A HURUNUI HOLIDAY
It’s a region steeped in history, where ancient fossils have been recovered from riverbeds and limestone soil and where an abundance of locally grown produce thrives. It’s a place that offers the chance to get off the grid and the opportunity to live the high life. Only 40 minutes from Christchurch, all of this and more is within reach for a day trip, a weekend away, or even longer. The choice is yours.
FEELS CLOSER TO NATURE
The landscapes of the Hurunui are about as extensive and diverse as the region’s history. Veer off SH1 at any given point and drop into rugged beaches, like Motunau or Gore Bay. These small settlements cater to every traveller, with some incredible surf, hill walks through native bush, and even permanent table tennis tables in reserves. Back inland, devoted trails like the Hurunui Heartland Ride, Waipara Valley Vineyard Trail and St James Walkway allow for great adventures.
FEELS BOUTIQUE
There’s nothing like rifling through quaint rural boutiques and finding the ‘one’ – whether it’s homeware, local craft, art, or a piece of clothing. Be sure to set aside time to enjoy the Hanmer Springs and Amberley townships, where second-hand shops sit alongside high-end fashion. Amberley’s Bax and Berg and Ruby Six are popular destinations. The surrounding coffee shops include Little Vintage Espresso and the newly-revamped Amberley Hotel with its trendy outdoor garden.
FEELS MORE RELAXED
It’s been a quintessential part of many a Kiwi holiday since its inception over a hundred years ago. With 22 outdoor thermal pools and four aquatic slides, relaxation and fun are covered for all ages at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa. The Spa at Hanmer Springs offers an extensive range of therapeutic massage treatments, perfectly paired with a soak in the thermal pools or even one of the private pools.
FEELS WORLD-CLASS
Wind your way into the heart of the Hurunui, where world-class wines are produced from more than 90 vineyards. Best known for its aromatics, the North Canterbury Wine region enables visitors to sip on some award-winning wines in picturesque cellar doors and restaurants. Black Estate, Terrace Edge, Greystone, Pegasus Bay, and Waipara Hills are major players but are just the beginning. You can enjoy these little slices of paradise for even longer by making the most of the on-site accommodation options available at many.
FEELS LUXURIOUS
Within the alpine village, Hanmer Springs Hotel remains an iconic landmark. This historic hotel offers elegance and fine dining, within walking distance of the thermal pool complex. Described as New Zealand’s hidden mountain escape, Matai Peak is a remote and unforgettable stay. The old shepherd’s hut has been transformed into a luxurious hideaway, with the most incredible views over the Pacific Ocean coastline and native forest valleys.
FEELS EXHILARATING
See the Hurunui like never before and experience the diverse landscapes on the water or air, albeit briefly. Fifth-generation farmer Tim Loughnan has made a name for himself by taking visitors up the remote Hurunui River with Energy Jet, where you can see historic cottages and bridges and looming limestone cliffs. The Hanmer Springs Attraction jet boat promises a thrilling ride with plenty of twists and turns, travelling through narrow gorges and the Waiau River Canyon. For those wanting even more thrills, you can even try bungy jumping!