Explore
Untouched landscapes and hidden gems worth slowing down for.
Slow Down, Look Closer
There’s more here than you might expect
Only an hour's drive from Christchurch Airport, Mid Canterbury is full of hidden gems to explore.
It's worth going.
Plan a relaxed escape
+Find Family-Friendly Fun
+See the Landscapes
+
A place where simple moments become unforgettable.
Sip on a milkshake at the Staveley Store. Wander to a hidden waterfall. Watch the Alps glow at sunset.
Whether you’re here to unwind, explore, or reconnect, Mid Canterbury invites you to take your time.
See what you can discover
Relax
Quiet places to unwind between the mountains and the ocean.
Indulge
Flavours and experiences shaped by the land and the people who care for it.
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