6 Top North Canterbury Must-Do's

From spa towns and wineries to outdoor adventures, stunning scenery and coastal hubs where the wildlife almost outnumbers the human residents, North Canterbury sure knows how to entertain. All that plus fresh-as seafood; be ready to be impressed.

© AA Traveller 2021

1. Ōhau Point Lookout

Off the main road with plenty of parking, observe a huge seal colony from a safe and non-disruptive place. A walkway overlooks the rocks where lively pups frolic in the pools.

2. Feed of crayfish in Kaikōura

Seafood meal Kaikōura © Graeme Murray

Kaikōura is Māori for ‘to eat crayfish’ and that you must. Nin’s Bin is the iconic roadside shack serving a raved-about catch; Kaikōura Seafood Barbecue boasts generous servings at wallet-friendly prices and Karaka Lobster is full of seaside positivity, 35km north of Kaikōura.

3. Watching whales & dolphins

Giant sperm whales are present all year round in Kaikōura. Not to be outdone, acrobatic dolphins make their presence known, along with seals, albatross and depending on the season, additional whale species.

4. Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

Spend the day lazing in open-air thermal pools, escaping to the spa and gliding down the lazy river. When excitement beckons, fling yourself down SuperBowl waterslides and winding hydroslides.

5. Weka Pass

Weka Pass Railway © Adobe Stock

Embark on a 40-minute walk (one way) to a large overhang shelter and concave rock formation featuring Māori rock art. The track is steep but rewarding

6. Waipara Valley

Waipara vineyard © Adobe Stock

The Waipara Valley is cradled in the palm of Teviotdale Hills and is where riesling and pinot noir excel; nurtured from grape to glass across several vineyards including Wairapa Hills, Greystone, Black Estate, Pegasus Bay and Terrace Edge.

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