Alpine Pacific Triangle Tour – (Christchurch – Hanmer Springs – Christchurch)
Start Christchurch / Finish Christchurch
Recommended Length: 3 Days
Distance: 451 km (282 miles)
Alpine Pacific Triangle
Map of the Alpine Pacific Tour
View Alpine Pacific Triangle Tour(Christchurch – Hanmer Springs – Christchurch) via Fresh Rentals
What you’ll see
The Alpine Pacific Triangle tour will take you from Christchurch, New Zealand’s garden city with a strong focus on the arts and heritage. Once Christchurch is explored you’ll then head up the coast towards Kaikoura and enjoying the unspoilt beaches along the way. Kaikoura is famous for the wildlife in the area which include, whales, seals and dolphins, don’t forget to enjoy the local food.
The drive to Hanmer Springs will be highlighted by Waipara’s vineyards and olive groves. Once in Hanmer Springs, it’s time to relax with the hot pools, massage therapies and much more for preparation for the drive back to Christchurch.
Travel time: Km/Miles
Day 1
Christchurch to Kaikoura 2.25 hrs 184km/115m
While in Christchurch
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
7 Rolleston Ave, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013, New Zealand
Christchurch is famously know as the Garden City and it’s these gardens that are at the heart of this reputation. The botanic gardens boast of thousands of plants from around the world supported by a temperate climate since 1863.
The garden also contains some of the tallest and oldest tress in New Zealand. Complete with art works and memorial plantings which reflect the local and international history of New Zealand. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens showcase some of the flora of New Zealand and other parts of the world.
Day 2
Kaikoura to Hanmer Springs 1.5 hrs 132km/83m
Famous for its wildlife Kaikoura is a must for people travelling in New Zealand. With dolphins, whales and seal colonies. The local cuisine is a great way to try crayfish and a favourite with travellers to the area. You can also walk to see fur seal colonies and spy on big seabirds such as mollymawks, albatross and petrels.
The most scenic route to get to Hanmer Springs from Kaikoura is via the Inland Road which takes you pass the Mount Lyford ski village. There’s also the Leader Road which finishes at the Waiau Township. The Leader Road incorporates coastal and rural farming views.
Hanmer Springs gives you the option of relaxation and indulgence. It offers many hot springs as well as spas. But it’s not just for relaxation, you can also find many outdoor adventures in Hanmer such as forest walks, horse trekking, trout fishing, jet boating, bungy jumping and golf are some of the options.
Day 3
Hanmer Springs to Christchurch 1.75 hrs 135km/84m
On the way back you can follow the Waiau River which will lead you through the Balmoral Forest and across the Hurunui River. You’ll enter the Waipara region which is famous for its wine and food to stop for refreshments. The last leg of your journey takes you past the surf beaches of Amberley, Leithfield, Waikuku and Woodend.
The South Island’s largest city, Christchurch is an entertaining mixture of refined lifestyle and cultural excitement. The tranquil Avon River meanders through the city, historic buildings house a lively arts community and restored trams make it easy to get around. Visit heritage sites, museums and art galleries, and enjoy the highly developed restaurant scene.
They say you can’t beat ‘asking a local’. Well that’s us, we’re proud local Kiwi’s.
