Secrets of Hurunui: Top 6 Reasons to Have Hurunui on Your Itinerary

There’s something special about exploring a region that is seemingly untouched and unfiltered, and only a 45 minute drive north of Christchurch.

The Hurunui Region is a hidden gem in plain sight. From stunning alpine villages bordered by snow-capped mountains to rugged coastlines and endless vineyards. Here are our top 6 reasons to have Hurunui on your itinerary.

Natural Playground

Hurunui is known as one of New Zealand’s adventure tourism hubs. With bungy jumping, jetboating, quad biking, four wheel driving and horse riding among the activities on offer, adrenalin junkies will definitely get their fix. Keep the excitement going with an easy 30 minute stroll at the Forest Amble Walk in Hanmer Springs. Located in the beautiful Hanmer Heritage Forest, this is the perfect short walk for kids, with a range of large wooden art sculptures hidden along the way.

Forest Amble Walk – Photo: Visit Hurunui

Relax and Connect

When it comes to unmissable and unrivalled relaxation, Hurunui knows how to deliver. Arguably one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets and the gem of the Hurunui Region, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is something you just can’t miss. With a range of thermal and sulphur pools, these famous waters nestled amongst native gardens and mountain vistas are the ultimate relaxation destination. This extensive thermal complex also boasts a large children’s activity area with four hydroslides, a lazy river and cascade pools; including Conical Thrill, New Zealand’s largest aquatic thrill ride. If you are looking for a little more privacy, there are private pool options for you to enjoy a deeper personalised experience.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa – Photo: Visit Hurunui

Food & Wine – North Canterbury Region

Welcome to North Canterbury, home to the coolest little wine region in New Zealand. Located just 45 minutes north of Christchurch, the Waipara Valley is a food producer’s pantry in paradise, boasting award-winning vineyards & cellar door, and paddock to plate culinary experiences. The North Canterbury region offers the perfect day tour from Christchurch and unique accommodation stays should you prefer to experience pure unfiltered nature and immerse yourself in the South Island’s spectacular landscape. Be sure to check out the picturesque Georges Road Winery and let winemaker Kirk Bray take you on a journey through a wine-lovers paradise, filled with a wide selection of locally sourced cheeses, olives, charcuterie, chutney, hazelnuts, comb honey and bread. Head out to the vineyard lawn or seating and savour the delicious food and views with a glass of wine.

Waipara Wine Region – Photo: Visit Hurunui

Spectacular Scenery

Everybody knows New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, but the Hurunui region takes ‘postcard-perfect’ to another level. From one of the most photogenic towns in the country of Hanmer Springs, to the dramatic Cathedral Cliffs overlooking the bright-blue waters of Gore Bay and stunning alpine villages bordered by snow-capped mountains to rugged coastlines and endless vineyards, you’ll never want to put your camera away.

Cathedral Cliffs – Photo: Visit Hurunui

Unique Experience

Set in the stunning North Canterbury landscape overlooking the Waipara River Valley you will find Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park. Once an old abandoned Limestone quarry, this beautiful space has been turned into a stunning exhibition like no other. With an abundance of artwork both large and small on display around the park, it is the perfect setting to have a picnic and enjoy the artworks against the backdrop of surrounding Limestone hills. This magical place caters for every type of traveller, from families, large groups, couples or solo travellers, its giant steel sculptures will be a highlight of any trip.

Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park – Photo: Visit Hurunui

Connect with the Locals

Embrace a total, rural New Zealand experience with a family who has lived in Cheviot for five generations. Tawanui Farm is a 330 hectare working sheep, beef and deer farm offering the experience of a lifetime. Tawanui Farm offer ATV farm tours across their spectacular property – a great opportunity to see sheep dogs working and get to meet and hand feed the animals while learning about its farming systems and ways they look after their environment. Great for kids and adults alike, enjoy lunch on the farm using food sourced directly from the farm and the local region.

Tawanui Farms – Photo: Visit Hurunui

To incorporate one or more of these incredible experiences into your next NZ itinerary, contact us today!

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