Christchurch currently receives a large number of conferences but lacks the facilities to comfortably handle conferences of more than about 1 000. The addition of the new Centre should provide a major boost to central city hotels. Sporting attractions draw many additional visitors to Christchurch. Canterbury has a number of fine ski fields, including the highest international ski field in the southern hemisphere. Canterbury rivers are known for excellent trout and salmon fishing, jet boating and white-water rafting.
Golf is a popular sport with the domestic population and visitors alike.
Canterbury currently has 36 golf courses either in the City or within a reasonable distance. Further courses are either under development or are planned. Canterbury Attractions Christchurch, as the major centre, is the entry point to many other attractions within the province of Canterbury. This is a popular day trip for international visitors. Hanmer Springs , which is a thermal resort located about 90 minutes drive north of Christchurch.