Lily & Geoff’s guidebook
Sightseeing
Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park provides luxury apartments, motels, self-contained units and cabins as well as scenic camping site.
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Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park provides luxury apartments, motels, self-contained units and cabins as well as scenic camping site.
Located just 35 minutes from our location and 15 minutes from the city centre, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens (external link) is at the heart of the city's reputation as the Garden City.
Its impressive collection of plants provide a tranquil oasis. From the spring drifts of daffodils, spectacular summer roses and herbaceous border, stunning autumn leaf display and cosy conservatories to warm up in over winter, there's something to delight in every season.
It is a great place to walk and enjoy the fresh air.
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Izindawo zezithole zeBotanical zeChristchurch
Rolleston AvenueLocated just 35 minutes from our location and 15 minutes from the city centre, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens (external link) is at the heart of the city's reputation as the Garden City.
Its impressive collection of plants provide a tranquil oasis. From the spring drifts of daffodils, spectacular summer roses and herbaceous border, stunning autumn leaf display and cosy conservatories to warm up in over winter, there's something to delight in every season.
It is a great place to walk and enjoy the fresh air.
An unmissable Christchurch experience, the Gondola offers stunning panoramic views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour and beyond from our summit station situated atop the Port Hills. See the snow-capped Southern Alps, sprawling Canterbury Plains and the sparkling waters of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
Explore the many walking tracks amid fresh mountain air, learn about the history of the area on a Time Tunnel ride (free with your Gondola ticket or Annual Pass) and indulge in a spot of shopping at the Shop at the Top gift store. Sit back and relax with a snack from the Red Rock Cafe and take in the spectacular views.
A must-do family-friendly experience perfect for locals and visitors alike, make sure you visit the Christchurch Gondola.
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Christchurch Gondola
An unmissable Christchurch experience, the Gondola offers stunning panoramic views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour and beyond from our summit station situated atop the Port Hills. See the snow-capped Southern Alps, sprawling Canterbury Plains and the sparkling waters of Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
Explore the many walking tracks amid fresh mountain air, learn about the history of the area on a Time Tunnel ride (free with your Gondola ticket or Annual Pass) and indulge in a spot of shopping at the Shop at the Top gift store. Sit back and relax with a snack from the Red Rock Cafe and take in the spectacular views.
A must-do family-friendly experience perfect for locals and visitors alike, make sure you visit the Christchurch Gondola.
Arthur’s Pass National Park is in the heart of the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana. Its high mountains with large scree slopes, steep gorges and wide braided rivers straddle the main divide, and are the ‘back bone’ of the South Island.
Before you arrive in Arthur's Pass...
Some advice...
Local Information - Discover Arthur's Pass Brochure (7MB)
Winter Driving - Between May and October we highly recommend you carry correctly fitting snow chains for your vehicle and know how to fit them. Check the Highway Conditions before departing!
No Entry Fees - There are NO entry fees in New Zealand for entering the National Parks with a vehicle or on foot! The Visitor Centre in Arthur's Pass is also free to enter and view it's displays etc. There may be some overnight fees charged for some campsites and back-country huts.
Bring a good rain-coat - We get about 200 days of rain a year in Arthur's Pass; hopefully you do arrive on a fine day, but if you don't a good rain-coat will still allow you to explore the stunning sub-alpine forest tracks and enjoy the many water features that miraculously appear.
Buy your groceries before you arrive - Groceries can be quite expensive and be of a limited selection in Arthur's Pass village. We highly recommend you purchase groceries and tramping food requirements in a main centre (Greymouth, Hokitika, Christchurch etc) before you arrive.
Buy your portable stove fuel before you arrive - Gas & liquid fuels (methylated spirits, white spirits) are not always available in Arthur's Pass village. We highly recommend you purchase adequate supplies of stove fuel in a main centre (Greymouth, Hokitika, Christchurch etc) before you arrive.
Arriving by private car - Fill up your fuel tank in a main centre to avoid inflated fuel prices in Arthur's Pass village.
Book ahead - In the peak season, December to April it is very wise to book ahead your overnight accommodation to avoid disappointment as Arthur's Pass village has limited overnight lodgings.
