Day 1 - Explore Oxford
Prior to leaving Christchurch, get the North Canterbury
Food & Wine Trail map available at the Christchurch i-Site Visitor Centre.
This map showcases the best cafes, restaurants and wineries to
visit along your itinerary.
Drive all the way to Oxford, an easy 50-minute
drive out of Christchurch, and enjoy a delicious
lunch at the famous Seagars at Oxford Café & Cooking
School. Wander around town through boutique stores, and then head
to Okuku Country Estate. Check-in and then relax in the pool,
sunbath on the terrace, or find a shady spot to read or just
catnap. Indulge in a dinner of local organic produce and unwind for
the rest of the evening whilst overlooking Mount Thomas and the
sunset.
Day 2 - Waipara and Hanmer Springs
Then head towards State highway 1 which leads to Pegasus
Bay Winery located in the heart of the Waipara Wine
Valley. A 100% family-owned winery, stay and sample one of many
wines crafted under two labels: Pegasus Bay and Main Divide.
Feeling refreshed, make you way to The Mud House. Try the
vast range of exciting Mud House and Waipara Hills wines in the
tasting room.
At your leisure head to Hanmer Springs and the Heritage Hanmer. Here you will
revel in the majesty of this restored turn of the century lodge,
set amongst mature trees and with the Southern Alps as your
constant backdrop.
Day 3- Hanmer Springs - Kaikoura
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the
Powerhouse Café in Hamner. Enjoy the alpine air on
a gentle village stroll or soak away your worries in the natural thermal
pools.
Mid-morning, make your way to Kaikoura - take your time and drop by a few
boutique wineries en-route. Don't miss the Kaikoura
Winery with views overlooking the ocean.
Tonight stay and dine sea-side at the Pier Hotel
Kaikoura.
Day 4 - Kaikoura and Christchurch
Begin your day with views across the bay and a light breakfast
at your hotel. Before heading back to Christchurch be sure to visit the
nearby resident seal colony.
En-route to Christchurch we suggest you make a time to stop for
lunch at the award winning Nor'wester Café in Amberley - also the
Cuisine Restaurant of the Year 2009.
Breeze back into Christchurch for the night.
Day 5 - Christchurch
Wind down after your travels by sampling some of what
Christchurch city has to offer.
Explore the many things on offer for visitors to Christchurch.
For example, take a stroll around the Botanical Gardens or see the
little blue penguins at the International
Antarctic Centre.
Then retire back to your accommodation for a well deserved
rest.
Key Links
- The Christchurch i-SITE is your ultimate source of
itinerary advice and trusted local knowledge. They offer a FREE
booking service for accommodation, activities and transport
throughout Christchurch, Canterbury and New Zealand.
- If you would like a few more suggestions on where to stop in
North Canterbury for great wine and food, click here for the North
Canterbury Food and Wine Trail
- 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.