing of local New Zealand fur seals, penguins, and seabirds. This friendly and comfortable experience includes a complimentary local award-winning wine, beer, or juice, as well as delicious home baking. Enough said?
www.akaroadolphins.co.nz
International Antarctic Centre
It may be heating up outside, but it is still icy cold at the International Antarctic Centre. A unique experience is waiting inside and one that has been a part of Ōtautahi since 1992. Brave an Antarctic storm, go off-road in a Hägglund, befriend a husky, see the penguins, experience Antarctica from all four dimensions and leave with a newfound love and appreciation for the continent, just like the explorers before you. Dust off the winter coat and discover all of the icy magic that awaits.
www.iceberg.co.nz
Punting on the Avon
While some days are for adventure, others are for relaxation, and nothing quite does the latter like Punting on the Avon. See the city from a different perspective as you settle into your seat and meander along the river propelled by a skilled punter in Edwardian attire. Soak up the peaceful setting and stunning scenery, get up close to the river’s wildlife, and listen to the thoughtful commentary from your punter.
The 30-minute tour departs from the historic Antigua Boat Sheds or the Worcester Bridge in the central city and is a perfect way for the whole family to unwind on a beautiful spring day.
www.christchurchattractions.nz/punting