Summer - Summer runs from December through March. Expect ALL types of weather, typically mild and dry up to January, then hot (35ºC) coming into February. Periods of stormy weather are common at any time.
Winter - Winter runs from June through August. Snow starts to fall in late May, with heavier falls expected in the Spring (up until October). Temperatures range from -15ºC to +10ºC, with the colder month being August.
Spring - Spring runs from September through November. Spring is notorious for instability in the mountains; it is not uncommon to experience "four seasons in one day", including snowfall. Storms would normally bring lots of rainfall and rivers can rise very rapidly into flood! Spring also brings out the first of the wildflowers in mid-November.
Water - The water in Arthur's Pass village is extremely clean, there is NO NEED to purchase or drink bottled water whilst in the village. Most rivers and streams in Arthur's Pass National Park are also very drinkable.
Roads - Roads both sides of Arthur's Pass are winding and narrow. Always keep to the left and slow down on the very tight curves. Cyclists should wear high visibility clothing!
Tramping - Before heading out into the hills firstly visit the DOC Information Centre for latest weather and track conditions. Most of our tracks require you to wear boots (and don't take them off for river crossings), hire boots ARE NOT available in Arthur's Pass village. Purchase or hire them in a main centre before your arrival. Tramps in the Arthur's Pass area tend to be more difficult and much more undeveloped than other parts of the country, there are few bridged rivers in the back country and track marking is sparton. Check the Weather Forecast before departing!
Arthur's Pass
Arthur’s Pass National Park is in the heart of the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o te Moana. Its high mountains with large scree slopes, steep gorges and wide braided rivers straddle the main divide, and are the ‘back bone’ of the South Island.
Before you arrive in Arthur's Pass...
Some advice...
Local Information - Discover Arthur's Pass Brochure (7MB)
Winter Driving - Between May and October we highly recommend you carry correctly fitting snow chains for your vehicle and know how to fit them. Check the Highway Conditions before departing!
No Entry Fees - There are NO entry fees in New Zealand for entering the National Parks with a vehicle or on foot! The Visitor Centre in Arthur's Pass is also free to enter and view it's displays etc. There may be some overnight fees charged for some campsites and back-country huts.
Bring a good rain-coat - We get about 200 days of rain a year in Arthur's Pass; hopefully you do arrive on a fine day, but if you don't a good rain-coat will still allow you to explore the stunning sub-alpine forest tracks and enjoy the many water features that miraculously appear.
Buy your groceries before you arrive - Groceries can be quite expensive and be of a limited selection in Arthur's Pass village. We highly recommend you purchase groceries and tramping food requirements in a main centre (Greymouth, Hokitika, Christchurch etc) before you arrive.
Buy your portable stove fuel before you arrive - Gas & liquid fuels (methylated spirits, white spirits) are not always available in Arthur's Pass village. We highly recommend you purchase adequate supplies of stove fuel in a main centre (Greymouth, Hokitika, Christchurch etc) before you arrive.
Arriving by private car - Fill up your fuel tank in a main centre to avoid inflated fuel prices in Arthur's Pass village.
Book ahead - In the peak season, December to April it is very wise to book ahead your overnight accommodation to avoid disappointment as Arthur's Pass village has limited overnight lodgings.
Summer - Summer runs from December through March. Expect ALL types of weather, typically mild and dry up to January, then hot (35ºC) coming into February. Periods of stormy weather are common at any time.
Winter - Winter runs from June through August. Snow starts to fall in late May, with heavier falls expected in the Spring (up until October). Temperatures range from -15ºC to +10ºC, with the colder month being August.
Spring - Spring runs from September through November. Spring is notorious for instability in the mountains; it is not uncommon to experience "four seasons in one day", including snowfall. Storms would normally bring lots of rainfall and rivers can rise very rapidly into flood! Spring also brings out the first of the wildflowers in mid-November.
Water - The water in Arthur's Pass village is extremely clean, there is NO NEED to purchase or drink bottled water whilst in the village. Most rivers and streams in Arthur's Pass National Park are also very drinkable.
Roads - Roads both sides of Arthur's Pass are winding and narrow. Always keep to the left and slow down on the very tight curves. Cyclists should wear high visibility clothing!
