Why not make the most of the summer weekends by booking the perfect escape just a short drive away. The Hurunui District’s picturesque village of Hanmer Springs is just 90 minutes from Christchurch and offers an array of fun activities and adventures for everyone. Here are eight activities to do on a weekend in Hanmer Springs.
1. Relax in hot pools
Start your weekend off right by taking a dip in the famous mineral-filled thermal pools, against a stunning oasis backdrop of gardens, mountains and redwood trees. Feel all your troubles wash away in this soul-nurturing experience. Indeed, it is an unmissable activity for all those stressed out adults looking for some relaxation after a long week.
đź“Ť 42 Amuri Avenue, Hanmer Springs 7334, New Zealand
2. Go wine tasting
Sample the best wines in the region by visiting one of the various local vineyards for some distinctive Kiwi flavoured wines. Some traveller favourites include Waiau River Estate, where you can spoil yourself to a full gourmet menu and charcuterie boards with phenomenal views, paired with award-winning wines such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, just to name a few. The perfect weekend activity for couples or a group of friends.
đź“Ť 2254 Mouse Point Road, SH7, Hanmer Springs 7334, New Zealand
3. Zoom down one of the best water slides
Hanmer Springs just so happens to have one of the best water slides in New Zealand. Feel the rush as you zoom down these hydro-slides, the largest aquatic ride, and a range of other slides such as the SuperBowl…it’s the perfect level of exhilaration. Read further about the best water slides in New Zealand.
đź“Ť Amuri Avenue, Hanmer Springs 7334, New Zealand
4. Hike around Conical Hill & Hanmer Forest
One of the best things to do in Hanmer Springs is walking to discover the beautiful landscape and hidden treasures. Both the Conical Hill Summit and Hanmer Forest are a must-do for adventurists. Opt to hike up to the summit and take in the 360-degree views, mountain bike through the forest, entertain the kids with the Forest Amble Track, which features friendly wooden creatures, fairy doors, and lots more.
đź“Ť Various Locations
5. Enjoy the Hanmer Llama experience
Opt for an experience of a lifetime by getting up close and personal with some friendly Llamas. With plenty of excursions on offer, you can select between multi-day treks, a picnic lunch stroll, scenic walks with the Llamas and plenty more. Certainly, it’s a fantastic activity for both kids and adults.
đź“Ť Medway Road, Hanmer Springs Save, Hanmer Springs 7395, New Zealand
6. Go luxurious glamping
Why not spend the Friday night of your weekend at this surreal Canopy Camping glamping site, before heading to Hanmer Springs, just one hour away. Wonderfully, Tawanui Farm, near Cheviot, features remote self-catering lotus belle tents, with a large hot tub and out-of-this-world views of the Kaikoura mountains, North Pacific Ocean and Hurunui River. From stargazing to bathing at dawn…you won’t be bored.
đź“Ť 919 Blythe Road, Motunau 7383, New Zealand
7. Embark on a foodie adventure
Hanmer Springs is a fantastic place to visit if you love food. Enjoy an array of scrumptious food and drinks from the local businesses. Think tasty gourmet sweets for all diets from The Decadent Fudge Company, chow down on delicious pizza from Springs Pizza joint, get your Indian food fix at Spice Village and the best dessert in the world from MK Restaurant…whatever you desire, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Plus, be sure to visit the Farmers Markets for some epic deals.
đź“Ť Various Locations
8. River Rafting & Jet Boating
Amuri Jet Adventures offers plenty of adrenaline-pumping experiences that provide entertainment for the whole family. During your river activities, you’ll observe marvellous views of Marble Point and there’ll be fun opportunities to swim in the river and rock jump into the clearest water. To book, visit their website.
đź“Ť 869, Hanmer Springs Road, Hanmer Springs, New Zealand