Down to earth relaxed living.
The townships and rural settlements within the Hurunui emanate authenticity and relaxed living. They’re full of down-to-earth locals who love to share the hidden gems, local crafts and food and wine of the region with visitors. This is old country New Zealand charm at its best.
The Hurunui is a treasure trove of wonderfully unique rural townships each with their own personality. But one thing they share is down to earth country charm and friendly hospitality which is hard to find anywhere else.
Let us introduce you to:
Cheviot
Long coast, high hills, strong heart...
At the top of the region, the township of Cheviot is the ideal place to indulge in a wine tasting at the distinctive Mt Beautiful and peruse the eclectic mix of shops.
Stop off at the holiday settlement of Gore Bay, which has one of the safest surf and swimming beaches in New Zealand. No trip to this part of the Hurunui is complete without casting your eyes upon the majestic Cathedral Cliffs. Seriously, they’re incredible…
Info: Click or tap over each circle for more information.
Getting Here
The Hurunui district is located just a short 45 minute drive north of Christchurch International Airport.
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.
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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.
Waipara Valley
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.
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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.
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!).
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.
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.
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.
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.
Greymouth
Greymouth is a town with a history of jade hunting, gold mining and dramatic river floods.
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.
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.
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.
Kaikōura
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.
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.
Amberley
Amberley is a bustling rural town that has a lot on offer – beaches, walkways, an excellent golf course, high quality cafés and shopping. Its nearby beach is a popular spot with a seemingly endless coastline.