Our Region - The Alpine Pacific Touring Route
Experience the Alpine Pacific, New Zealand’s newest touring route, 450kms of spectacular scenery winding past wineries, alpine thermal pools, wild surf, and whales. Destined to become one of the top scenic routes in the world, the Alpine Pacific is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Head north from Christchurch through the wide-open plains and surf beaches of North Canterbury. Taste the award-winning flavours of the buzzing North Canterbury / Waipara wine and food scene, before basking under the stars in Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa.
Stretch your legs and listen for bellbirds on a mountain walk, before driving through the coastal ranges to encounter whales, seals, albatross and swim with dolphins in Kaikōura. Then circle south, exploring art trails and beach-combing through secluded fishing villages, before finishing by discovering some new gems in Christchurch, New Zealand’s hub of change and creativity.
Take your time. Savour each moment.
Ōtautahi, Christchurch
Ōtautahi Christchurch, a revitalised city in the heart of Aotearoa, the gateway to New Zealand’s South Island.
Christchurch is a vibrant, energetic city where urban regeneration and creativity thrive. Picture amazing street art, innovative projects, a booming hospitality scene and state-of-the-art architecture that is changing the way the city looks, feels and functions – all the while staying true to its heritage and traditional English feel.
Waipara Wine Region
You are now entering the east of New Zealand’s South Island, an internationally renowned destination for food, wine and nature.
Immerse yourself in an abundant and truly local experience of taste, surrounded by the breathtaking panoramic vistas of North Canterbury.
The region is home to 90 + vineyards, most of them independently owned by a close-knit community of local families. With some of the country’s most diversified land formations, from the volcanic Banks Peninsula to the clay and limestone soils of the Waipara and Waikari valleys, the region lends itself to highly varied and interesting soil types. Concentrated and expressive wines are grown here – particularly Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling.
Why not drop in for a leisurely lunch on your way to Matai Peak? Two of our favourite cellar doors are Greystone and Black Estate.
Hanmer Springs
Only a 60 minute drive from Matai Peak is the picturesque alpine village of Hanmer Springs. The best place to indulge, with a range of pools, including relaxing rock pools, soothing sulphur pools, an array of water jets and bubbles - at a range of temperatures.
Sit and soak in the mineral-filled hot pools as you gaze at the giant redwood trees and mountains above, step into a world of indulgent spa treatments or unleash some energy in the freshwater leisure pools and waterslides.
Whatever you do… take your time. There’s no need to rush.
Kaikōura
Few places in the world can boast of such natural wonders as those offered by land and sea in Kaikōura. The Kaikōura township is located on a rocky peninsula, protruding from lush farmland beneath the mountains.
The region’s coastal waters are home to an amazing array of marine mammals and birdlife making it the perfect destination for marine experiences all year round. Perhaps the most famous residents are the sperm whales who share this part of the ocean with dusky dolphins, fur seals and albatross amongst others. Species such as the rare Hector’s dolphins, humpback whales and orca visit throughout the year.
Go fishing and catch your own dinner. Try out some of the excellent diving sites and surf breaks or explore the coast by kayak. Sit on the beach and watch waves rise and fall, stroll along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway or test your skills on one of Kaikoura’s excellent mountainbike trails.
