Mid-Canterbury – a must for any South Island Trip

from Canterbury Today Magazine Issue 162

by Academy Group

BARK Kennels – the country club for dogs

Mid-Canterbury boasts a wealth of wonderful family-friendly experiences – so here are 10 key experiences the region offers suitable for any trip.

Top 10 Key Experiences 1. Adventure Ballooning

Take a scenic balloon flight over the Canterbury Plains, including a champagne breakfast on landing.

2. Mt Hutt Ski Area

Take to the slopes at the world-renowned Mt Hutt Ski Area, with its great natural snow and one of the longest ski seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. The #1 New Zealand Ski Field for six years running: 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.

3. Ashburton Aviation Museum

Do not miss a visit to the Ashburton Aviation Museum, one of New Zealand’s finest. Exhibiting the only Harrier jump-jet in the Southern Hemisphere.

4.Hakatere Conservation Park

Venture into the high country and explore our outdoor recreational paradise – be it biking or walking the home of Mt Sunday, a Lord of the Rings film location.

5. Discovery Jet

Jet boating in the stunning Rakaia Gorge, learning about the geography whilst doing 360-degree spins.

6. Dirt Bandits Cam Am Trails

Experience the awesome adrenaline rush with Dirt Bandits, New Zealand’s Premier UTV motorsport experience.

7. Golf

Mid-Canterbury is your gateway to playing on six of the finest golf courses.

8. Erewhom Station and Mt Sunday Experience

Erewhom Station is a picturesque 3,500-acre farm nestled in the Southern Alps, providing a magnificent backdrop for the Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers movie. Edoras the capital of Rohan is located on Mt Sunday. The station offers a one-hour wagon ride with Clydesdale horses.

9. Ashburton Domain

Thirty-seven hectares of beautiful open space, lawns and gardens. It is the jewel in the Ashburton crown.

10. Trotts Community Garden

A recognised Garden of International Significance having been awarded six stars by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.

Coming events

Peak to Pub – Mt Hutt

18th September 2021

Mt Hutt’s Peak to Pub is not just for the hard core, this race is achievable for anyone who is interested in challenging themselves physically and mentally. From New Zealand’s top multi sporters to enthusiastic amateurs seeking fun and personal triumph everyone is sure to have a blast.

Boulevard Day – Ashburton

27th September 2021

Ashburton Boulevard Day is in it 45th year encouraging visitors to Ashburton to try local style and cuisine.

The Salmon Run – Rakaia

16th October 2021

The Salmon Run is a multi-sport event, a bike, kayak, run completion, short and long duathlons, half marathon or a mountain.

Adventure Balloons NZ

SPECTACULAR SCENERY

From the Southern Alps of New Zealand across the Canterbury Plains and beyond…

Phone. 03 302 8172 Email. info@adventureballoonsnz.com www.adventureballoonsnz.com

The Flight

About Your Experience

Flights take place early morning, when the weather conditions are calm and stable, and so suitable for balloon flights. We meet in Methven town centre before you travel a short distance with us to one of our launch sites, which will be chosen to give you the very best flight experience depending on the weather conditions on the day. Transport can also be arranged to and from Christchurch if required, please let us know when booking your flight. You will be able to get involved and help our crew with setting the balloon up ready for flight and packing away afterwards. The actual flight will last for around an hour, when you’ll enjoy the unique and very special experience of a hot air balloon flight flying at up to 6000ft, with superb long distance views across Canterbury Plains and the dramatic Southern Alps including Mount Cook and beyond, as well as the Rakaia Gorge, and its glacial river as it flows out towards the coast. After we’ve landed we’ll enjoy a celebratory drink before transporting you back to Methven.

Flight Information

Flights take place early mornings, when the weather conditions are stable. We will transport you from the meeting point in Methven to the launch site, and also back after your flight. We can also arrange transport to and from Christchurch if required, please let us know when booking your flight. Allow up to 4 hours for the whole experience. Find out more about where to stay, eat, drink and other things to do in and around Methven and the Canterbury Plains. Your Safety As with any air operator, we are regulated by the CAA, including our pilots and equipment which are all required to undergo annual tests. You will receive a full safety briefing from your pilot before your flight. We will only fly if the weather conditions are suitable to ensure a safe flight, and if not suitable the flight will be cancelled. If this happens then you will have the opportunity to then reschedule your flight.

Experience Mid Canterbury

Your South Island experience begins within just an hour’s drive from Christchurch International Airport, whether you’re driving north, south, east, or west, Mid Canterbury is the perfect stop.

The region is home to a huge number of activities and attractions in Ashburton (Hakatere), Methven (Piwakawaka), Rakaia, Mt Somers (Te Kiekie), Staveley, Hinds, and Mt Hutt. Stay as long as you can to explore Mid Canterbury to the fullest. With stunning snowcapped mountains as its backdrop and boarded by impressive braided rivers and crystal clear lakes, the scenery is so magnificent it will take your breath away. Experience Mid Canterbury's dining options from relaxed cafes and bars to romantic dining. Our diverse region has something to satisfy all tastes and budgets. Mid Canterbury is one of the great secrets of New Zealand, with an inspiring range of both energetic and relaxing activities. Join us for a journey of exploration and exhilaration. Whether it’s winter or summer, there is always loads going on around the region. From adventure races and snow events to music and food festivals, it’s worth taking a look at what’s on when you’re travelling through. Play While visiting our region you can be skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, skydiving, jetboating, enjoying country golf, visiting gardens, uncovering relics of aviation and transport, or walking the nature trails. There is plenty of things to do in Mid Canterbury. We have everything the South Lakes District have except for bungy jumping and swing for a better price point and accessibility. Stay Whether you are visiting Mid Canterbury for a holiday, attending an event, or spending your last nights before flying out from Christchurch Airport, there is plenty of quality accommodation options for all, combined with friendly service. Want the romance of the real New Zealand? You can stay in luxury lodges or boutique accommodation deep in the heart of the hunting and fishing territory of the Southern Alps, where you go to bed and wake to spectacular views that you didn't know existed. Or perhaps your choice is to be closer to cafes, restaurants and other people - then you can chose from holiday parks with cabins, motels, hotels, bed and breakfast, resorts or farmstays, and campervans are always welcome in Mid-Canterbury. Wine & Dine You'll enjoy great dining options at many cafes and restaurants throughout the region. From the classic kiwi takeaway or New Zealand country pub meal, to delicious first-class fare, Mid Canterbury is an exciting gourmet destination. Enjoy local products such as beef, lamb, venison and salmon, complemented by award winning New Zealand wines and craft beers. By going direct to the source, you'll access some of the area's freshest produce, finest foods and homemade treats. You'll also get the lowdown from the passionate people behind these delights. The family friendly destination Mid Canterbury is an amazing familyfriendly place. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or a few days, you’ll find the best family-friendly restaurants, some with kids’ activities and play areas, as well as those that have kids eat free options. Check out Mid Canterbury's amazing Kids 4 Free offer.