Visit Hurunui
There’s a special vibe about the Hurunui Region which sets it apart from anywhere else in the country. Indeed, it’s fair to say that life changes when you enter the district.
A place where rugged coastlines and breathtaking clifftops meet lush forests and alpine retreats. The Hurunui district will thrill and surprise you … offering everything you expect in a South Island holiday, and more.
The list is here!
150 Reasons to visit
With your help, we’ve created an epic list of 150 reasons to visit our incredible region.
You offered up your favourite things and now we want to share the list with the rest of the country and the world!
We've split the list into categories so you can choose an adventure or relaxing holiday that suits you.
Info: Click or tap over each circle for more information.
Getting Here
You’ll find the Hurunui region just a short 45-minute drive from Christchurch. A great way to see the most of this beautiful region is to head along the Alpine Pacific Touring Route. A 450km journey through the Hurunui heartland, Waipara Valley, Hanmer Springs, and Kaikoura.
Gore Bay
Gore Bay along Cheviot's coastline is one of new Zealand's safest surfing beaches, while the Gore Bay Tourist Drive takes you past the spectacular Cathedral Cliffs. This is one of the region's most photogenic attractions.
Greta Valley
The Greta Valley is a relaxed farming community where you can really get away from it all. With green rolling hills and a uniquely kiwi way of life, you can't help but relax here.
Hanmer Springs
New Zealand's alpine spa village is a haven of both relaxation and adventure. For more than a century visitors have sought the rejuvenating tonic of this beautiful town.
More Info
Hawarden
Hawarden is home to the famous Flaxmere Gardens, its also the gateway to the pristine high country Hurunui lades, which reward those who make the journey with unbridled landscapes and pure New Zealand vistas.
Hawarden & Waikari Map
Kaikoura
This is a place like nowhere else in the world - where mountains spectacularly meet the sea. Magnificent wildlife is plentiful and exciting adventures and fascinating history await you. This is New Zealand’s eco-tourism capital and under three hours' drive from Christchurch.
Christchurch Airport
The primary gateway to the South Island, Christchurch Airport has an award-winning terminal which attracts more than 6.5 million passengers a year, connecting Christchurch with the rest of the world. There's plenty of places to eat, shop and relax while you await flights.
Christchurch Airport
Motunau Beach
The coastal settlement of Motunau Beach is a great place to retreat and enjoy the quiet seaside ambience and local seafood. The much sought after blue cod is among the catch on offer so the beach is a popular fishing spot, while the experienced diver can enjoy an abundance of crayfish.
Rotherham
The township of Rotherham was established in 1877 to attract labourers to the district. Keep an eye out for the historic Watters Cottage, built by John Watters, an Irish expert wool presser in 1878, it’s been restored as a memorial to the Amuri farmers and station workers.
St James Conservation Area
The stunning St James Conservation Area is a 78,000 hectare reserve with exceptional natural features including glaciated valleys, streams, wetlands, lakes and picturesque tarns.
Waiau
Waiau is a picturesque village with a rich history and a love of the outdoors. Well known as a great holiday spot for families, at its heart is a charming village green which incorporates an historic jail and some village stocks (great for a photo stop!).
View the Waiau map here
Waikari
Travelling via State Highway 7 to Waikari is one of the most scenic road trips in New Zealand. Waikari offers panoramic views of the Puketeraki and Kaikoura ranges and is the stopping point for the Weka Pass Railway.
Waikari & Hawarden Map
North Canterbury Wine Region
The North Canterbury wine region is an Aladdin’s cave of geologically rich areas brimming with limestone, moa bones and fossils. Award-winning wineries, stunning scenic walkways and delicacy-producing farms are all here.
More Info
Cheviot
Cheviot is known to most as being a great place to stop on your way elsewhere. There are some fabulous places to eat, drink, get supplies, shop and fill up your car. There's a lot more to Cheviot than you may have realised so it is well worth taking the time to visit for longer.
Christchurch
Christchurch is a vibrant, energetic city where urban regeneration and creativity thrive. Picture amazing street art, innovative projects, a booming hospitality scene and state-of-the-art architecture that is changing the way the city looks, feels and functions.
Culverden
Culverden is set in the middle of the wide Amuri Basin surrounded by a stunning mountain backdrop. This delightful country township offers a variety of bed and breakfasts, nature walks and farm-stays, making it an ideal setting for travellers seeking a rural New Zealand experience.
Mt Lyford
Beautifully constructed to blend with the environment and surrounding native bush, the heart of the village is Mt Lyford Lodge with an excellent restaurant, bar and a range of great accommodation. Mt Lyford’s ski field has slopes for all abilities.
Hurunui
Travel along State Highway 7 and you'll soon come across the Hurunui Hotel and village. Once a reprieve for weary sheep drovers travelling to Christchurch, it remains an iconic landmark in the region today.
Visit Hurunui, North Canterbury
You’ll find the Hurunui region just a short 45-minute drive from Christchurch. A great way to see the most of this beautiful region is to head along the Alpine Pacific Touring Route. A 450km journey through the Hurunui heartland, Waipara Valley, Hanmer Springs, and Kaikoura.
Upcoming Events
Amberley Farmers Market
Amberley Farmers Market is an authentic farmers market with a superb range of locally grown, quality produce & artisan products. Read More
Hanmer Springs Village Market
Held every Saturday: 9am till 2pm, unless wet. Read More
Hanmer Holiday Homes Alpine Marathon
The Alpine Marathon, Half Marathon and 10km is back for 2023! Read More
Amberley Beach Surfcasting Competition
Amberley District Lions will be holding the 29th annual Surfcasting Competition at Amberley Beach this year. Read More
Pegasus Bay Vine Run
Pegasus Bay Vine Run is back! Read More
The Graveler
The Graveler is a 132km unique bike race held in New Zealand that offers a distinct experience for participants. Read More
Hurunui Stories
More to do in Hurunui
July 29, 2022 by Digital Marketing and NZ Herald
5 Reasons to visit Hurunui
May 23, 2022 by Finding Alexx and Hurunui Generic
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa named among country’s best for sustainable tourism.
May 2, 2022 by Hurunui Generic
Our favourite autumn walks in Hanmer Springs
Discover these great hidden gems
February 25, 2022 by Hurunui Generic
