Self Drive Tours: Christchurch – Hanmer Springs

Tuesday, January 18th, 2011

Read about 'Self Drive Tours: Christchurch – Hanmer Springs' on USAVE, the place for all things car rental.

Hanmer Springs is an alpine village located in the Hurunui District just 90 minutes drive from Christchurch. Famous for its alpine spa and hot springs, Hanmer also offers a range of adventure activities including bungy jumping, quad biking, go-kart safaris and scenic flights. More sedate activities include horse riding, clay bird shooting, golf and hiking.

There are over 50 accommodation providers, including holiday parks, motels, hotels and holiday homes, so there’s something to suit all budgets and group sizes. Dining options include cafes and restaurants offering everything from Kiwi classics to Thai and Indian cuisine.

Head north from Christchurch on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route, past the coastal towns of Woodend, and Amberley and stop for lunch in a winery in the Waipara Valley, one of the country’s fastest growing wine regions. Head inland past the rural township of Waikari, stop off at the historic Hurunui Hotel for a cold drink, then through Culverden before arriving in Hanmer Springs. This route will take an hour and 45 mins (not including stops) and is approximately 132km (84 miles).

Things to do in Hanmer:

• Spend a few hours soaking in the thermal springs
• Visit the Amuri Estate for olive oil and wine tasting
• Get up and close with the animals including donkeys, goats, alpacs and yaks at Wai Ariki Farm Park
• Go bungy jumping, jet boating, rafting or quad biking with Thrillseekers Adventures
• Explore Hanmer Forest on a horse trek or hire a mountain bike

Save money and organise your own Christchurch to Hanmer tour with a rental car from USAVE. Grab a great deal on one of our hire vehicles, pick up from our handy Christchurch car rentals depot, print off some directions and a map and hit the road!

Related articles:
Places to Visit from Christchurch
Tips on Safe Driving in New Zealand

Tags: christchurch car rentals, christchurch travel, New Zealand Self Drive Tours, travel tips