Colour Me Autumn

Hanmer Springs screams autumn! Beautiful coloured trees, a touch of early snow on the mountains and lovely mild days. Make sure to have the camera handy, as photo opportunities are waiting for you around every corner.

Geraldine is an idyllic country town. Surrounded by paddocks with mountain ranges in the background, it's the perfect setting for the ultimate autumn shot. In the middle of the town lies the square with little shops and cute cafés. From Geraldine it's only a short drive to Peel Forest, the home of ancient trees and wildlife.

Twizel is the ultimate autumn paradise. Located right in the heart of the high country, the town offers stunning mountain and lake views. Lake Ruataniwha, Lake Ohau and Twizel River are the perfect photo locations with coloured trees mirroring, deep blue lakes and rivers and a dusting of snow on top of the mountains.

On the other side of the Port Hills lie Lyttelton, Governors Bay and Diamond Harbour. The drive from Lyttelton to Diamond Harbour around the bays is a great experience in autumn. On one side the green water of the sea, on the other side picturesque countryside. A break at Orton Bradley Park and a short walk along the creek up to the Big Rock is ideal to take in the beautiful view. Hagley Park is a must for seeing the autumn leaves, especially at golden hour. The park becomes bathed in golden hues that's truly magical. 

Every outdoor enthusiast will know Kura Tāwhiti/Castle Hill very well! The area is on the way to Arthur's Pass and the home of beautiful larch trees and a famous rock formation. With the mountain range in the background, it's the perfect location to take stunning pictures.

Waipara Valley offers the whole autumn package: Good wine and beautiful countryside. Picture-perfect vineyards are embedded in rolling hills surrounded by vast open skies. With this setting taking great pictures is easy.