Trail

The South’s Best Low-Key Rides

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/thesouth-2a4d.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> For those who prefer their trails scenic, soulful, and not overly engineered — the Central South has plenty worth pedalling. </paragraph> <paragraph> Start with <bold>Christchurch’s Port Hills</bold>. The <bold>Rapaki Track</bold> or <bold>Summit Road</bold> gives you coast-to-alps views with enough gradient to make the coffee taste better afterwards. Local tip: sunrise is something else up here. </paragraph> <paragraph> Further inland, <bold>Castle Hill</bold> offers surreal limestone boulders and quiet alpine roads that feel made for two wheels. You’ll likely have the place to yourself — apart from the odd climber or sheep. </paragraph> <paragraph> On the <bold>West Coast</bold>, the <bold>West Coast Wilderness Trail</bold> mixes gravel, bush, rivers, and history. It’s the full package — swing bridges, glow worm tunnels, and zero traffic lights. Take your time. Or don’t. Just enjoy </paragraph> <paragraph> Near <bold>Kaikōura</bold>, the <bold>Mt Fyffe Track</bold> is a steady, satisfying climb if you’re into gravel and lung work. Bonus: panoramic views that don’t feel real. </paragraph> <paragraph> And in <bold>Hurunui</bold>, the <bold>St James Cycle Trail</bold> near <bold>Hanmer Springs</bold> is wild and wide — high-country riding through valleys, rivers, and tussock flats. Wrap it up with a soak in the hot pools. You’ve earned it. </paragraph> <paragraph> None of these are technical. All of them are memorable. Bring a mate. Bring snacks. Ride slow. Ride happy. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">Central South Island</item> <item key="Itinerary">Half Day to Multi-Day</item> <item key="Distance">Varies (Multi-region)</item> <item key="Hours">Always Open</item> <item key="Price">Free (Trails)</item> </list>

Wellness

Maruia Hot Springs

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/maruiaho-6b0.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> Maruia Hot Springs is an award-winning natural hot springs, day spa and wellness destination tucked among the snow-capped Southern Alps on the picturesque Lewis Pass national reserve. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast</item> <item key="Distance From CHC Airport">2 hrs 40 mins</item> </list>

Trail

West Coast Wilderness Trail

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/westcoas-a19.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> Wind your way through ancient rainforests, along glacial rivers, around moody lakes and across some downright cracking wetlands. You can ride the full 133 kms at once - across four days - or just nab the odd day-trip. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast</item> <item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs 30 mins</item> </list>

Trail

Forest & River Walks to Get Lost In

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/forestri-bdf.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> If you like your nature damp, quiet, and a little bit moody — these are for you. </paragraph> <paragraph> The <bold>Rakaitane Walk</bold> near <bold>Lake Brunner</bold> is an easy 45-minute loop through mature podocarp forest. It crosses a suspension bridge over the Arnold River, where you’ll get panoramic lake views and those glassy reflections that make you pause mid-step. </paragraph> <paragraph> For something a bit more vertical, the <bold>Carew Falls Track</bold> climbs gently through mossy forest to a high waterfall that throws cool mist into the air on a hot day. Immense granite boulders act as lookouts. Great for feet-dangling and snack breaks. </paragraph> <paragraph> These walks are short, sweet, and best taken slow. No crowds. Just birdsong and bush. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">Lake Brunner, West Coast</item> <item key="Itinerary">45 Mins – 1 Hour</item> <item key="Distance">3 hrs from Christchurch</item> <item key="Hours">Daylight Hours</item> <item key="Price">Free</item> </list>

