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Ashburton Must-Do's
Lake Hood
Once you've made the most of every water sport on this man-made lake, retire to The Lake House for a glass of wine on the deck. The American barbecue will fill a gap left by exertion.
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Ashburton Aviation Museum
Located at Ashburton Airport, this impressive museum details the town’s importance as a WWII training base and displays the era’s rarest aircraft.
Trott's Garden
In between bold splashes of colour and immaculate lawns, look out for unexpected delights such as The Knot Gardens (created from expertly trimmed hedges), pheasant aviary and nonchalant cats. Open daily. $5 for adults and free for children under 12 years.
Ashford Village Shops
Explore a charming collection of stores based in and around an historic mill house and surrounded by gardens.
Ashburton Art Gallery
A vibrant and welcoming community facility devoted to innovation and experimentation in the arts. Great exhibitions with lots of hands-on projects and activities for kids.
Ashburton Domain
Within these extensive green grounds, sports of every ilk are played, from cricket to croquet. There's a shaded summer paddling pool, modern playground, ponds, gardens and a free-wheelin’ track for skaters and cyclists.
Ashburton Domain © Canterbury Tourism
RĀKAIA RIVER MUST-DO'S
Rākaia Salmon Statue
Stop for a snap with the giant salmon statue. Stay for the playground, with its tractor and human-sized hamster wheel.
River Fishing
One of Aotearoa’s largest braided rivers boasts some of the best salmon fishing, most fruitful between November and March.
Rākaia River Terrace Walk
Just outside Rākaia town, it’s 45 minutes one way and dog-friendly, too.
Jet-Boat Tours
Career down the milky-blue waters of Rākaia Gorge, carving up the waterways under the presence of snow-licked mountains.
