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south island itineraries

christchurch - hanmer springs

CHRISTCHURCH - HANMER SPRINGS

Driver Information
New Zealand ItinerariesTravel distance is approximately 135kms (84 miles).
Allow at least 1.8 hours drive time (not including stops).
Part of the Alpine Pacific Triangle Touring Route

Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and a popular starting point for many South Island journeys. The city is a unique mix of vibrant lifestyle, cultural wonders and lush gardens - which is why the city is also referred to as 'The Garden City'. From a lively arts community to an unique mix of galleries, historic buildings and large parks scattered throughout the city, this is a great place to start your South Island adventure.

Start your morning with a delicious brunch at one of the many stylish cafes along 'The Strip' in the heart of the town before perhaps enjoying a quiet punt down the quaint Avon River, or a trip around the town in the historic tram.

Today you leave Christchurch and head north on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route past the beach townships of Woodened, Waikuku, Leithfield and Amberley before passing Waipara and heading inland past the peaceful rural townships of Waikari, Hurunui and Culverden on route to Hanmer Springs.

Some notable stops along the route to Hanmer Springs include:

WAIPARA VALLEY
Only a 45 minute drive North from Christchurch is one of New Zealand's finest (and fastest growing) wine regions. Located at the southern gateway to the Alpine Pacific Triangle, the Waipara Valley is not only famous for its wineries and vineyards, but this is also the base for the historic Weka Pass Railway.

Enjoy lunch at one of the vineyards, such as Pegasus Bay Winery, or buy a couple of bottles of local wines to enjoy when you arrive in Hanmer Springs for the evening.

HURUNUI HOTEL
The historic Hurunui Hotel has held it's liquor licence since July 1860 and has been restored to its former glory. The hotel is popular stop on the road to Hanmer Springs for a refreshing cold drink, coffee or lunch break. Non designated drivers can enjoy sampling the hotels finest brews! A great place for a photo stop!

BLACK HILLS HERITAGE COLLECTION
Located just up the road from the Hurunui Hotel, the Black Hills Heritage Collection has replicated historic stables and gives an insight into the life of early New Zealand settlers. Farm tours are also available.

If you have time, a scenic gliding flight is a pretty spectacular and ultra-special way to enjoy an aerial view of this part of New Zealand.

THRILL SEEKERS CANYON
Located at the turn off to Hanmer Springs, Thrillseekers Canyon is a ‘must do’ for adrenalin junkies! Enjoy one of the best Kiwi jetboat trips imaginable, have a go at river rafting or go bungy jumping off the bridge! Other activities include quad-bike safari, paintball and off-road kart safaris.

HANMER SPRINGS
Hanmer Springs is New Zealand's favourite alpine village due to the major attraction of Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa for Kiwi and international visitors alike! There is plenty to see and do in Hamner Springs, all designed to be as relaxing or energetic as you want.

Along with a great range of motels, the area has some of the best boutique Bed & Breakfast homes around, as well as plenty of holiday houses to rent. For luxury accommodation the Heritage Hanmer Springs is located in the heart of village.

The village itself is easy to walk around and there is a good selection of cafes and restaurants to suit most budgets and tastebuds!

Highly recommended Hanmer Springs tourist attractions include...

Thermal Pools - The award winning thermal pools give you the choice of relaxing in the natural environment of their thermal mineral pools or getting wet and wild with some waterslide fun. A choice of pools are available over this huge area, including large outdoor thermal pools regulated between 36-40 degrees Celsius, a 25 metre fresh water pool plus a family activity area with heated water-slide. Private thermal pools are also available along with sauna and steam rooms.

The Spa At Hanmer Springs - Located in the same venue as the thermal pools, this is the ultimate in personal pampering and relaxation. The recently refurbished spa features Vichy massage treatment rooms, Hydrostorm unit, couples treatment rooms, relaxation lounge, private saunas and steam rooms plus private thermal pools. From massages to hot stone therapy, to manicures, pedicures and facials… this is where you can indulge and self pamper in a tranquil environment.

Hanmer Springs Forest Walks - The area is popular for short strolls, day walks or more serious tramps and there is definitely a walk to suit almost everyone, no matter how fit or unfit! The Conical Hill Walk is the most popular walk and boasts magnificent views from the lookout shelter. This is a moderate walk and 1 hour return. There are plenty of other forest walks and we suggest you visit the Visitor Information Centre in Hanmer Springs for a complete list of all walks.

Mountain Biking - Hanmer Springs offers a great range for mountain biking from easy to hard with great all weather riding. There are plenty of mountain bike forest tracks and local bike hire is available.

Mini Golf - The village has a couple of really great themed mini golf courses and they are a lot of fun for all the family.

Horse Trekking - Explore the spectacular surrounding countryside and Hanmer Forest Park on horseback.

Backtrax Quad Biking - Specialised quad biking company, offering safe, supervised quad bike tours in spectacular breathtaking scenery and river crossings. Suitable for beginners to experienced riders on easy to ride bikes.