2 minute read
Selwyn District Must-Do's
Rākaia Gorge Walkway
Mind-blowing scenery features on this 10.4 km return walk. Allow three to four hours return, stopping at the purpose-built shelter to eat your packed lunch.
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Darfield Skiing
With six ski fields to satisfy every type of powder hound, the only thing better than the varied trails, jumps and runs is the scenery.
Craigieburn Forest Park
As well as single and multi-day hikes, there’s a network of mountain biking roads and two ski clubs.
Washpen Falls
West of Ashburton, this conservation project on a private farm comes complete with exceptional scenery, birdlife and a 2-hour loop walk to a waterfall and extensive views. A small fee is charged for access.
Cave Stream Scenic Reserve
This is an awesome walk through a 594m-long cave. Albeit wide, a head torch is necessary. Allow at least one hour and expect to get wet.
Darfield Market
Darfield is the quintessential rural community, evident at the Saturday morning farmers’ market, where fresh produce and local hospitality go hand-in-hand.
McHughs Forest Park
Located on the edge of Darfield town, the reserve’s main track is a 50-minute looped walk.
Kura Tāwhiti/Castle Hill Conservation Area
A collection of colossal limestone boulders. Discover a labyrinth of rocks reached via a 20-minute access track.
Ballooning Canterbury
Float over the Canterbury Plains on a one-hour hot-air balloon experience.
Glenlothian Farm
A petting farm where you can hand-feed animals including wallabies and rabbits. Open for summer and school holidays.
High-country Horse Adventures
Cross remote high-country terrain on a half, full or multi-day horse trail, including camping in musterers’ huts.
ARTHUR'S PASS MUST-DO'S
Arthur’s Pass Village
The gateway to Arthur’s Pass National Park, with loads of terrific walks starting from here.
Devils Punchbowl Walking Track
Devils Punchbowl Falls © Department of
Stand at the base of the waterfall and feel the spray; a refreshing experience, especially after a one-hour tramp to get here.
Fishing in High-country Lakes
The three largest mountain lakes in the area are lake Pearson, Lake Sarah and Lake Grassmere, all within 30 minutes by car from Arthur’s Pass village.
Otira Viaduct Lookout
Even if you’re not a bona fide pontist, the engineering behind this formidable piece of infrastructure will impress. A popular spot for mischievous keas, too. You have been warned!
Millennium Walk
A 10-minute walk from the park’s main Visitor Centre leads to a lookout of the Avalanche Creek Waterfall. Return at nightfall when it’s dressed in enchanting lights.
MTB Tracks
The demanding Poulter Valley Track is for seasoned mountain bikers only. If you’re after an easier peddle, take the Mt White Rd along Waimakiriri River.
Temple Basin Ski Area
Enjoy 320 hectares of powder across four basins. There are three rope tows but access to most runs requires a hike – good fitness is a virtue. A truly gnarly ski field, grooming is left to the discretion of Mother Nature.
LINCOLN MUST-DO'S
Liffey Cottage and Pioneer Hall
The 1875 cottage has been fully restored. The hall houses historic artefacts and photographs. While you’re here, walk the 45-minute Lincoln Historical Walk.
Down by the Liffey Gallery
A dinky and delightful art gallery where local artists sell their work.
Broadfields NZ Landscape Garden
Discover 3.5haof landscape gardens, complete with a formal rose garden and cricket oval. Open every Wednesday and Saturday.
Blueberry Bliss
In nearby Broadfield is a PYO blueberry orchard, open in summer.
