Explore
With untouched land, mountain views and a welcoming hospitable culture - this is a place to add to your South Island itinerary.
Nowhere, Worth Going
An hour's drive from Christchurch Airport, Mid Canterbury invites you to explore high-country adventures, charming villages, and landscapes so stunning they belong on a postcard. Whether you're jetboating down a braided river, embracing community at the local markets or chasing views fit for the Lord of the Rings, you'll find a pace that feels just right.
Rain's forecast, now what?
Rainy days don’t have to mean staying indoors with nothing to do. Here, you'll find plenty of experiences that make grey skies feel like an opportunity. From museums and creative hubs to pools and spas, here are some of the best ways to enjoy a drizzly day.
Relax
Nestled between the Southern Alps and Pacific Ocean, Mid Canterbury quietly delivers some of the most memorable experiences in New Zealand.
Indulge
Discover a destination that’s full of flavour, full of heart, and absolutely worth your time.
Explore Mid Canterbury
Ashburton
Ashburton (Maori: Hakatere) The main service centre for the district, combines city shopping and dining with rural friendliness. Ashburton is the commerical centre of Mid Canterbury, and there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including the EA Network Centre that features several heated swimming pools, spa and steam room.
Ashburton
Ashburton (Maori: Hakatere) The main service centre for the district, combines city shopping and dining with rural friendliness. Ashburton is the commerical centre of Mid Canterbury, and there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including the EA Network Centre that features several heated swimming pools, spa and steam room.
Hinds
Located on the Canterbury Plains on the south bank of the Hinds River, Hinds is a typical rural village servicing the surrounding area, with a primary school and play centre, village shop, two churches, tavern, community centre, domain to cater for sports and recreation, and swimming baths.
Methven
Tranquil yet exhilarating, relaxing yet vibrant, Methven offers a perfect escape no matter what your taste or budget. Just one hour from Christchurch on Inland Scenic Route 72.
Mayfield
Mayfield is located about 35km from Ashburton on the Inland Scenic Route 72 that runs through Mid Canterbury. The community can trace its roots back to 1879 when the first post office was established.
Mt Somers & High Country
Mt Somers (Māori: Te Kiekie) and Mid Canterbury high-country offer some of the most spectacular landscape scenery in New Zealand, possibly the world. Mt Somers is the gateway to the Hakatere Conservation Park and the high country.
Rakaia
When you visit Rakaia, you will get to taste the community charm and take in the walkways, beauty and peacefulness that Rakaia has on offer. Oh, and get up close to the magnificent oversized Salmon.
Staveley
Staveley, where the handmade sausage rolls at the Staveley Cafe & Store (established in 1876) have a national following! It's also home to one of New Zealand's few community run outdoor ice skating and curling rinks.
This is your invitation to slow down, look closer, and go a little further.
Plan Your Visit