Relaxation, Rejuvenation And Recreation In Canterbury

New Zealand's largest region is the Canterbury region, which is located on the South Island. The region is mainly composed of the Canterbury Plains as well as the surrounding mountains that enclose these plains. Bounded by the Conway River in the north, the Southern Alps in the west and the Waitaki River in the south, this region is full of coastal and mountain experiences that will make your holiday here one that you will never forget.

Canterbury is home to cities, farms, wineries, coastal townships and ski resorts. The region consists of two major wine areas, one in Waipara and the other in the landscapes surrounding Christchurch. These add to the pleasant, sophisticated atmosphere of the region and are essentially what attracts multitudes of tourists.

Campervan hire New Zealand in the Canterbury region is the best way to get around. Since the area is so large, you really need at least a week to explore it in depth. The roads will take you past stunning landscapes, magnificent natural formations, not to mention, spectacular coastal scenes and steep mountain climbs. Canterbury is divided into three main regions: North, Central and South Canterbury. Each of these regions are unique and offer something new and interesting to the keen and adventurous visitor.

North Canterbury

The northern part of the region is located just between Christchurch (another useful pick up point for campervans New Zealand) and Kaikoura, on the east coast of the South Island. The region stretches as far in as the Hanmer Springs and is home to many farms, wineries, beaches, ski resorts and intriguing historic sites. North Canterbury's towns include the inland, isolated settlements of Amberley and Leithfield and the coastal hideaways of Gore Bay and Motunau.

North Canterbury has claimed the natural wonder of the Hanmer Springs as its own and this is the essential must-visit of the region. The natural hot pools and spas will leave you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and once again in touch with your inner soul!

You will be feeling so relaxed after your visit to Hanmer Springs, so you should take advantage of this feeling and spend the night in the area. The Alpine Adventure Tourist Park in Hanmer Springs offers warm and affordable accommodation in a tranquil setting of native and exotic forest. The lovely alpine setting will contribute to the relaxation process of this amazing area and allow you to relieve yourself of the stress that city life can bring about.

Central Canterbury

The region of Central Canterbury is comprised of the towns of Rangiora, Woodend, Kaiapoi, Oxford, Darfield and Springfield. It is the perfect place to gains a taste of the relaxation that the heartland of New Zealand has to offer. This particular area is popular for boundless outdoor activities yet it still maintains a relaxed atmosphere.

Central Canterbury is home to an abundance of flowing rivers, stunning mountains and picturesque lakes. These provide ample opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, mountain hiking and biking, skiing and snow boarding. Or if you simply came here to take it easy and relax, then spend some time exploring the quaint and charming townships and the ruggedness and beauty of the untouched high country.

South Canterbury

South Canterbury is considered a separate region to Canterbury and is comprised of the Timaru, Mackenzie and Waitmate districts. It is essentially centred on the city of Timaru and is an exciting and progressive region. South Canterbury's geographical location places it right in the centre of the South Island, positioned two hours south of Christchurch and two hours north of Dunedin.

If you decide to stay in Canterbury's south, the most popular place to stay would have to be the Timaru Top 10 Holiday Park. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere of the spacious parkland is the perfect place to park your campervan and with a close proximity to the city's shops and restaurants, you really cannot ask for anything else.

Embarking on a campervan adventure in the Canterbury region of New Zealand's South Island will reward you with spectacular scenery, amazing experiences and a rejuvenation of the mind, body and soul. The division of the region allows you to explore the vast differences and contrasts on offer, depicting the very essence of New Zealand's wonder and beauty.

Christine Barton