North Canterbury Travel Guide

Discover the stunning natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, food scene, and more in North Canterbury. Plan your perfect trip with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to North Canterbury

North Canterbury is a picturesque region located in Canterbury, on the South Island of New Zealand. This stunning area is an ideal place for nature lovers to explore scenic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in North Canterbury

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

North Canterbury boasts a rich cultural heritage, reflecting the Maori and European influence. Learn about the region’s fascinating history by visiting these cultural attractions:

  • Ohinetahi Garden: This award-winning garden near Akaroa is a beautiful display of art and nature.

  • Hanmer Springs Heritage Forest: Take a relaxing stroll through this beautiful forest and explore the historic logging remains.

  • The Plains Vintage Railway & Historical Museum: This museum in Tinwald presents the history of the Mid-Canterbury province.

  • Hurunui Village Museum: Located in the Hurunui District, this museum features exhibits on the region’s history, culture, and heritage.

  • North Canterbury Transport Museum: Situated in Kaiapoi, this museum showcases vintage vehicles, tractors, and farm equipment.

Natural Attractions of North Canterbury: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

North Canterbury’s natural beauty is stunning, with its mountains, forests, rivers, and coastline. Here are few natural attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

  • Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: Take a dip in the relaxing natural hot springs, surrounded by mountains and forests.

  • Arthur’s Pass National Park: This picturesque park showcases the mountains, forests, and glaciers of the Southern Alps.

  • Kaikoura Coastal Trail: This hiking and biking trail takes you along the stunning coastline, offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.

  • Waipara Valley Wine Region: This stunning wine region is famous for its vineyards, wineries, and charming villages.

  • Ashburton River Trail: Set in the heart of the Broadfield farming community, this trail runs along the Ashburton River, offering stunning views of the countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Canterbury

North Canterbury is full of hiking and biking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Here are a few of the best hikes and bike rides:

  • Mount Oxford Summit Track: This challenging hike takes you to the summit of Mount Oxford, offering spectacular views of the Canterbury Plains.

  • Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail: This picturesque bike trail takes you from the alpine beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook to the stunning Pacific Ocean.

  • Mount Grey/Maukatere Conservation Park: This conservation park features several hiking trails, including the Mount Grey/Waipara Valley Track, which takes you through stunning forests and mountain landscapes.

  • Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area: This conservation area offers multiple hiking options, including the Castle Hill Walk and the Korowai/Torlesse Tussocklands Park Walk, both offering stunning views of limestone formations and native flora.

Best Things to Do in North Canterbury: Activities and Tours

North Canterbury is full of exciting activities and adventures to enjoy. Here are a few of the best:

  • Whale Watching Tour: Take a whale watching tour from Kaikoura and see sperm, humpback, and pilot whales along with seals, dolphins, and albatrosses.

  • Jet Boating Tour: Take an exhilarating jet boating ride in Hanmer Springs or the Rakaia River.

  • Horse Riding: Enjoy horse riding through North Canterbury’s stunning farmland and countryside.

  • Caving Adventure: Explore the underground world of North Canterbury’s limestone caves, including the popular Castle Hill Caves.

  • Scenic Flights: Take a scenic flight over North Canterbury’s stunning landscapes, including the Southern Alps and the beautiful coastline.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Canterbury

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to North Canterbury:

Day 1: Hanmer Springs

Spend the day relaxing in the natural hot springs of Hanmer Springs.

Day 2: Kaikoura

Take a whale watching tour and explore the scenic coastline of Kaikoura.

Day 3: Waipara Valley Wine Region

Enjoy wine tasting in one of the Waipara Valley’s many vineyards and wineries.

Day 4: Arthur’s Pass National Park

Explore the stunning mountain scenery of Arthur’s Pass National Park and hike to the Devil’s Punchbowl waterfall.

Day 5: Christchurch

Visit Christchurch to see its famous Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, and stunning architecture.

Day 6: Mount Oxford

Hike to the summit of Mount Oxford and enjoy the spectacular views of the Canterbury Plains.

Day 7: North Canterbury Coast

Take a scenic drive along the North Canterbury Coast and visit different beaches and nearby towns.

Food and Drink Scene of North Canterbury

North Canterbury’s culinary scene is exciting and diverse, featuring local produce, wine, and farm-to-table cuisine. Here are a few of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Whitebait Fritters: These fritters are made with the seasonal delicacy of whitebait, a small fish that is caught in the rivers of Canterbury.

  • Lamb Roast Dinner: Enjoy a traditional lamb roast dinner made from locally sourced lamb.

  • Venison Sausages: These sausages are made with fresh venison from the local farms in North Canterbury.

  • Green-lipped Mussels: These mussels are a local delicacy and are served in many restaurants in the region.

