Winter Activities In Mid Canterbury

Set yourself up for a restful night's sleep before your early, but well worth it start, at Abisko Lodge in Methven. With stunning views of the Southern Alps and well-equipped facilities including a spa, sauna, and fireplace lounge, the lodge is the perfect spot to relax overnight. The friendly staff and comfortable rooms make it an excellent choice for a ski trip, tramping adventure, or simply to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

You can’t beat the view from the top, and what better way to get there than a hot air balloon? Michael and the team at Ballooning Canterbury will take you on a scenic flight over the Canterbury Plains, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, braided rivers, and patchwork farmlands. The flights typically start early in the morning, allowing for a serene and peaceful flight as the sun rises over the horizon.

Mid Canterbury is flush with fun adventure activities. Adrenalin junkies can choose between the crazy Dirt Banditz off-road Can-Am experience, or jet boating the Rakaia River with Discovery Jet. Who are we kidding? They’re both epic, so why choose? Do them all! Not quite so hard core? Try archery or clay bird shooting with NewZengland. Their expert coaching will have you hitting targets on your very first session.

Mid Canterbury has a vast array of landscapes and walking is one of the best ways to explore. Washpen Falls is a favourite with incredible views of the Canterbury Plains – a popular two-hour round-trip family walk (there is a charge of $10 an adult and $5 a child to access the track, you can pay this via the honesty box in the Visitor Centre). Rakaia Gorge Walkway sidles dramatic blue water providing great photo spots. Allow an hour return to the viewpoint or 3-4 hours for the whole track. Up for a challenge? Take a scenic drive to Peak Hill. The steep uphill lung burner rewards with 360° views of the alps, braided rivers and Lake Coleridge.

Did you know Mt Hutt Ski Field has a secret sightseeing pass you can access if you don’t ski? It’s also got the highest altitude spa in New Zealand. For the best viewpoint in Mid Canterbury you never knew existed, just ask the awesome Mt Hutt ticket desk to hook you up.

If you do ski, you’re in for a treat. Mt Hutt’s eight-seater chairlift can transport twice as many shredders and give you faster access to terrain parks and trails. From skischool and preschool for those over 6 months old, to lessons and gear hire, Mt Hutt has your day up the mountain sorted.

Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa are Canterbury’s newest thermal pools that provide the most luxurious apres-ski experience. The perfect spot to soak your aching muscles after a day skiing, hiking, or mountain biking. The hot pools offer a kids’ aqua play area, plunge pools as well as the unique offering of poolside canape and drinks service in the adults only area.