EXPLORE THE CANTERBURY REGION, NEW ZEALAND
Canterbury is a tourist hotspot with so much on offer in this one region! Within two hours of its biggest city, Christchurch, you can be skiing, bungy jumping, hiking, swimming with dolphins, wine tasting, fishing, riding bike trails, surfing, playing golf, watching whales and so much more!
NEWTONS FALLS (AKAROA)
These falls are a short distance from Akaroa which, make them a great addition to your ‘to do’ list if you are visiting this gorgeous harbour town. You can walk or drive to the end of Aylmers Valley Road where you will find a small car park. Just take it slow as it is a gravel road and narrow in places. No problem for the average car though. From the road end it is a short walk, just five minutes, to the falls. Not really a swimming hole but a very picturesque spot among native bush. The perfect place for a picnic or to enjoy some nature and fill in an hour or two. If you do decide to check out Newtons Falls be sure to keep an eye out for the big black pig on the side of the track!
MANAIA NATIVE HABITAT – LITTLE RIVER CAMPGROUND (BANKS PENINSULAR)
This campground spans eighteen acres of lush native bush in the Okuti Valley, just minutes from the quaint village of Little River. The perfect place to stop for a picnic and stroll on the way to or from Akaroa. Or spend a few days camping alongside the river and enjoy the tunes of tui and other native birds that live among century old trees such as Kahikatea, Totara and Matai. Ideal and affordable accommodation for tents, backpackers and campervans and a great place to base yourself if you are exploring the Banks Peninsular. You can find out more about this nature paradise on the Little River Campground website.
KAIKOURA PENINSULAR (KAIKOURA)
If you are stopping in Kaikoura you must include a visit to the peninsular to experience the dramatic scenery, marine wildlife, interesting geology and historic sites. You can choose to do the entire Kaikoura Peninsular Walkway or just park at the Point Kean car park and start from there. At a lower tide you can walk around the rocks and then back along the cliff top to get the best of both views. Getting down onto the rocks is a must to get up close with the wildlife, but not too close! Make sure to stay outside of boundaries for bird nesting areas and a safe distance from the seals. If you are lucky you may spot dolphins or whales off shore. You want to give yourself a couple of hours here to fully take in all this special place has to offer. For more information on this area and the walking tracks visit the Department of Conservation website.
WAIAU RIVER ESTATE (HAMNER SPRINGS)
This small family owned and run boutique vineyard is home to Hells Gate Wines and High Country Honey. Located about 13kms south of Hamner Springs, Waiau River Estate is right on the water’s edge with the most gorgeous views. If you like wine tasting or just love honey then you will no be disappointed with a stop here. Any products you might like to purchase can only be done so at the cellar door or from their online store. You can take in the landscape while enjoying a cheese platter and a wine of your choice. Or maybe a coffee and sweet treat might be your preference. Their honey mead is also worth a try. This is also a lovely setting for a wedding or function if you are looking for a Canterbury venue. So if you are planning to spend some time in or near Hamner Springs make sure you save some time to call in to Waiau River Estate.
KURA TĀWHITI – CASTLE HILL (WAIMAKARIRI BASIN)
Named Castle Hill by early European travellers, the Kura Tāwhiti Conservation Area is truly a special place. Its grand limestone rock is valued for its natural, cultural, historic and recreation significance. To the south island iwi (Māori tribe) of Ngāi Tahu the connection is strong from distant ancestors to present generations. Kura Tāwhiti means “the treasure from a distant land’. This comes from the kumara that was once grown in the region. To a geologist this place is fascinating and to a botanist there are many treasures here to discover. Rock climbers frequent these rocks for the many obstacles and challenges they present. For many though it is just a natural wonder to enjoy and explore. If you get there early in the morning or late in the afternoon you may be lucky to avoid the crowds. To witness a sunrise or sunset here could also be spectacular.
ŌTEPATOTU SCENIC RESERVE (AKAROA)
If you are heading to Akaroa you have to take the Tourist Drive along Summit Road and stop at the Ōtepatotu Scenic Reserve. A nice spot to stop for a picnic and walk up to the lookout for amazing 360 views! It is about a one hour loop track with a little climb but nothing too strenuous. And make sure you go right to the top and not just the first lookout, the top lookout is by far the best.
