Escape the city and indulge in a little something different. There are plenty of places on the outskirts of Ōtautahi Christchurch for the ultimate weekend getaway. Cruise north along the open road to vines and fine dining in Waipara, nature walks and hot springs in Hanmer Springs and unbelievable wildlife cruises in Kaikōura. Plan a beach getaway at Gore Bay for pristine surf and sand, or stay in the city and enjoy your very own staycation.
The Alpine Pacific Touring Route is 450 km’s of incredible scenery between Christchurch and Kaikōura. With so much to see along this touring route, weekend getaways are full of spectacular coastline, magnificent mountains and wide open plains. This massive variety of landscape and experiences is all within close proximity to the major city of Christchurch, and makes for some of the best road tripping in New Zealand. Whether you’re after peace and quiet or adventure and new experiences, a memorable weekend getaway from Christchurch is as simple as venturing to one of these top spots.
1. Kaikōura
A spectacular stretch of the Alpine Pacific Touring Route takes you along state highway 1 from Christchurch to Kaikōura. A trip to Kaikōura is the ultimate weekend getaway destination from Christchurch, as it’s only a 2.5 hour drive, though the journey there is half the fun. Enjoy roughly 180 km’s of incredible scenery with stops in small towns and Pacific Ocean lookouts along the way.
Escape to Manakau Lodge, an exclusive oasis at the foot of the mountains, or spend your weekend soaking up views of the ocean, mountains and town from Clifftop Cabins. Keep heading north and stay at Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses for an extra special getaway in the treetops.
Kaikōura is home to some of the best things to do in the South Island. Swimming with dolphins is right up there, adding an unforgettable experience to your weekend getaway. Spot the marine life in the area on a Whale Watch Kaikōura boat cruise including whales, dolphins and New Zealand fur seals and you’ll spot sea birds like the mighty albatross on Albatross Encounter in Kaikōura.
This coastal town offers a complete change in scenery for a weekend getaway. Sneak in a scenic drive, bucket-list activities and stunning accommodation for an unforgettable little holiday. Travelling for more than just the weekend? The Alpine Pacific Touring Route links Kaikōura with Hanmer Springs and the Waipara Valley, so you can see a whole lot more before circling back to Christchurch.
2. Waipara Valley
The Waipara wine region is calling. Trade in the dining precincts and bustling streets for rows upon rows of vines at the foot of the rolling hills on a weekend getaway from Christchurch. In under one hour’s drive you can be at Black Estate, a must-visit cellar door in Waipara. Sample their wines with a tasting at the cellar door or book a private tour of the Netherwood Vineyard for an immersive experience in this beautiful wine region. The Black Estate restaurant is sure to impress, and even make this winery your base for the weekend by staying at the Black Estate B&B.
Visit Greystone cellar door and restaurant for an incredible food and wine experience among the vines. This is the perfect way to soak in the beauty of the Waipara Valley; sipping on Greystone organic wine and feasting on tasty small plates. Book their four course long lunch for a spectacular experience to level up your weekend getaway. Georges Road Wines is the best boutique winery to visit, perched on an 8 hectare estate and offering unpretentious and wholesome tastings at their cellar door.
This is a side of North Canterbury that is well worth the visit. Indulge in a wine-centric weekend away and discover some of the best wines coming out of this small region.
3. Hanmer Springs
A getaway jam packed with jet boat rides, nature walks and thermal hot springs is just a 1 hour 50 minute drive away from Christchurch. Hanmer Springs is humming with things to do, though it’s the spectacular scenery that makes this alpine village stand out. Mountains surround the Hurunui town where walking tracks weave through dense bush, and the Waiau Gorge to the south with impressive whitewater rapids. There’s even fun on the snow to be had in winter at Hanmer Springs Ski Area.
Keep the energy levels high with Hanmer Springs Attractions, the go-to for adventure including jet boat rides, quad biking and bungy jumping. For a weekend getaway focused on rest and relaxation, indulge in a massage and hot springs day at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa before retiring to fantastic accommodation like Hanmer Springs Hotel. Discover the wonder of the Hurunui District on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route with a weekend escape in Hanmer Springs.
4. Gore Bay
Gore bay is a coastal settlement on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route. The surf is good, the accommodation options are classic campgrounds and Kiwi baches and the rugged beach is superb for walks at low tide. It’s the perfect place for a getaway from Christchurch. In just 1.5 hours from the city you’ll be at the peace and quiet of this beachy town. The drive to Gore Bay is an adventure in it’s own right. The Gore Bay Tourist Drive gets you off the beaten track, to roads you’re not likely to stumble across unless they are in your itinerary.
Continue along the coast to see the striking Cathedral Cliffs. These eroded siltstone pillars dominate the landscape, and the bright blue water and green bush frame this natural wonder beautifully. Stock up on supplies in Cheviot, the largest town between Amberley and Kaikōura, before heading to the coast.
The Alpine Pacific Touring Route sees you travelling north along state highway 1, and before you turn off to the beautiful Gore Bay, check out Hurunui River on a jet boat ride. Energy Jet is the perfect way to experience this spectacular river.
5. Central Christchurch
You don’t have to go far to have a great holiday. Pack up in a flash and discover another side of Christchurch city at Fable Christchurch. Comfort and luxury are found here at Fable, with rooms designed to make you feel like you’re on holiday. Premium linen, mini bar and a gym and sauna are at your disposal, along with a fantastic restaurant and bar. The central location of Fable Christchurch encourages locals to explore the city like a visitor, checking out some of the top Christchurch attractions. Stroll around Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for fresh air and quintessential Christchurch scenery. Enjoy iconic activities like river punting tours and a Christchurch tram tour. See the sights from above on the Christchurch Adventure Park chairlift and dine at the fantastic Riverside Market, a mere 10 minute walk from Fable Christchurch. A stay in the city is the ultimate staycation to recharge and reignite your love for the city.
If you’re flying into Christchurch International Airport as a visitor, spend some time in the city before setting off on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route. With so much to see and do in this South Island hub, it’ll be a key part of your journey on this incredible touring route.
6. Mt Lyford
Mt Lyford is nestled in between all the major points on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route. Here you’ll find an alpine village and ski resort just 40 minutes drive from Hanmer Springs and 45 minutes drive from Kaikōura.
Mt Lyford Ski Area is at Mt Terako Basin and has t-bar lifts and runs for beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers. A winter weekend getaway at Mt Lyford is the perfect way to experience a boutique New Zealand ski field. Enjoy the quirks and perks of a smaller operation, and discover the beauty of the mountain on these slopes.
Mt Lyford Adventure Park is your gateway to all the incredible things to do in the area. As well as skiing, enjoy ice skating on Lake Stella and and hike Stella Basin in winter thanks to snowshoe and pole hire from Mt Lyford Adventure Park. In summer, explore 27 km’s of walking and cycling trails on the mountain, with breathtaking views from the elevated viewpoints.
Find a place to stay in this spectacular alpine village with Mt Lyford Holiday Homes. Journey 146 km’s north of Christchurch for a unique alpine holiday in a glamping hut or log cabin with views of the Kaikōura Ranges. Stay on the mountain in the Mt Lyford Adventure Park at Lake Stella Mountain Huts.
Cover Image: Lake Stella Mountain Huts
This article was created in paid partnership with Alpine Pacific Touring Route.
