Winter Activities in Methven

Methven is flush with fun adventure activities. Folks come from far and wide to explore Mt. Hutt Bike Park, a downhill paradise with options for families and kids. Adrenalin junkies can choose between the crazy Dirt Banditz off-road Can-Am experience, or jet boating the Rakaia River with Discovery Jet. Who are we kidding? They’re both epic, so why choose? Do them all! Not quite so hard core? Try archery or clay bird shooting with NewZengland. Their expert coaching will have you hitting targets on your very first session.

You can’t beat the view from the top, and what better way to get there than a hot air balloon? Graeme and the team at Adventure Balloons will have you gliding in the shadows of the mountains, gazing at the ocean and patchwork paddocks of the Canterbury Plains. These guys are pros at finding sheltered spots to launch, meaning fewer cancellation days.

Mid Canterbury has a vast array of landscapes and walking is one of the best ways to explore. Washpen Falls is a favourite with incredible views of the Canterbury Plains – a popular two-hour round-trip family walk. Rakaia Gorge Walkway sidles dramatic blue water providing great photo spots. Allow an hour return to the viewpoint or 3-4 hours for the whole track. Up for a challenge? Take a scenic drive to Peak Hill. The steep uphill lung burner rewards with 360° views of the alps, braided rivers and Lake Coleridge.

Did you know Mt. Hutt Ski Field has a secret sightseeing pass you can access without if you don’t ski? It’s also got the highest altitude spa in New Zealand. For the best viewpoint in Mid Canterbury you never knew existed, just ask the awesome Mt Hutt ticket desk to hook you up.

If you do ski, you’re in for a treat. Mt Hutt’s brand new eight-seater chairlift can transport twice as many shredders and give you faster access to terrain parks and trails. From skischool and preschool for those over 6 months old, to lessons and gear hire, Mt Hutt has your day up the mountain sorted.

Get excited because the Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa have opened just in time for winter! Canterbury’s newest thermal pools provide the most luxurious apres-ski experience. The perfect spot to soak your aching muscles after a day skiing, hiking, or mountain biking. The hot pools offer a kids’ aqua play area, plunge pools as well as the unique offering of poolside canape and drinks service in the adults only area.

Methven certainly knows how to feed their hardworking local farmers and sportspeople, so if you’re after a hearty meal you’ve come to the right place. Primo E Secundo is a popular cafe with a quirky eclectic vibe. From unpretentious avocado toast, to farmhouse soups and homemade baking, you’ll find something here.

Live music and a cold beverage aren’t hard to find in Methven, but the question is…. Blue, or Brown or Irish? The Dubliner, Blue Pub and Brown Pub all have lively apres-ski along with quality tucker. If you’re looking for a quieter place to relax and eat, try Ski Time.

There is a great range of Methven accommodation, no matter your budget. In fact, as far as ski accommodation goes, it is easily the most affordable in the country. Budget travellers will receive great service and facility access at a range of places, and if you’re after a bit more space and modern comforts, you’ve got options. Check out your Mid Canterbury accommodation options here.