Nature

West Coast: The Most Photogenic Place You’ll Ever Get Dirty

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/westcoas-349c.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> The West Coast is a contradiction in the best way. It’s all misty rainforests, mirror lakes, wild beaches, and glacier-fed rivers — and yet nothing feels curated. </paragraph> <paragraph> From the West Coast Wilderness Trail to the remote magic of Lake Daniell or Carew Falls, this region rewards those who get muddy. Pack the boots. Bring a spare towel. Don’t expect to keep your socks clean. </paragraph> <paragraph> Photographers love it here — for the contrast, the mood, and the light. But you don’t need a camera to feel it. You’ll come for the scenery. You’ll stay for the feeling that the wild is still in charge. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast Region</item> <item key="Itinerary">Recommended 3–5 Days</item> <item key="Distance">~3 hrs from Christchurch</item> <item key="Hours">Always Open</item> <item key="Price">Free (Nature Access)</item> </list>

Culture

Paparoa Experience

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/paparoae-6ec.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> The Paparoa Experience blends Māori Culture with history & geology - captivating visitors by giving them an immersive insight to the history of the Paparoa National Park. Crafted by Gibson Group, the experience is executed through innovative technology, delivering an extraordinary experience to visitors. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast</item> <item key="Distance From CHC Airport">4 hrs</item> </list>

Wellness

Hot, Cold & Wild

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/hotcoldw-4ef.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> This isn’t wellness with whale music and spa slippers. It’s wild swims, forest saunas, and stillness that sneaks up on you. </paragraph> <paragraph> In <bold>Kaikōura</bold>, the <bold>Sauna Project</bold> sits beachside — minimalist, cedar-clad, and perfectly placed for an ocean plunge. Inland, the <bold>Cow Stream hot pools</bold> located in Hurunui are remote enough to feel like a secret (BYO towel, leave the schedule behind). </paragraph> <paragraph> On the West Coast, <bold>Maruia Hot Springs</bold> mixes outdoor bathing and comfortable accommodation with pure alpine quiet — a proper reset. And if you’re heading to the <bold>West Coast</bold>, the <bold>Rainforest Retreat</bold> is a luxury stay amongst the trees, with the kind of hush you can’t fake. </paragraph> <paragraph> It’s warmth, cold, and contrast. Exactly how it should be. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">Kaikōura, Hurunui & West Coast</item> <item key="Itinerary">Full Day or Overnight</item> <item key="Distance">Varies (Multi-region)</item> <item key="Hours">Varies by Venue</item> <item key="Price">Free to $$$</item> </list>

Nature

Pancake Rocks & Blowholes

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/pancaker-8ea.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> Rising from the sea, the Pancake Rocks are part of a heavily eroded limestone area where the sea bursts through underwater channels and escapes via vertical blowholes. The easy Pancake Rocks Track is a 20-minute loop but double (or triple) that to leave enough time to view the blowhole action. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast</item> <item key="Distance From CHC Airport">4 hrs</item> </list>

Trail

5 cycling trails you can do in a long weekend

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/5cycling-ffa.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> You don’t need weeks off or race legs to experience the Central South by bike. All you need is a long weekend, a decent set of tyres, and a willingness to take the scenic way round. </paragraph> <title> St James Cycle Trail (Hurunui) </title> <paragraph> Wide valleys, braided rivers, tussock stretching to the horizon. The St James Cycle Trail is something else. Based near Hanmer Springs, this is classic high‑country riding, stretching across 60-68 kilometres. The gradients are relatively kind, and the space is vast. Choose to break up your ride over two or three days, staying along the way. Finish with a soak in the hot pools (that’s non‑negotiable). </paragraph> <title> West Coast Wilderness Trail (West Coast) </title> <paragraph> This one is a true journey through the wilderness. Stretching from Greymouth to Ross, the West Coast Wilderness Trail covers 140 kilometers, stringing together rivers, rainforest, swing bridges, and scenery that feels wildly untouched. It’s mostly gravel, mildly adventurous and incredibly varied. Set aside three to four days to do it properly. You don’t want to rush this one. </paragraph> <title> Port Hills & Summit Road Loops (Christchurch) </title> <paragraph> Don’t be fooled by how close this is to the city, the riding up here feels a world away. The Port Hills is a wonderland of trails and steady climbs, rolling ridgelines and alpine views spanning wide along the horizon. Link Rapaki Track, Summit Road, and a few gravel detours to build a weekend of flexible loop rides, each ranging from 40-70 kilometre trails. </paragraph> <title> Alps to Ocean (Mackenzie to Ōamaru) </title> <paragraph> Offering the ultimate collection of vast landscapes, this Alps to Ocean trail truly delivers. The full trail runs from Aoraki Mt Cook to the Pacific Ocean and is one of the country’s longest at over 300 kilometres, but a long weekend is perfect for tackling one of the nine sections. Most riders focus on the Mackenzie Basin through to Twizel or Ōmarama, or all the way to the coast in Ōamaru. If you are keen to go all in, set aside five to seven days. </paragraph> <title> Kaikōura Coastal Trails & Inland Climbs (Kaikōura) </title> <paragraph> Kaikōura trails are exactly as you’d imagine. Full of coastal views, wildlife spotting and rugged beauty synonymous with the seaside town. The Kaikōura Trail allows you to customise your journey to suit. Roll along the coast with seals for company, or head inland in search of mountain climbs. The Mt Fyffe Track is another popular option if you’re keen on a longer climb, but there are plenty of gentler loops around the peninsula that suit a relaxed two‑day ride. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">South Island (Multi-region)</item> <item key="Itinerary">2–4 Days (Long Weekend)</item> <item key="Distance">Varies</item> <item key="Hours">Daylight Hours</item> <item key="Price">Free (Trail Access)</item> </list>

