Stunning South Canterbury
Bordered by the Rangitata River in the north and the Waitaki River the south, South Canterbury is home to so many iconic landmarks. Explore white-water rivers, soaring snow-capped peaks and beautiful coastline, trek through alpine wilderness, experience world-class stargazing or tour one of the many cycle trails.
South Canterbury is known for its skiing, salmon fishing, mountain biking, history and archaeological interest. Methven, Geraldine and Ashburton are the main towns in the region, with the port Timaru in the south being its only city.
The region has the best salmon fishing rivers in New Zealand, in particular, the Rangitata River. Kayaking, rafting, horse trekking and mountain biking are popular in and along the rivers.
Raft through some of the country’s most remote and scenic rivers or enjoy New Zealand alpine walking and hiking tours with Hidden Valleys.
Experience life before the car and enter a relaxed age, horse trekking through some of the most gorgeous countryside in South Canterbury.
Cycling around South Canterbury is a great way to explore the coastal, rural and river based scenery in the region. From easy tracks to difficult terrain there's a track to suit everyone.
The Opihi and Opuha Rivers, near Timaru, hold tribute to ancient occupation of these lands, with rare cave paintings and rock carvings to be found. Museums exhibit archaeology as well as the modern history of the region, which includes the early industry of whaling, followed by later activity in logging and farming.
Forest parks and river gorges in the hills at the western edge of the district provide great opportunities for camping, tramping hunting and mountain biking. There are many ski areas within easy reach, and direct access to the central Mackenzie District, with its many alpine lakes and views of the Southern Alps’ highest peaks, including Aoraki Mt Cook.
Enjoy the "Glacier to Plate" experience sampling premium chinook salmon straight to your plate from the glacial waters of the southern alps at High Country Salmon in Twizel.
With dozens of 9 and 18-hole golf courses within easy reach, the region is a golfers delight.
Peel Forest near Timaru is a popular holiday destination for many, being a wilderness area that contains a rare stand of remnant native forest, rich in ancient trees, native ferns and birdlife.
Mount Somers conservation area is also a popular destination - a region of volcanic formations, canyons, native bush, and tussock grasslands.
Such wilderness areas are ideal locations to begin challenging alpine treks on unmarked routes into the South Island’s wild interior. Activities require a high level of fitness and preparation. Alternatively, the scenery can be appreciated from the air during scenic flights. Helicopter transport provides photographers, hunters and skiers quick access to wilderness areas.
Independent travellers can enjoy visits to charming villages such as Pleasant Point, Geraldine, Temuka and Ashburton as they journey north or south through the region. Each town has its own personality and features. For example, Geraldine is known for its food, shopping and arts, while Temuka is famous for its pottery that had used local clays to manufacture crockery for generations of New Zealanders.
The town of Ashburton, by the Ashburton River, in the middle of rich, fertile plains, is an agricultural centre, and the third largest settlement in Canterbury. It has some interesting claims to fame, having a kite making factory, a Rolls Royce/Bentley restoration works, New Zealand’s only bus manufacturer, and the world’s largest spinning wheel producer.
Beaches near Ashburton are too dangerous for swimming. A man-made lake, Lake Hood, provides a place for swimming, boating and waterside recreations.
Plan your trip to South Canterbury
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