Welcome to the Mid Canterbury District

WHERE EVERY DAY IS AN ACTIVE ONE!

For the ultimate adrenalin rush, jump out of a plane at 12,000 feet, go white-water rafting on the Rangitata River or take on the mountain biking trails. The high country lakes lure avid fly fishers and there are numerous hiking options. A scenic flight provides a bird’s-eye view of the varied landscape, while horse riding trots across it. Jet boating is thrilling and Trott’s Garden is a Garden of National Significance.

You can live the country lifestyle in Ashburton, just one hour from Christchurch. Feed the ducks at Ashburton Domain or shop at Ashburton Village which is based around an historic mill house. Pull on your togs for swimming at Lake Hood or explore the Ashburton Aviation Museum. Located at Ashburton Airport, it details the town’s importance as a training base during WWII.

METHVEN & MT HUTT VILLAGE

Home to some of the best snow in Australasia and superb heli-skiing terrain. Just an hour from Christchurch, the township is also a great summer destination, offering scenic walks, fishing, four-wheel drive safaris, jet boating and hot air ballooning – a fantastic way to take in the mountains and plains landscape. There is also the quality Methven golf course.

MT SOMERS & RĀKAIA

Situated 40km west of Ashburton, tramping, mountain biking, fishing, birdwatching and ice skating are just some of the activities you can do in and around Mt Somers. Rākaia is renowned for the Rākaia River and between November and March boasts some of the best salmon fishing in the country. The giant salmon statue in Rākaia township pays homage to this distinction and is 12 metres tall!

Looking for a place to stay? Find a huge range of accommodation options, including discounts for AA Members, at travel.aa.co.nz