Famed for its ski experiences, the Ashburton District has a diverse range of
year-round activities: white-water rafting, skydiving, enjoying a
country golf course, visiting gardens of blazing blooms, uncovering
relics of aviation and transport history, hiking or mountain
biking, nature trails or enjoying traditional rural
hospitality.
A cluster of high country lakes lure avid fly fishers, a hot air
balloon or heli flight provides a bird's eye view of a patchwork
landscape, and a 4WD adventure can take you on a journey into the
high country wilderness. Heritage trails, craft markets, art
galleries, country festivals and farm tours will fill your time
with memorable New Zealand experiences.
Day 1, Terrace Downs
Less than an hour from Christchurch, enjoy an adrenalin
pumping experience you'll never forget along the spectacular Rakaia
River with Southern Alps views.
Travel to Terrace Downs High Country Resort,
a unique New Zealand destination with panoramic views of Mount
Hutt. Enjoy lunch at Terrace
Downs Tilley's Bar & Brassiere before trying your hand at a
round of golf - only one of the many activities on offer - horse
treks, blokarts, clay pigeon shooting, archery, hunting, fishing,
or a relaxing massage at the day spa.
Day 2, Methven
The ultimate way to experience this area is from the sky - don't
miss Aoraki Balloon Safaris for a
"magical" morning.
Stop for lunch at the The Last Post Café - a
beautiful historic building with a special atmosphere and excellent
cuisine.
Visit the Icehouse Gallery and Damask Boutique, with artwork
ranging from traditional landscapes to sculpture, wood carving,
photography, glass, ceramics, jewellery and much more.
There's a range of fantastic accommodation in Methven and any of
the choices add to your high country experience:
- Beluga Luxury Lodge is a beautifully restored heritage building
set in an acre of tranquil private gardens.
- Brinkley Resort offers self contained apartments ideal for a
relaxing evening.
- Ski Time Lodge & Luxury Villas offer open fires, an
extensive wine list, fantastic food and a stylish, cosy
atmosphere.
Day 3, Departing Methven
Enjoy breakfast at Primo Caffe and Secundo,
delicious food with a warm welcome.
Key Links
- Being New Zealand's largest independent car rental company,
Apex Car Rentals offers a large fleet of new and late model car
hire options. Contact Apex for car rental
information and booking.
Terrace Downs High Country Resort
Terrace Downs Resort offers in-house and casual visitors a unique one-stop New Zealand getaway destination located just twenty minutes from the Mt Hutt access road and within an easy hour's scenic drive of Christchurch International Airport.
Aoraki Balloon Safaris
Offer pristine views of Mount Cook and the National Park Mountains, plus a full 300km panorama of the entire Canterbury Plains.