HURUNUI IS HERE, NOW

Often touted as the South Island’s best-kept secret, the Hurunui District boasts more than you could ever imagine possible – and it’s all on our doorstep. Whether it’s a day trip or an extended excursion, you can enjoy all the region has to offer at your very own pace.

Home to some of the most diverse land formations in New Zealand, the region is naturally a stand-out for local wine. ‘The coolest little wine region in the country’ has highly varied and interesting soil types, which have offered up concentrated and expressive wines. Hurunui is known for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling. The 90 vineyards in the area are mostly independently owned by local families.

Waipara Valley’s Vineyard trail is remarkable. You will journey through world-class vineyards and historic farms; have the opportunity to visit cellar doors and dine at winery restaurants. Add in a venture to the Greening Waipara Biodiversity Trails, or perhaps the historic steam train at Weka Pass Railway, and you have a well-rounded and varied experience. The trails are designed for cyclists, walkers, and joggers – both young and old. Finish a track by soaking up the phenomenal views for which the valley is so well-known.

The local fare is enticing; restaurants like Black Estate and cafés like Little Vintage Espresso champion fresh, seasonal, and unique ingredients grown in the Hurunui. For carnivores, there’s venison, beef, and seafood; if you have a plant-based palate, try some of the honey, olive oil, and organic fruit and vegetables.

North Canterbury’s hidden gem is its very own truffière, nestled amongst the region’s rolling hills. The largest truffle-growing operations in the country, Kings Truffles also provides truffle-infected seedlings, education, and more. Make sure to say hi to Moose, chief truffle hunter and an all-round good dog.

Is it Saturday? Then make sure you experience Amberley Farmers’ Market – a veritable cornucopia of fresh hazelnuts, goats cheese, Waipara honey, berries flowers, and fudge – and that just scratches the surface.

Put an afternoon aside to discover the Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park. The quarry, once a lime works, is now moonlighting
as a permanent sculpture exhibition, with owner Raymond Herbert’s creations nestled amongst a curated native garden. Raymond lives and works on-site, and for larger groups, he will host a complimentary forging demonstration on request.

For the more adventurous amongst us, Alpine Horse Safaris can take you on the longest safari in New Zealand, covering half of the South Island high country on purpose- bred stock horses. Take in the high country, snow-capped mountains, and alpine lakes; the real backcountry.

Finish your adventure with billy boiled tea and a hearty meal cooked over an open fire. You can take a two-hour journey or one lasting up to twelve days – the choice is yours.

This nation we call home is a unique and beautiful place – and for a genuinely different Kiwi getaway, keep Hurunui in your books. No matter how long you want to trip around, you can discover hidden secrets, be waited on, and forage for your own local delicacies – there are gems to be found just down the road.

DON’T MISS

Retail therapy in Hanmer Springs | Tapas at Rustic Café | The view at the top of Conical Hill