Canterbury North

Up North

Kaikoura

Kaikoura is situated on the northeastern coast of Canterbury, an ocean town with stunning alpine views. As a result, outdoor lovers flock to the area to enjoy a range of activities such as dolphin and seal swimming, whale watching, walking, golf, diving and snorkeling, 4WD-ing, and more. The history of the Kaikoura draws attention from its visitors, and the area’s whaling history and Maori and European roots can be studied at Kaikoura Museum and the historic Fyffe House.
Kaikoura’s coastal location celebrates an abundance of crayfish, enjoyed by many with a
glass of award winning wine from the Kaikoura Winery.
Web: www.kaikoura.co.nz


Waipara Valley

One of New Zealand’s newest and fast growing wine regions, Waipara Valley is a 40minute drive north of Christchurch and is popular for its Pinot Noir and Riesling. It’s not all about wine though, with olives, nuts and lavender also making up part of the town’s produce output. Enjoy a little history at the
Weka Pass Railway, or visit the Waipara Valley farmer’s market held every Sunday from November until April/May, selling everything from lamb through to vegetables, olive oils, eggs, honey, preserves, bread and coffee.
Web: www.waiparawine.co.nz


Hanmer Springs

Famed for its thermal pools and spas, the picturesque alpine resort village of Hanmer Springs is the place to go to relax, unwind and spoil yourself. It’s not all about indulging though, with plenty to do for the active traveler such as forest hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, skiing, bungy jumping or jet boating. Even the adventure junkie will agree that soaking weary bones in the thermal pools at the end of long day of action is the best way to relax!
Web: www.hanmersprings.co.nz

Amberley & Leithfield

Amberley is where the local farmers and wine growers come to replenish their goods. It’s also popular for golf and fishing whilst boasting a nice selection of cafes and craft shops. Mountain views can be enjoyed from the north and south and the beach is just down the road. Amberley is a beautiful country town and visitors can dapple in horse riding, surfcasting, wine tasting, river fishing, farm visits and garden tours.
Leithfield is a short driving distance from Amberley. This small village is one of the oldest townships in North Canterbury and boasts a fantastic country pub where you can meet the locals and city people at the same time.
Both areas are surrounded by excellent walking tracks including the Kowai River Walk, the Amberley Beach Walkway and Mt Grey.
www.fourcorners.co.nz/new-zealand/amberley/


Kaiapoi

Less than a half an hour north of Christchurch is the river town of Kaiapoi, a great spot for water lovers as the Kaiapoi River runs through the town. The Waimakariri River and Pegasus Bay coastline are also nearby, making boating, water sports, fishing and river carnivals all popular activities. The historic MV Tuhoe Rive cruise is a fun outing or get active on one of Kaiapoi's walkways and cycling tracks. There are beautiful picnic spots or just enjoy picking up some souvenirs from one of the town’s shops and don’t forget to pop in for a bite one of the local cafés and restaurants.
Web: www.fourcorners.co.nz/new-zealand/kaiapoi


Oxford

Taking on the same name as the prestigious English university, Oxford lies just north of Christchurch and is close to many good outdoor travel destinations. History buffs will take pleasure in a visit to the Oxford museum and jail hours, whilst those with a green thumb can enjoy a local garden tour and animal lovers can saddle up and go horseriding. Wine lovers will find pleasure at Melness Winery.
Web: www.fourcorners.co.nz/new-zealand/oxford