Eco-tourism
One of the major challenges facing tourism today is the sustainability of the industry from an environmental perspective. Christchurch and Canterbury are uniquely placed to maintain the balance of the current ecologically pristine environment with the demands of an ever more environmentally aware international tourism market. Christchurch & Canterbury Marketing is directly involved in Green Globe 21 certification for its operator business partners, Canterbury communities, and its constituent regions.
Hector’s Dolphin
New Zealand is the only home of the smallest and rarest species of dolphin, the Hector’s dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori). These are seen mainly around the coast of the South Island, but focused in Akaroa Harbour, which is about 90 minutes from Christchurch and Lyttelton (15 minutes from Christchurch).
From a population of just 600 in 1985, the dolphin numbers have risen to around 5000, largely due to the community involvement and conservation project at the dolphin sanctuary around Banks Peninsula .
Useful information
