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Located as close as a quick 30-minute drive from Christchurch the Hurunui district offers diverse landscape, a rich country lifestyle and award-winning attractions.
The Hurunui’s small towns offer a window into the rich culture of New Zealand’s rural lifestyle.
Boasting an abundance of beaches, forests, parks and rivers, including more than 274 hectares of recreation reserves the Hurunui is the perfect playground. The main beaches are at Leithfield, Amberley, Motunau and Gore Bay and there are recreational lakes at Lake Sumner, Lake Taylor and Lake Tennyson.
From walks to fishing, picnics to surfing – there truly is something to suit every taste and budget.
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The easy and scenic drive around the entrie region is 370 kilometres with the towns and villages being linked by the Alpine Pacific Triangle (APT) Touring Route.
The touring route is well signposted and can be combined with other destinations as part of a complete South Island self drive itinerary.
Hanmer Springs is a great place to begin your scenic escape from the real world along the way check out our Top 10 Family Escapes for Summer.
The route boasts breath-taking and diverse landscape – from snow-capped mountains to rich ocean views, with interesting stops along the way.
The touring route is very popular with those want to experience our wine, thermal waters and hospitality.
Set yourself up for the day with a sumptuous breakfast at one of Hamner Springs’ many cafes. Then set off on one of the most scenic side roads in Canterbury, the inland road between Waiau and Kaikoura. It’s a stunning journey with rolling hills and mountains, including the Mount Lyford ski field.
After taking in the scenery along the inland road your stomach might be starting to rumble. What better way to satisfy your hunger than fish and chips or a fresh crayfish, in Kaikoura.
On your way south be sure to keep an eye out for seals along the rugged coastline.
Stop for refreshments in Cheviot, before heading to Gore Bay for a walk along the beach or to watch the locals take on the waves on their surfboards.
Next on the agenda has to be a relaxing glass of wine in the sun at a Waipara Valley winery. The North Canterbury Wine and Food Trail is the ideal way to explore the numerous wine and food options the wider district has to offer.
After such an eventful day there is only one thing that can top it all off – back to Hanmer Springs for a luxurious soak in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.
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Alpine Pacific Triangle Touring Route
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