Adventure Filled Days in Canterbury
Looking for a short break filled with heart pumping activities in epic locations? Canterbury is the gateway to explore the biggest range of outdoor adventures in New Zealand.
Day 1: Christchurch to Methven
Touch down in Christchurch for a spot of breakfast at one of the city's many cafes. Stroll along The Terrace and check out one of the many new restaurants or grab a bite at one of the gourmet food stalls at the Riverside Market.
Head to Adrenalin Forest to kickstart the adventure with seven high rope courses designed to push you to the limit.
Spend the afternoon in Methven, a bustling ski town in winter and adventure playground in summer. If it's ski season, head off-piste and hit the slopes of Mt Hutt. But if the snow is a no show, crank it up a notch with some downhill mountain biking at the Mt Hutt Bike Park or Jet Boat ride up the Rakaia.
End the day with a hearty meal in one of the local Methven pubs on the way back into town.
Day 2: Methven to Peel Forest
Drive 75 minutes along the bottom of the foothills to Peel Forest and witness the stunning surrounds as you battle guaranteed grade 5 rapids with Rangitata Rafts.
Recharge your batteries on one of the walking tracks around Peel Forest Scenic Reserve soaking in the serenity of virgin forest with giant native trees, many of them over 1000 years old.
Enjoy life before the car and journey across the gorgeous countryside on horse with Peel Forest Horse Trekking catering to all levels of experience.
Day 3: Peel Forest to Geraldine
Journey 20 minutes to Geraldine and meet Big Rock Adventures for a full day of non-stop adventure with canyoning tours designed to suit every level of ability, from novice to expert.
Refuel at one of the many restaurants and cafes in Geraldine like the Running Duck providing comfort food in a classic Kiwi 'bach' atmosphere or the Barker's Foodstore Eatery where you can take a culinary journey through their artisan products.
Head back to Peel Forest for another night or enjoy some genuine Kiwi hospitality at the historic Waikonini homestead nestled at the base of Mount Peel.
Day 4: Geraldine to Ashburton to Christchurch
Finish off your adventure filled holiday by heading to Ashburton and tour Canterbury's plains, ocean and Southern Alps from 12,000 FT. Then skydive out of a perfectly good plane…for fun!
Grab some lunch at The Lake House Restaurant on the shores of Lake Hood with uninterrupted views of the lake and Southern Alps beyond.
Get back on the road for the hour drive back to Christchurch for some time exploring the central city.