1. Soak in the mineral rich waters of the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, located just a 90 minute drive from Christchurch.
Situated in the beautiful alpine village of Hanmer Springs, the pool complex has 22 thermal pools, including five new Cascade pools, children’s pools, lap pool and a lazy river. There are four water slides to keep everyone entertained but if you haven’t yet given NZ’s largest waterslide, Conical Thrill a whirl, then we suggest you do, so you know what everyone’s been talking about since it opened in November last year.
2. The North Canterbury Wine region is internationally renowned, and best known for its Pinot Noir and aromatics.
Spanning nearly 200km along the eastern coastline, The North Canterbury Wine region is home to small and large vineyards, with many being family-owned and operated. A tour through the North Canterbury Wine Region allows you to sip on some of the country’s best pinot, with vistas to boot – like that of Black Estate, Terrace Edge or Greystone.
3. See Hurunui from a totally different perspective – via Energy Jet, the only jet boat operator on the picturesque Hurunui river.
This unique jet-boating experience takes you along the hidden gem that is the Hurunui River. There are various experiences to choose from but we love the two hour Ride & BBQ trip. This jetboat ride takes you to your very own secluded beach, where you can kick back and relax, before tucking into a freshly-cooked feast of local produce. For an unforgettable weekend escape, spend the night glamping, from the operator’s Tawanui Farm. Two lotus belle tents sit on rolling farmland, meaning you can wake up to 180 degree views from the inland Kaikoura mountain ranges to the North Pacific Ocean.