Top 3 Day Trips when Staying in Christchurch
Here is our top 3 day trips for when you visit Christchurch:
1. Akaroa
Located on the other side of Banks Peninsula and originally settled by the French, this pretty, historic seaside town offers visitors a plethora of activities, restaurants, and sights. This is a must do for anyone visiting Christchurch. There are bus options but it’s also a great drive to do if you are travelling with a vehicle. It takes around 1 hour 20 minutes each way but allow extra time for stopping off at cafe’s and galleries along the way (a stop at Little River is a must). Take a pair of comfy shoes, there’s a myriad of walks in and around the town from a gentle stroll along the quaint ‘Rue’s’ to more adventurous foray’s up the breath-taking hills behind the town. Children’s Bay Farm Walk is a must for big and little kids, the hike up the hill to the Rhino is a great way to wear off all the baguettes and fromage you may have indulged in.
2. Hanmer Springs
A picturesque alpine village in North Canterbury is a real treat any time of year! This small town is home to the famous Thermal Hot Pools, Conical Hill and a myriad of other activities. This is a popular weekend destination for Christchurch residents cover’s all the bases, there’s bungy jumping, horse trekking, jet boating and mountain biking for the thrill seekers, and a range of relaxing activities like spa’s, forest walks and boutique shopping. Travelling time is almost 2 hours each way by car and there are some great little towns to stop in along the way – we recommend grabbing an award winning pie from Amberley Pies.
3. Arthurs Pass
In winter you will find snow and in summer you will find waterfalls! This Alpine Village is on the way to Greymouth and Hokitika and is another regular day trip for Cantabrians. Surrounded by bush its a haven for hikers and hunters, you will find a range of walks suitable for everyone (Devils Punchbowl is worth all the steps!). Make sure keep an eye out for the ever entertaining New Zealand Kea (bird), they tend to pull rubber off cars and like to join you when eating! It takes 1 hour 45 minutes to drive to Arthur’s Pass.