Tramping - Before heading out into the hills firstly visit the DOC Information Centre for latest weather and track conditions. Most of our tracks require you to wear boots (and don't take them off for river crossings), hire boots ARE NOT available in Arthur's Pass village. Purchase or hire them in a main centre before your arrival. Tramps in the Arthur's Pass area tend to be more difficult and much more undeveloped than other parts of the country, there are few bridged rivers in the back country and track marking is sparton. Check the Weather Forecast before departing!
Waimakariri Gorge bridge
KAIKŌURA
About the location
Few places on earth possess the magic of Kaikōura. Many who visit leave transformed.
It is a special part of New Zealand, imbued with powerful natural energy. A place where tectonic plates collide, towering peaks fall to the sea and the ocean currents converge.
35 abantu bendawo batusa
Kaikoura
KAIKŌURA
About the location
Few places on earth possess the magic of Kaikōura. Many who visit leave transformed.
It is a special part of New Zealand, imbued with powerful natural energy. A place where tectonic plates collide, towering peaks fall to the sea and the ocean currents converge.
Sightseeing & Adventures
Mt Hutt has been voted New Zealand’s best ski resort six years running at the World Ski Awards. A true alpine experience, with wide-open terrain, leg-burning runs, monster snowfalls, and spectacular views. You’ve not skied in New Zealand until you’ve skied Hutt!
It will take 1 hour & 55 Minutes to drive from our place to Mt Hut.
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Mt Hutt Ski Area
Mt Hutt has been voted New Zealand’s best ski resort six years running at the World Ski Awards. A true alpine experience, with wide-open terrain, leg-burning runs, monster snowfalls, and spectacular views. You’ve not skied in New Zealand until you’ve skied Hutt!
It will take 1 hour & 55 Minutes to drive from our place to Mt Hut.
Akaroa, a unique place in the world, was born of Volcanic Fire and soothed by the gentle caress of the Pacific Ocean. Subtly defined by the Maori, French and European influences of it's settlers, Akaroa epitomises classic New Zealand beauty with a twist of historical significance.
Just 75 kilometres from the city of Christchurch, New Zealand, Akaroa is a historic French and British settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano. Explore the village with its colonial architecture, galleries, craft stores, and cafés. Relax or take part in the many activities that are on offer.
Explore the dramatic outer bays and take your time to soak in the magic of this area. A wide range of accommodation is available and you will need more than a day to explore this little piece of paradise.
Akaroa is a small town and region just outside of Christchurch on the South Island. It's the only 'French' area in all of New Zealand as it was the only French settlement, and it's best known for its amazing harbour, great food and dolphin watching opportunities!
A sheltered volcanic harbour wonderland settled by the French 1840 and joined by the settlers from across the globe. Use the following information to help explore and enjoy the area and the wildlife.
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Akaroa
Akaroa, a unique place in the world, was born of Volcanic Fire and soothed by the gentle caress of the Pacific Ocean. Subtly defined by the Maori, French and European influences of it's settlers, Akaroa epitomises classic New Zealand beauty with a twist of historical significance.
Just 75 kilometres from the city of Christchurch, New Zealand, Akaroa is a historic French and British settlement nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano. Explore the village with its colonial architecture, galleries, craft stores, and cafés. Relax or take part in the many activities that are on offer.
Explore the dramatic outer bays and take your time to soak in the magic of this area. A wide range of accommodation is available and you will need more than a day to explore this little piece of paradise.
Akaroa is a small town and region just outside of Christchurch on the South Island. It's the only 'French' area in all of New Zealand as it was the only French settlement, and it's best known for its amazing harbour, great food and dolphin watching opportunities!
A sheltered volcanic harbour wonderland settled by the French 1840 and joined by the settlers from across the globe. Use the following information to help explore and enjoy the area and the wildlife.
KAIKŌURA -
Few places on earth possess the magic of Kaikōura. Many who visit leave transformed.
It is a special part of New Zealand, imbued with powerful natural energy. A place where tectonic plates collide, towering peaks fall to the sea and the ocean currents converge.
Kaikoura View
Kaikoura ViewKAIKŌURA -
Few places on earth possess the magic of Kaikōura. Many who visit leave transformed.
