4 Top Mid Canterbury Must-Do's

The gateway to Arthur’s Pass National Park and the Southern Alps, Mid Canterbury is impressive and compelling with its mighty plains carved by fast-flowing rivers, high country trails and ski fields. Then there are Selwyn’s rural towns, bristling with character and history.

© AA Traveller 2021

1. Devils Punchbowl Waterfall

Devils Punchbowl Falls © Department of Conservation

Stand at the base of a 131-metre waterfall and feel the spray. A refreshing experience, especially after a one-hour tramp through beech forest to get here.

2. Kura Tāwhiti/Castle Hill

A formidable collection of colossal limestone boulders, better suited in a kingdom for giants. Discover a labyrinth of explorable rocks reached via a 20-minute access track.

3. Mt Hutt Ski Area

Mt Hutt © ChristchurchNZ

Tear your eyes away from the dazzling Canterbury Plains to negotiate a wide terrain of green, blue, red and black runs across three main parks. With cafés, bars and tobogganing, this award-winning ski area is a 35-minute drive from Methven.

4. Rākaia Gorge

Experience the stunning Rākaia Gorge by walking the Rākaia Gorge Walkway. Following the rim of the gorge, this three to four-hour hike first climbs and then descends into a gully. Highlights include several glacial-carved terraces and long-forgotten entrances to coal mining tunnels.

Want more? Visit Visit https://aatraveller.co.nz/travel-guides and get planning.

Looking for a place to stay? Book accommodation at aa.travel.co.nz