Adventure

Tauranga Bay surfing

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/tauranga-78d.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> Tauranga Bay is one of the South Island’s most consistent and accessible surf spots. Exposed to powerful Tasman Sea swells, it delivers reliable waves year-round. With a wide sandy bay, dramatic coastal scenery and plenty of space to spread out, Tauranga Bay suits everyone. If you’re new to surfing, West Coast Surf offers lessons to help you get started safely, or simply dive in yourself and embrace the raw West Coast energy that makes this spot so special. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast</item> <item key="Distance From CHC Airport">4 hrs 30 mins</item> </list>

Itinerary

The perfect 5 day Central South Loop

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/theperfe-cb3.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> Have five days to experience the Central South? No problem. This loop begins and ends in Christchurch, flowing north to hot pools and seal-lined coast, then inland through lakes and mountains, before returning through vast farmland and sleepy towns. Detours are encouraged. </paragraph> <title> Day 1: Christchurch to Kaikōura </title> <paragraph> Start in Christchurch, home to the South Island’s largest airport, this urban hub is New Zealand’s newest city and perfect home base. When you’re ready to hit the road, snacks and coffee in hand, head north through the Waipara wine region, braided rivers and open farmland. </paragraph> <paragraph> About 3 hours later, Kaikōura is a welcomed first stop. Perched between ocean and mountains, there’s nowhere else quite like it. </break>Spend the afternoon getting to know the coast, walking the peninsula, spotting marine wildlife and sampling the local seafood. When darkness falls, be sure to look up. The night sky here is something to behold. </paragraph> <title> Day 2: Kaikōura to Hanmer Springs </title> <paragraph> Another short distance day on the road, when you leave Kaikōura you’ll leave also leave the coast, as you head inland towards the mountains. </paragraph> <paragraph> Around two hours later of rolling hills and snowy peaks, Hanmer Springs is waiting. The small alpine village is wrapped in forest and clear air. Spend the afternoon walking pine trails, settling into your stay and soaking in the quiet. As evening cools, the hot pools take centre stage. Steam rises. Stars come out. It’s warm, unhurried, and full of alpine charm. </paragraph> <title> Day 3: Hanmer Springs to Hokitika </title> <paragraph> Today is a longer day in the car, for a seriously memorable journey. Climbing through Lewis Pass is something to behold. As you wind through the forest, you’re overwhelmed with rich landscapes and rich natives trees. After 4-5 hours, you’ll see the shift as you descend onto the West Coast. Rainforest surrounds you. It will feel more wild. More rugged. </paragraph> <paragraph> Hokitika sits between the Tasman Sea and rich green rainforest. Walk the beach at sunset, enjoy a hearty pub meal, and lean into the Coast’s unpolished charm. </paragraph> <title> Day 4: Hokitika to Lake Tekapo </title> <paragraph> Crossing from the Coast to the Mackenzie, you’ll experience a magnificent transformation of landscape. Leave the rainforest behind and drive toward open plains and quiet stretches. </paragraph> <paragraph> After about 5 hours of jaw-dropping scenes, Lake Tekapo appears and so does an injection of colour. Bright icy blue, the lake and sky, will completely win you over. This is somewhere to slow right down and soak in some of the most stunning lake-meets-alpine views on offer. Did we mention its home to stars unlike anywhere else? Walk the lake edge. Watch dusk settle. And look up. </paragraph> <title> Day 5: Lake Tekapo to Timaru </title> <paragraph> The final leg of your journey is gentle. Leave the high country behind and drift south through farmland and rolling hills toward the coast. About 3 hours later, arrive in Timaru. Relaxed and welcoming, this is a quiet place to finish well. </paragraph> <paragraph> Spend time along the shoreline, chase waterfalls, make friends with an alpaca, find a good meal and enjoy the feeling of having crossed the island in a way that made sense. It’s a soft landing after a week of dramatic contrast. And the best part, the return to Christchurch is only a short 2 hour drive. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">Central South Island Loop</item> <item key="Itinerary">5 Days Recommended</item> <item key="Distance">Loop starts/ends CHC</item> <item key="Hours">Multi-day Itinerary</item> <item key="Price">Variable (Fuel/Accom)</item> </list>

