Hanmer Apartments

HANMER SPRINGS

by kiwi

"Small but Popular"

Hanmer Springs is a relatively small spa resort town having a permanent population of less than 1000. Of course there are more people than that at any given time, but many are visitors. Hanmer is less than 2 hours drive from Christchurch so makes a nice getaway for people who live there. As well anyone who flies in to Chch can easily rent a car and drive to Hanmer. Just take Highway 1 north out of Chch until Waipara where you turn to the West on Highway 7. Nice long straight stretches make it an easy drive. Hanmer is a popular holiday spot for New Zealanders.

"Redwoods"

Amuri Avenue and the lovely Redwood trees. Primarily a spa town with the popular Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa.
Other activities nearby are Quad bike adventures, jet boating, rafting,bungy jumping, mountain biking, horse riding, golf, walking and other things.
Some ski fields are also driving distance from Hanmer.

"High Country Sheep Station"

From Hanmer you can access Molesworth Station via Jack's Pass, during the summer months. The road is unsealed and can be rough, but generally it is accessible even in a 2WD vehicle. Just take care and don't drive fast!

Hurunui District

by rozehill

When the Alpine Pacific Triangle touring route opened in 2000 it encouraged greater numbers of people to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions of the north Canterbury district of Hurunui and the jewel of the region - hot pools haven Hanmer Springs.
The touring route links three of the top half of the South Island's major visitor destinations - the Waipara Valley wine region, Hanmer Springs and Kaikoura, which itself is not technically part of the Hurunui District. The route, 370km in total, follows State Highway One along the East Coast, State Highway Seven which links the East and West Coasts via the Lewis Pass, and the inland State Highway 70 between Kaikoura and Hanmer Springs via Waiau. At less than two hours' drive from Christchurch, Hanmer Springs is the jewel in the Hurunui crown. A couple of years ago Hanmer's trademark thermal reserve, like much of the village, underwent a major upgrade programme. Having developed into a spa destination, the natural hot springs are the focal point. Set in native landscaping and with mountains as a backdrop, a soak in the hot pools is as scenic as it is therapeutic. The outdoor complex has a variety of thermal mineral pools and rock pools, kids pools and activities, and luxurious private thermal suites overlooking secluded gardens. Hanmer Springs is one of 12 townships, home to about 10,000 people, in the Hurunui District. The townships and areas within the district, which spans from Leithfield 30 minutes north of Christchurch to the Conway River south of Kaikoura, are becoming well-known for producing boutique food and wine - some of which were highlighted on the television show Taste New Zealand. The Waipara Valley is one of New Zealand's newest wine areas with 14 wineries currently producing several varieties including Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Most of the wineries are open to the public for tours and wine tasting and some have restaurants. A Waipara Valley vineyard guide detailing each winery and their specialties has been printed and makes for a good touring accessory. Organised wine trails of the region are also available. Even one of the region's most recognisable icons has its own vineyard. The historic Hurunui Hotel is the oldest licensed pub in the South Island and oldest continuously licensed hotel in New Zealand. Once used by drovers, it now not only has a vineyard but an ostrich farm and the restored stables have been transformed into a craft shop. The township of Hurunui is a one hour drive north of Christchurch. Hurunui District is also well-known as an area to pick up pottery, ceramics, wooden crafts, craft jewellery and much more. Visitors will find picture perfect country gardens, many of which are open to the public and some private gardens offer tours, meals and accommodation. The region is home to many archaeological sites, in particular, tours to caves once utilised by Maori. Lake Sumner, Loch Katrine, Lake Sheppard, Lake Taylor and Lake Mason are all found in the Hurunui District and provide excellent fishing and walking tracks. From surf to mountains, the Hurunui District is a diverse region with excellent touring options.