Ashburton

Stop and enjoy the quality shops, restaurants, art galleries & museums.

Lake Hood is the perfect recreational area for all water lovers. Top class facilities support visitors, sporting groups, and conferences regularly arriving in town... more info >>

Methven

Home of Mt Hutt, some beautiful backcountry and a special mix of people.

Methven is located one hour south of Christchurch just off the Inland Scenic Route 72. The thriving rural town is at the heart of a whole host of activities and experiences... more info >>

Mt Somers

The gateway to one of the top ecotourism locations in Canterbury.

Mountains, lakes, endangered birds, vast landscapes, waterfalls, mountain streams, braided rivers, and a LOTR film location makes this a must-see destination... more info >>

Rakaia

One of the world's best examples of a braided river and a great fishing spot.

Rakaia, a rural community 50 kilometres south of Christchurch, sets an immediate impact on its visitors with its landmark salmon and 1.8 kilometre bridge spanning the Rakaia River... more info >>

Mayfield A&P Show
Annual A&P Show with a fantastic mix of traditional and unique show events including the very popular pig racing...more info >>

 

Diggler Downhill Race & DHNZ Shuttle Day
Diggler Downhill is a Bike Methven event, designed as an easy to enter fun event for all mountian bikers. Lots of prizes and maximum fun...more info >>

 

Mike King Show - The Heat is on Summer Tour
Mike King, one of New Zealand's most popular and well-known comedians will be at the Methven Resort Hotel for St Patrick's Day. Buffet meal available from 5:00pm...more info >>

 

Land of Suprising Contrasts ....

This rich agricultural region stretching from the alps to the ocean, and bordered by impressive braided rivers, encompasses the Ashburton, Methven/Mt Hutt, Mt Somers & High Country and Rakaia area.


Within an hour from Christchurch International Airport you can be skiing or snowboarding, white-water rafting, skydiving, enjoying a country golf course, visiting gardens of blazing blooms, uncovering relics of aviation and transport history, hiking or mountain biking nature trails or enjoying traditional rural hospitality.A cluster of high country lakes lure avid fly fishers, a hot air balloon or heli flight provides a bird’s eye view of a patchwork landscape, a 4WD adventure can take you on a journey into the high country wilderness.


Heritage trails, craft markets, art galleries, country festivals and farm tours will fill your time with memorable New Zealand experiences.

 

i-SITE Visitor Centres

Contact the friendly, knowledgeable staff at the Ashburton & Methven i-SITE Visitor Centres to help you with information and reservations throughout the Ashburton District and New Zealand for activities & attractions, tours, accommodation, and transport (Bus, Ferry, Rail) services.

  

 

Ashburton i-SITE Visitor Centre
East Street, Ashburton
Phone: (03) 308 1050
Fax: (03) 308 1064
Email: ashburton@i-site.org

  

Methven i-SITE Visitor Centre
Main Street, Methven
Phone: (03) 302 8955
Fax: (03) 302 8954
Email: methven@i-site.org