About the District

Situated some 30 minutes north of Christchurch the Hurunui District begins at Leithfield and extends to the Conway River just south of the Kaikoura Peninsula. Few regions offer the diversity and stunning surroundings of the Hurunui District, which is bordered on the west by the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps and on the east by the rich oceanic waters the Pacific. Hurunui offers lifestyle, adventure, and a chance to experience the rich history and culture of rural New Zealand. Its small towns offer a window into New Zealand's rural heartland.  

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From the irresistible charm of Hanmer Springs - New Zealand's best alpine spa, to the magnificent wine and food of the Waipara Wine Valley. The Hurunui offers a wealth of scenery, activities and experiences. The warmth of rural hospitality extends across the region matched by a wide range of activities, places to stay and rural experiences all within a short distance from Christchurch.

Wine & Food

The Waipara Valley is one of New Zealand’s newest and most rapidly expanding wine areas. Just 65 kms from Christchurch, this long narrow valley offers ideal conditions for growing premium quality grapes. With high sunshine hours, gentle north facing slopes and a wide range of soils, the Waipara Valley produces wines with unique and individual characteristics. Grapes were first planted in the Waipara Valley in the early 1980s. Today there are 14 well-established wineries producing a range of varieties including, Sauvignon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.  

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Looking for that big buzz? Then you’ll find it in the Hurunui. Here’s a place where you can push your limits with the most extreme range of adrenaline fixes you can imagine. Leave your fears at home and step out into the unknown. We dare you!