Trail

Low-Effort Walks. Big Payoffs

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/loweffor-a3f.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> Not every family hike has to end in complaints and snacks thrown to the birds. These short walks deliver a lot without taking all day. </break><bold>Godley Head Track</bold> (Christchurch) offers clifftop views, WWII bunkers to explore, and a breeze that wakes everyone up. Pack layers. Pack snacks. </paragraph> <paragraph> <bold>Caroline Bay Walkway</bold> (Timaru) is as easy as it gets — a flat, coastal loop with playgrounds, gardens and penguins if you time it right. </break>Over on the West Coast, <bold>Rakaitane Walk</bold> near Moana is a gem. A 45-minute loop through podocarp forest, across a swingbridge, and alongside the mirror-like <bold>Arnold River</bold>. </paragraph> <paragraph> Need a bit more action? Try <bold>Carew Falls Track</bold> at <bold>Lake Brunner</bold>. It’s short, shady, and leads to a proper waterfall — with giant boulders that double as nature’s recliners.</break> No whinging. No turn-around negotiations. Just good walks done right. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">Christchurch, Timaru & West Coast</item> <item key="Itinerary">30–60 Mins per Walk</item> <item key="Distance">Varies (Multi-region)</item> <item key="Hours">Daylight Hours</item> <item key="Price">Free</item> </list>

Eat & Drink

Reefton Distilling Co

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/reeftond-7d8.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> A proud West Coast business, creating international award winning spirits. Little Biddy Gin offers an authentic gin experience. Made with fresh, hand-foraged native botanicals sourced directly from the untamed natural wilderness of New Zealand’s West Coast rainforest. Visitors can join a guided distillery tour to learn about the founder’s story, why the Tai Poutini West Coast rainforest was chosen as the home of the distillery and the processes behind their premium spirits, including Moonlight Creek Whisky and Little Biddy Gin. Tours include a complimentary tasting and the chance to browse the retail store. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast</item> <item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs 30 mins</item> </list>

