TRIP 1 CANTERBURY
TRIP 1
a journey along the
Alpine Pacific Touring Route Christchurch to Amberley via SH 1 44min, 46.5km
L
eave behind Canterbury’s Big Smoke and head north on SH 1; this is the Alpine Pacific Touring Route. It takes you across the Canterbury Plains, a mesmerising mosaic of paddocks, to your first stop – Amberley. When you’ve taken a pause in this cheerful little town it’s onwards to Hanmer Springs along SH 7. Those with a designated driver may like to savour a silky wine at one of the Waipara Valley wineries. You’ll carry on through the Weka Pass, Waikari and Culverden, and before you know it, Hanmer Springs. Enjoy the chance to unwind at this famous alpine village in its thermal hot pools. Then travel from Hanmer to Kaikōura via the Inland Kaikōura Rd for a truly memorable time on the coast.
ABOVE: Kaikōura Peninsula track © Getty Images RIGHT: Kaikōura Peninsula © Wings Over Whales
92 |
M U S T D O ’ S • CA N T E RB URY
SIDE TRIP
Amberley to Hanmer Springs via SH 7 1hr 2min, 86.8km Hanmer Springs to Maruia Springs via SH 7 and Lewis Pass 1hr, 77.9km Hanmer Springs to Kaikōura via Inland Road & Inland Kaikōura Rd 1hr 52min, 130km Kaikōura to Amberley via SH 1 1hr 50min, 134km