It is a special part of New Zealand, imbued with powerful natural energy. A place where tectonic plates collide, towering peaks fall to the sea and the ocean currents converge.
Winery & Food
Canterbury's fertile soils, warm summers and cold winters produce wines that are renowned for their intense flavours, richness and complex fruit.
https://www.newzealand.com/ca/feature/wineries-in-canterbury-and-waipara/
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Waipara
Canterbury's fertile soils, warm summers and cold winters produce wines that are renowned for their intense flavours, richness and complex fruit.
https://www.newzealand.com/ca/feature/wineries-in-canterbury-and-waipara/
It is an energetic vineyard to visit and taste the beautiful wines and food.
Their three vineyards and business are family-owned and managed by Nicholas Brown and Pen Naish. Nicholas looks after the vineyards and wines with our team. Pen runs the business and looks over the restaurant and cellar door with more fun people. They have two children who have grown up at the Home and Netherwood Vineyards. Pen’s parents and siblings are also invested in these vineyards. Pen’s father Rod is a 5th generation horticulturalist from North Otago and has provided business advice on the journey. Pen’s mum Stacey provides much cheer and family support along with Nicholas’s parents. Her siblings Jo and Cam are supporters and offer fresh perspectives.
Making wines true to their sites and inviting guests to enjoy them on our vineyards could never happen without our team. They’re surrounded by enthusiastic and talented people who appreciate their land, vines and wines. They’re learning from each other every day and grateful for what everyone brings to their vineyards and spaces.
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Black Estate Wines
614 Omihi RdIt is an energetic vineyard to visit and taste the beautiful wines and food.
Their three vineyards and business are family-owned and managed by Nicholas Brown and Pen Naish. Nicholas looks after the vineyards and wines with our team. Pen runs the business and looks over the restaurant and cellar door with more fun people. They have two children who have grown up at the Home and Netherwood Vineyards. Pen’s parents and siblings are also invested in these vineyards. Pen’s father Rod is a 5th generation horticulturalist from North Otago and has provided business advice on the journey. Pen’s mum Stacey provides much cheer and family support along with Nicholas’s parents. Her siblings Jo and Cam are supporters and offer fresh perspectives.
Making wines true to their sites and inviting guests to enjoy them on our vineyards could never happen without our team. They’re surrounded by enthusiastic and talented people who appreciate their land, vines and wines. They’re learning from each other every day and grateful for what everyone brings to their vineyards and spaces.
Neighbourhoods
The thriving country town of Rangiora serves the local agricultural and horticultural community. There’s no better place to enjoy Canterbury lamb.
Rangiora was occupied by Maori for several hundred years before the arrival of Europeans. The beauty of the area and the potential for grazing lands inspired a Canterbury surveyor, Charles Obins Torlesse, to build the first dwelling in the town in 1851.
The main industries in the area are lamb production, dairying, fruit growing and mixed farming. Southern hemisphere truffles are a new specialty crop.
The town has several interesting museums and some wonderful heritage buildings, including one of Canterbury's oldest wooden churches. The beaches of Pegasus Bay are within easy reach and the nearby rivers are popular for fishing and walking.
Functional facts: Approx. population 10,000, information centre, good range of shops and services.
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Rangiora
The thriving country town of Rangiora serves the local agricultural and horticultural community. There’s no better place to enjoy Canterbury lamb.
Rangiora was occupied by Maori for several hundred years before the arrival of Europeans. The beauty of the area and the potential for grazing lands inspired a Canterbury surveyor, Charles Obins Torlesse, to build the first dwelling in the town in 1851.
The main industries in the area are lamb production, dairying, fruit growing and mixed farming. Southern hemisphere truffles are a new specialty crop.
The town has several interesting museums and some wonderful heritage buildings, including one of Canterbury's oldest wooden churches. The beaches of Pegasus Bay are within easy reach and the nearby rivers are popular for fishing and walking.
Functional facts: Approx. population 10,000, information centre, good range of shops and services.
Canterbury is a relatively new wine region with production first established in 1978. However, the region is already making waves for its aromatic cool climate wines.
