Whether it’s relaxing in a thermal pool high in an alpine village, admiring centuries old cave art, watching whales in their feeding grounds or bungy jumping from an historic bridge, the Alpine Pacific Triangle Touring Route has something for you.
Beginning just 45 minutes from Christchurch, the 370 kilometre touring route covers three of New Zealand’s most magical destinations, the palatable Waipara Valley wine region, Hanmer Springs – New Zealand’s Alpine Spa Village, and the fascinating seaside town of Kaikoura known for its marine mammals.
At almost every turn breathtaking vistas unfold, including lush hill country, majestic mountains, tumbling rivers, secluded forests, crystal clear lakes, sculptured limestone formations and bubbling hot springs.
Waipara Valley wine region, at the southern gateway to the Alpine Pacific Triangle will entice food and wine lovers. Everything from gourmet olives, honey, hazelnuts, delicious breads and even venison sausages can be savoured in the region.
There are 23 well-established wineries producing a variety of top quality wines, ensuring the perfect drop accompanies the mouth-watering delicacies found locally.
Visitors travelling in mid-March will have the opportunity to sample the area’s finest products at the annual Waipara Valley Wine and Food Celebration, where specialist producers showcase their internationally renowned goods.
For those looking to relax and unwind after their gastronomic adventure, Hanmer Springs offers an experience like no other. Perched 385 metres above sea level in the idyllic alpine spa village of Hanmer Springs, visitors can pamper themselves in the naturally heated pools, known for their therapeutic qualities, or indulge in a sumptuous range of spa treatments.
Surrounded by enchanting forests, serene rivers and mountains, Hanmer Springs also features delightful restaurants and cafes, boutique shopping, galleries and craft shops as well as stunning walking and mountain biking tracks, which wind their way around the unique terrain.
If you prefer a bit more excitement, other attractions in the area include jet boating on the Waiau River, horse trekking, high country quad biking, a Hagglund military style vehicle ride and bungy jumping from an historic bridge, all sure to get your heart racing.
The most eastern apex of the Alpine Pacific Triangle is the picturesque seaside town of Kaikoura, a delightful two hour drive from Hamner Springs.
Overlooked by imposing mountains, Kaikoura is renowned for its marine mammal watching and other land-based activities including an authentic Maori cultural tour, a coastal farm quad ride, star gazing tour and captivating walks.
The Peninsula at Kaikoura is the convergence of two currents, one subtropical and one subantarctic, which makes the sea rich in minerals ensuring an excellent habitat for marine life. Throughout the year visitors can view and experience the whales, dolphins, seals and many other species of marine mammals and seabirds. Those with a love of fishing will also be impressed, with the nutrient rich waters attracting a variety of fish species, including crayfish from which Kaikoura derives its name.
The Alpine Pacific Triangle Touring Route offers such a rich tapestry of experiences and showcases some of the best activities in New Zealand’s magnificent South Island. No matter how long your stay, you will be captivated by the vibrant surrounds and realise why the route is fast becoming one of New Zealand’s major attractions.
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