Local Beverages

  • Waipara Valley Wine: The Waipara Valley is famous for its exciting wine scene and award-winning vineyards.

  • Monteith’s Beer: This West Coast beer is a must-try brew that is served in many local bars and restaurants.

Where to Stay in North Canterbury: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Canterbury has a range of accommodation options to suit any budget and preference. Here are some of the top options:

  • Heritage Hanmer Springs: This historic hotel offers quality accommodation with hot springs on-site.

  • Akaroa Cottages: These cozy cottages offer stunning views of the ocean and are only a short distance from the town.

  • Rosedale Estate: This luxury estate is set on a 35-acre farm and offers stunning views of the countryside.

  • Christchurch YHA: This hostel is located in the centre of Christchurch and is ideal for budget travellers.

What to Buy in North Canterbury: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

North Canterbury is full of local souvenirs and products that make perfect gifts to bring back home. Here are some of the top options:

  • Pounamu (Greenstone) Jewelry: This traditional Maori jewelry is made from greenstone and is a unique gift to bring back home.

  • Farmers’ Market Produce: North Canterbury has several farmers’ markets that offer fresh produce from the region.

  • Handmade Crafts and Artwork: North Canterbury is full of local artisans and crafters who sell unique and beautiful handmade products.

Local Culture and Customs of North Canterbury

North Canterbury’s culture is diverse, reflecting the Maori and European influence. Here are some of the local customs to keep in mind:

  • Respect Maori Culture: The Maori culture is an essential part of New Zealand’s heritage, and it is essential to respect it.

  • Tip in Restaurants and Cafes: Tipping is not a custom in New Zealand, but it is customary to tip in restaurants and cafes.

  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: North Canterbury is full of outdoor adventures and hiking trails, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

Best Time to Visit North Canterbury

The best time to visit North Canterbury is from September to April, with warm temperatures and long, sunny days. February to April is the best time for outdoor adventures, and September to November is the best time to see the springtime blooms.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Canterbury

Do:

  • Take Your Time: North Canterbury is a beautiful place, so take your time and enjoy your visit.

  • Respect the Environment: North Canterbury’s natural beauty is stunning, so make sure to respect the environment and take your rubbish with you.

  • Try Local Food: North Canterbury’s culinary scene is exciting and diverse, so make sure to try local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Littering is unacceptable in North Canterbury, so make sure to dispose of your rubbish properly.

  • Damage Natural Resources: North Canterbury’s natural beauty is precious, so make sure to avoid any activity that could damage it.

  • Ignore Local Customs: North Canterbury’s culture is diverse and unique, so make sure to respect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in North Canterbury

North Canterbury is generally safe, but it is essential to take standard safety precautions when travelling. Here are a few tips:

  • Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: As with any travel destination, it is essential to keep an eye on your belongings to avoid theft.

  • Be Careful on Hiking Trails: North Canterbury’s hiking trails can be challenging, so make sure to bring proper equipment and follow the safety guidelines.

  • Avoid Wildlife: North Canterbury is home to several wildlife species, including seals, dolphins, and albatrosses. It’s best to observe them from a safe distance and avoid disturbing them.

Health in North Canterbury

New Zealand has a good standard of healthcare, and visitors are entitled to free or subsidized emergency medical treatment. However, it is essential to have proper medical insurance to cover emergency and non-emergency situations.

Getting to North Canterbury: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North Canterbury

  • Christchurch International Airport: This international airport is the main gateway to Canterbury and North Canterbury.

Bus Stations Near North Canterbury

  • Christchurch Bus Exchange: This central bus station offers connections to destinations across North Canterbury.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular option for getting around North Canterbury and exploring the region’s beauty.

How to Get Around in North Canterbury

North Canterbury is a fantastic place to explore by car, bike, or foot. Here are some of the transportation options available:

  • Taxis and Shuttles: Taxis and shuttles are popular transportation options for short distances.

  • Bikes: Biking is an excellent way to explore North Canterbury’s beauty and is a popular option for visitors.

  • Car Rentals: Car rentals are a popular option for getting around North Canterbury, with several rental companies available.

Where to Go Next from North Canterbury: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North Canterbury is ideally located for exploring the South Island of New Zealand. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Kaikoura: This scenic coastal town is a must-visit destination for those who love marine life

  • Marlborough: This stunning wine region offers beautiful landscapes and award-winning vineyards.

  • Queenstown: This adventure capital of New Zealand is full of outdoor adventures, from skiing to bungee jumping.

Conclusion

North Canterbury is a stunning region of New Zealand that is full of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. From the scenic beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park to the wine tasting in Waipara Valley, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your perfect trip to North Canterbury and experience the best of this beautiful region.



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