Wineries and vineyards in Canterbury spread from Waimate in the north to Cheviot in the south, with the thriving regions of Waipara Valley and Banks Peninsula in between. The best part about a Canterbury wine experience is that almost all wineries can be reached after a short drive from Christchurch.
Waipara Valley, an hour’s drive north of Christchurch, is quietly being recognised as an unsung hero of New Zealand’s wine industry. The fast-growing sub-region has a reputation for producing racy reislings and rich pinot noirs. Cellar door tastings at celebrated wineries, such as Waipara Hills, Pegasus Bay, Greystone Wines and Muddy Water offer the chance to experience the distinct influences that soil and climate have on each variety of wine.
Boutique wineries and vineyards can also be found from Banks Peninsula, on the outskirts of Christchurch, sweeping northwards towards Waipara Valley and in the Waitaki Valley, located south of the Garden City.
A wine trail in the Canterbury is incomplete without the accompanying food experience. Kaikoura, the crayfish/ lobster capital of New Zealand, dishes up succulently fresh seafood – perfect with a local pinot gris or reisling. In Banks Peninsula and Akaroa, cafes make the most of the local produce and fresh catch, served with a distinctly French influence. Elsewhere in Canterbury, you’ll find towns filled with artisan producers who make the most of the local bounty.
Canterbury
Canterbury is a relatively new wine region with production first established in 1978. However, the region is already making waves for its aromatic cool climate wines.
Wineries and vineyards in Canterbury spread from Waimate in the north to Cheviot in the south, with the thriving regions of Waipara Valley and Banks Peninsula in between. The best part about a Canterbury wine experience is that almost all wineries can be reached after a short drive from Christchurch.
Waipara Valley, an hour’s drive north of Christchurch, is quietly being recognised as an unsung hero of New Zealand’s wine industry. The fast-growing sub-region has a reputation for producing racy reislings and rich pinot noirs. Cellar door tastings at celebrated wineries, such as Waipara Hills, Pegasus Bay, Greystone Wines and Muddy Water offer the chance to experience the distinct influences that soil and climate have on each variety of wine.
Boutique wineries and vineyards can also be found from Banks Peninsula, on the outskirts of Christchurch, sweeping northwards towards Waipara Valley and in the Waitaki Valley, located south of the Garden City.
A wine trail in the Canterbury is incomplete without the accompanying food experience. Kaikoura, the crayfish/ lobster capital of New Zealand, dishes up succulently fresh seafood – perfect with a local pinot gris or reisling. In Banks Peninsula and Akaroa, cafes make the most of the local produce and fresh catch, served with a distinctly French influence. Elsewhere in Canterbury, you’ll find towns filled with artisan producers who make the most of the local bounty.
Pegasus
https://pegasus-golfclub.co.nz/course-overview/
City/town information
Ōtautahi Christchurch is a place of innovation, exploration and vibrancy. Globally connected and a magnet city for change makers, this is a city that provides an unrivalled urban lifestyle.
Exploration is part of who we are, always has been. It’s in our DNA and has shaped who we are. We are hardwired to challenge the status quo, imagine and explore what’s next, and find new ways of doing things.
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Christchurch
Ōtautahi Christchurch is a place of innovation, exploration and vibrancy. Globally connected and a magnet city for change makers, this is a city that provides an unrivalled urban lifestyle.
Exploration is part of who we are, always has been. It’s in our DNA and has shaped who we are. We are hardwired to challenge the status quo, imagine and explore what’s next, and find new ways of doing things.
A beautiful place worth visiting. It takes 1 hour & 55 minutes from Rangiora to Hanmer Springs.
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Hanmer Springs
A beautiful place worth visiting. It takes 1 hour & 55 minutes from Rangiora to Hanmer Springs.
KAIKŌURA
About the location
Few places on earth possess the magic of Kaikōura. Many who visit leave transformed.
It is a special part of New Zealand, imbued with powerful natural energy. A place where tectonic plates collide, towering peaks fall to the sea and the ocean currents converge.
35 abantu bendawo batusa
Kaikoura
KAIKŌURA
About the location
Few places on earth possess the magic of Kaikōura. Many who visit leave transformed.
It is a special part of New Zealand, imbued with powerful natural energy. A place where tectonic plates collide, towering peaks fall to the sea and the ocean currents converge.