If you’re heading south this month, find time to wander further afield to visit these unmissable local attractions.
1.Stargazing in Tekapo
Thanks to the Dark Sky Project, which has created the Southern Hemisphere’s largest dark sky reserve above the Mackenzie Region, stargazers can bask in the full beauty of the constellations in an experience like no other. Viewed from here, the stars blaze brilliantly, unfettered by light pollution. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to your stargazing encounter, too, with a range of options including a mountaintop tour at the summit of Mount John, stargazing from purpose-built ‘observation craters’ at Cowan’s Private Observatory, and even a guided hot pools experience that lets you enjoy the stellar display from thecomfort of a 37.5 degree hot pool.
For more information, visit darkskyproject.co.nz
2.Street Art in Christchurch
With a vibrant arts scene and a growing reputation as the home of street art, Christchurch’s inner precincts are awash with a colourful and eclectic array of colourful displays. A special highlight is the expansive mural on display at Riverside Market’s rear car park, which celebrates the history of Christchurch and references its role as the birthplace of the New Zealand women’s suffrage movement, famously led by Kate Sheppard. That’s not all, however; a meandering tour from the YMCA building on Hereford Street to Allen Street and Rauora Park will unearth more street art gems from a diverse range of artists including Wongi Wilson, Fin DAC, Jacob Yikes and more.
Find out more at christchurchnz.com/explore/activities-attractions/arts-culture/celebrating-street-art-in-the-city
3.Larnach Castle
As Aotearoa’s only castle, Dunedin’s Larnach Castle holds a special place in the hearts of history buffs. It was built in 1871 by businessman and politician William Larnach for his first wife, Eliza, as their dream home. No expense was spared in the construction of the couple’s grand homestead, with more than 200 labourers working on the castle’s shell over three years. The interior took a further 12 years to be completed, with master craftsmen called in from Europe to oversee the decor. The surrounding grounds are also exquisite, with the castle sitting amongst seven acres of beautifully maintained gardens – rated by the NZ Gardens Trust as a Garden of International Significance. More information: larnachcastle.co.nz
4.Soak in the sights
There’s nothing quite like a relaxing soak to ease the day’s stresses away, and luckily, the South Island is home to some of the most picturesque options available. Of course, Queenstown’s ubiquitous Onsen Hot Pools deserves a mention (it’s hard to beat that gorgeous view overlooking the Shotover River!) but there are many others worth visiting as well. The award-winning Maruia Hot Springs, a natural sulphur spring located in the Lewis Pass national reserve, and Hot Tubs Omarama, nestled amongst serene Mackenzie country scenery, are just two places that should be high on your list. Closer to Christchurch – just 15 minutes out of the city centre – is He Puna Taimoana, hot pools right by the sea: a perfect stop if you’ve been on your feet at the show all day. Make sure you book first; visit hepunataimoana.co.nz for details.
5.Wine and dine in Central Otago
The mountainous landscape of Central Otago lends a distinctive character to the wine produced from this region, which is internationally renowned for its excellent pinot noir, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc. If you’re in the area, why not treat your palate to a tour of the many wonderful wineries dotted around the place – it would be rude not to! Black Ridge Vineyard, Cloudy Bay, Carrick Winery, Amisfield and Mt Difficulty Wines are just a few of the big hitters you’ll want to check out, but there are many more deserving of a spot on your list. Not sure which ones to visit? There are several companies offering thoughtfully curated wine tours in the area, so you can enjoy the full guided experience.
Check out centralotagonz.com/wine-and-food/events-and-experiences/
6.Shop ’til you drop at the Christchurch Markets
Local food producers, fresh fruit and vegetables, and artisanal craftsmanship… farmers’ markets are brimming with delicious new things to discover and Christchurch is home to some of our nation’s finest. As a first stop, you can’t go wrong with a visit to The Christchurch Farmers’ Market, one of the first markets to be established in Canterbury in 2004. It hosts over 60 stalls sprawled throughout the beautiful grounds of the historic Riccarton House & Bush, featuring everything from bakeries and beeswax wraps to gourmet dog treats for your furry friends. Other markets of note in the area include the Riccarton Market with more than 200 stalls and the Riverside Market, home to buzzy eateries and quirky shops.
7.Aoraki / Mount Cook
If alpine beauty, pristine landscapes and stunning natural views sound like your dream, it’s worth making the short trip out to Aoraki/Mount Cook to explore the many walking tracks that crisscross this national park. Thirty minutes away in Mackenzie Country, the majestic maunga and equally picturesque Lake Pukaki – famed for its vivid aquamarine hue – provides eye-catching views from every angle. If you don’t have the time to do the longer routes, fear not; the Aoraki/Mount Cook village has plenty of shorter walks ranging from a breezy 10-minute stroll to a four-hour loop, so there’s options to suit everyone. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
More information: doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/canterbury/places/aoraki-mount-cook-national-park
8.Wildlife watching in Kaikōura
Fur seals, dolphins, blue penguins and the magnificent giant sperm whale… when it comes to marine life, Kaikōura is New Zealand’s mecca. From whale watching flights, albatross cruises and dolphin diving, there’s no shortage of wildlife tours in Kaikōura. Just a couple of hours’ drive up the coast from Christchurch, this is your chance to get a closer view of these uniquely beautiful marine mammals up close. Hop on a purpose-built Whale Watch boat or paddle around on a wildlife kayaking tour guided by the experts. Swimming with seals is incredible; while they may not be the friendliest of creatures on land, for some reason they think people in masks, snorkels and wetsuits on a guided tour are great toys to play with!
Or try a dolphin swimming experience, where you can snorkel with a cheeky pod of dusky dolphins, known to be one of the most social and interactive species of dolphin in the world.
