Day trips
13 April 2025
Experience the Alpine Pacific Touring Route
Unlock the gems of North Canterbury on a 3-day itinerary or savour the magic over 5 days.
The unforgettable Alpine Pacific Touring Route
The Alpine Pacific Touring Route highlights 450 km of spectacular coastal and alpine townships and unique environments.
Christchurch to Cheviot 150kms
Start your epic journey in Christchurch, where urban regeneration, creativity and innovation thrive.
Highlights include:
- Downhill mountain biking, zip lining or take-in city wide views from the Christchurch Adventure Park.
- Discover all there is to know about Antarctica at the International Antarctic Centre
- Get up close and personal with lions or hand feed giraffes at Orana Park.
- There really is so much to see and do in Christchurch.
Depart north from Christchurch through the wine region of Waipara, known for spicy Pinot Noirs and Rieslings. Enjoy the cellar doors on offer or indulge in a leisurely lunch.
Continue through to Cheviot, rich in history and a great place to stretch the legs. Wander or bike through the Cheviot Domain.
Looking to stay near Cheviot? Gore Bay is the perfect spot for beach combing, exploring rock pools and great swells for keen surfers.
Hot tip :
A must see in the area are the limestone formations of ‘The Cathedrals’ - have your camera at the ready!
Cheviot to Kaikōura 68kms
Cheviot to Kaikōura is arguably one of the most picturesque drives in the country.
After the Hundalee Hills, the drive is spectacular with the road hugging the shores of the Pacific Ocean. A family game of 'spot the fur seals' is a must!
Arrive into Kaikōura and be amazed at how the mountains really do meet the sea.
Highlights include:
- Whale Watch and observe sperm, blue and humpback whales in their natural habitat.
- Fly down 2.2km of incredible ziplines with EcoZip Kaikōura, soaking in an incredible bird's eye view of the mountains and sea.
- Swim with dolphins and explore albatross colonies with Encounter Kaikoura.
Hot tip:
You can’t leave Kaikōura without tasting the local delicacy, crayfish! Nin's Bin offers fresh crayfish from a caravan 20 minutes north of Kaikōura. Don’t forget to try the Seafood BBQ with treats off the grill, including paua, scallops, whitebait and more. How good!
Kaikōura to Hanmer Springs 130kms
Begin your day with a stand up paddle board, kayak or walk around the Kaikōura Peninsula – an ideal location for a spot of exercise.
Continue your journey out of Kaikōura on the Inland Road, travelling past the entrance to Mt Lyford Ski Area. Or take the Leader Road capturing both farming and coastal scenery on the way to the township of Waiau. Follow the Waiau River before reaching the Hanmer Springs turnoff.
Adventure your thing? Hanmer Springs Attractions situated on the road into Hanmer Springs will have you covered.
Hot tip:
Check into your accommodation, then head to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa for pampering and relax in the thermal pools under the stars.
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