Nature

5 Wild Things to Do With the Kids

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/5wildthi-b10.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> Let them run, climb, stare, and squeal — no rollercoasters required. </paragraph> <title> Lake Daniell Glow Worm Walk (West Coast) </title> <paragraph> A gentle track through lush bush to a hut where the walls come alive after dark. Glow worms = guaranteed wonder. </paragraph> <title> Seal Spotting in Kaikōura </title> <paragraph> You don’t need a tour — just walk the Peninsula Walkway. The seals are usually snoozing near the path (and stealing the show). </paragraph> <title> Godley Head WWII Bunkers (Christchurch) </title> <paragraph> History + tunnels + coastal views = ideal explorer combo. Bring snacks and a torch. </paragraph> <title> Penguin Watching in Timaru </title> <paragraph> At dusk, the little blues waddle up from Caroline Bay. It’s wholesome. It’s free. It’s hard not to narrate out loud. </paragraph> <title> Banks Peninsula Waterfall Walks </title> <paragraph> Short tracks, native bush, and the chance to get your feet wet. Easy wins for all ages. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">South Island (Multi-region)</item> <item key="Itinerary">1–3 Hours per Activity</item> <item key="Distance">Varies</item> <item key="Hours">Daylight & Dusk</item> <item key="Price">Free</item> </list>

Trail

Old Ghost Road

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/oldghost-4ea.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> A long-forgotten gold miners’ road has been revived as a mountain biking and tramping trail. The 85km-long Old Ghost Road traverses majestic native forest, open tussock tops, river flats and forgotten valleys. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast</item> <item key="Distance From CHC Airport">4 hrs</item> </list>

Nature

West Coast Treetop Walkway & Zipline

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/westcoas-d01.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> The 425m dual zipline & West Coast Tree Walk is perfect for families and those seeking both excitement & tranquility. Walk among 800-year-old Rimu trees or enjoy a 60km/hr zipline ride together. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast</item> <item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs 40 mins</item> </list>

Nature

Hokitika Gorge

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/hokitika-548.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> A true photogenic gem — brilliant turquoise water fringed with stark white limestone cliffs and lush green rainforest — Hokitika Gorge is one of the West Coast’s most instantly recognisable scenes. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">West Coast</item> <item key="Distance From CHC Airport">3 hrs 45 mins</item> </list>

Nature

Top nature stays in the Central South Island

<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/topnatur-1025.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> In the Central South, the best places to stay are defined by what’s outside the window: rainforest, mountains, coast, stars. These are stays for people who travel to soak up the sights and sounds nature shares. </paragraph> <title> Maruia Springs (Hurunui) </title> <paragraph> Thermal pools, forest sounds, no reception. Tucked deep in native forest near Lewis Pass, Maruia Springs is where people go to discover what wellness truly means. Natural thermal pools steam gently, native birds provide the melodies, and the day-to-day feels far away. Evenings are quiet and warmly lit, with nourishing food and peaceful night skies. Come here to disconnect properly. </paragraph> <title> Rainforest Retreat (West Coast – Franz Josef) </title> <paragraph> Set on the edge of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, Rainforest Retreat places you in the heart of the forest. Literally. Wake up amongst towering trees, thick fern and misty skies that feel quietly dramatic. Choose a tree lodge or chalet and let the rainforest do the rest. You’re minutes from glaciers and forest walks, some of the region's greatest natural treasures. </paragraph> <title> Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat (Mackenzie) </title> <paragraph> Dark skies, sparkling water and room to breathe. Overlooking Lake Pukaki, Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is all about scale. Expansive views by day, extraordinary skies after dark. The luxury high country station estate lets New Zealand’s tallest mountain, and the magnificent Mackenzie Basin take centre stage. Spend your evenings soaking in outdoor tubs as stars emerge one by one, indulging in the peace and stillness of it all. </paragraph> <title> Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses (Kaikōura) </title> <paragraph> Elevated luxury. Literally. Set between mountains and sea, Hapuku Lodge offers a rare balance of refinement and raw landscape. The tree houses rise above native manuka, opening out to sweeping views of the Kaikōura coast and ranges beyond. Your days might include coastal walks, whale sightings, or simply sitting on the deck with a good book. Evenings are calm and deeply comfortable. A place up high, for you to slow down. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">Central South Island</item> <item key="Itinerary">Overnight Stays</item> <item key="Distance">Varies (Multi-region)</item> <item key="Hours">Check-in Varies</item> <item key="Price">$$$–$$$$</item> </list>