Three of New Zealand’s popular recreational destinations, Hanmer Springs, Waipara Valley wine region and Kaikoura are linked by the Alpine Pacific Triangle touring route.
The easy and pleasant drive around the entire touring route is 370 kilometres, beginning at its southern end just 45 minutes’ drive from Christchurch International Airport or Christchurch City, and at its northern end from Kaikoura.
At almost every turn, new and exciting vistas unfold –pastoral hill country, cloud-piercing mountains, tumbling rivers, shady forests, serene lakes, surging seascapes, sculptured limestone formations and bubbling hot springs.
Along the way you will uncover delightful rural villages and towns which provide an absorbing glimpse into New Zealand’s rural lifestyle and the attractions which abound around them.
The route is well signposted and can be combined with other destinations as part of a complete South Island itinerary.
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Watch whales, snorkel with seals or tuck into a plate of crayfish
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Kaikoura is a base for wildlife experiences of all kinds – it’s also a great place to eat crayfish (in the Maori language kai means food, koura means crayfish).
The environment is truly spectacular – the village is caught between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean. In winter the mountains are covered with snow, adding to the drama of the landscape.
Kaikoura’s special talent is marine mammal encounters – whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters. Whale watching trips leave the town several times a day and the local seal colony is always entertaining. There are plenty of cafés, restaurants and shops.
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Hanmer Springs is purpose-built for rest and rejuvenation
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Situated in the foothills of the Southern Alps, the resort town of Hanmer Springs is an attractive year-round holiday destination for adventure, relaxation and indulgence.
Local activities are all about experiencing the beautiful environment. Go forest hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, skiing (in winter), bungy jumping or jet boating. A round of golf (mini or regular) is another option.
At the end of the day, head for the thermal reserve to soak in the naturally heated pools – or treat yourself to a range of indulgent spa therapies. There’s a modern shopping centre and plenty of choice when it comes to meal times.
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Wine is the reason to stay a while in Waipara. The area is known for superb Pinot Noir and Riesling
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Wine is the reason to stay a while in Waipara. The area is known for superb Pinot Noir and Riesling. You’ll also find some wonderful food experiences.
In recent years, the Waipara Valley has become a popular stop for travellers who appreciate good wine. Waipara is one of New Zealand's newest and most rapidly expanding wine areas - Pinot Noir and Riesling grapes do very well here. Some of the wineries have restaurants. Interesting forms of accommodation can be found in the area – you can even stay in a converted railway carriage. To add to your gourmet experience, there are olive groves, nut farms and fields of lavender.
Waipara is home to the historic Weka Pass Railway, which runs on specified Sundays. The train travels over 14 kilometres of the original Hurunui-Bluff Main Trunk line, built in 1882.
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