2 Best Sights in Christchurch and Canterbury, New Zealand

New Zealand's only open-range zoo is now home to its only Great Ape Center for gorillas and orangutans, making it the place to come to glimpse these endangered animals. You will also see both native (kiwi birds and tuatara reptiles) and exotic (tigers, wild dogs, cheetah, zebras, and white rhinos) animals. Orana is world-renowned for its conservation work and breeding programs for endangered native and exotic species. Check out the different animal feeding times; hand-feeding the giraffes is a real highlight, and even small kids manage with a bit of help. For a seriously close-up view of the lions being fed, join the Lion Encounter, where you can watch from inside a specially modified vehicle. A zebra-striped Safari Shuttle with commentary loops around the park, or you can join a guided walk. It's about a 15-minute drive from Christchurch airport; there's also a door-to-door shuttle for an additional cost.

In addition to familiar farm animals and other zoo regulars, Willowbank has a section devoted to New Zealand's unique wildlife, from the national symbol, the kiwi, to the tuatara—the world's only living dinosaur. There's the cheeky mountain parrot, kea; the bush parrot, kaka; and the very rare but majestic takahe. To have all five of these iconic creatures in one place is a rarity. Willowbank is also home to Ko Tane, a fun, interactive Māori cultural experience followed by a traditional meal with a hāngi main course. You'll be greeted with a powhiri, a welcome ceremony, and you can try your hand at swinging the poi, flaxen balls on long strings used in traditional Māori dances (it's not as easy as it looks), or the famous haka (ceremonial dance).