A very must-do in New Zealand is to visit Hurunui.
Hurunui is home to many popular locations. From rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to inland alpine villages and lush green forests – the natural beauty of the area is spectacular.
When you visit Hurunui, you will be in an area that is rich in accommodation, activities and eateries and it all starts from just a 45 minute drive from Christchurch.
Wine & Food – The Hurunui has been called New Zealand’s pantry in the past. It produces some of the country’s best food, wine and beer. Waipara Valley is a food and wine lover’s paradise with dozens of vineyards, incredible winery restaurants and a number of quite unique food producers including olive and truffle growers along with an amazing venison farm. Some great reasons to visit Hurunui. Read more
Ski & Snowboard – The Hanmer Springs Ski Area has some beautifully groomed trails and even offers accommodation on the mountain. It’s suited for beginners and advanced skiers and its Poma lift is the longest in the Southern Hemisphere at 807 metres.
Mt Lyford boasts the Terako Ski Area which is described as sunny and family friendly. Its Wild Ride Terrain Park has plenty of challenges too. Read more
Hanmer Forest (Short Walks)
- Conical Hill Walk – Arguably the town’s most popular short walk Conical Hill was developed as a trail to reach the 550m summit and the magnificent panorama of the Hanmer Basin.
- Woodland Walk – The walk is a delight, mostly flat, ideal for families, and can be done as a complete loop from Jollies Pass Road carpark.
- Majuba Walk – Majuba takes its name from Majuba Hill in South Africa where in 1881 a British force, including Hanmer men, was defeated by Boer troops.
- Dog Stream Reserve – It’s an especially pretty walk to take during autumn when the blush of autumnal colours are at their peak.
- Upper Dog Stream Track / Jolliffe Saddle Track / Timberlands Trail Circuit – A varied walk with many options.
- Nature Trail – The trail is easy and soft underfoot with rafts of mosses growing at trackside beneath the trees.
- Fir Trail – The trail undulates through the plantations and has some good views. It links with Waterfall and Jolliffe Saddle tracks.