Traveling the Alpine Pacific Triangle in New Zealand
The Alpine Pacific Triangle is a geographic region situated in Canterbury on the South Island of New Zealand in the Hurunui District. The Alpine Triangle consists of Kaikoura which is famous for whale watching, Waipara Valley an up and coming wine making area and the alpine town of Hanmer Springs that’s long been famous for its thermal pools in addition to scenic beauty. In order to fully explore all the Alpine Pacific Triangle has to offer you should probably allow for a couple of days travelling time so you’re able to relax and take your time in each of the places along the route.
The Hurunui District where the Alpine Pacific Triangle starts is roughly a thirty to forty-five minute drive heading out of Christchurch City. As you head out of Christchurch City you will eventually reach the first destination of the Alpine Pacific Triangle which is Waipara Valley where you can stop for a glass of wine and a tour of a winery and vineyards. After enjoying some award winning wine you can continue up the coast of the South Island where you will reach Kaikoura where a lunch of fresh fish or crayfish will await you in one of the many restaurants. After lunch you can either take a short drive up the coast or see the seal colonies that reside in Kaikoura or you can book a whale watching tour for some adventure on the ocean. After you have done everything you’ve wanted to do in Kaikoura it’s time to head in land towards Hanmer Springs the third major destination in the Alpine Pacific Triangle. Hanmer Springs is small alpine town that offers hot springs, massage therapies and a choice of bars and restaurants to relax in. you can hire bikes or simply go for a hike on one of the many trails stretching out around town. If you come in the winter you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at one the ski hills tucked in behind Hanmer Springs or sit in the hot pools and enjoy the snow capped mountain views while relaxing with friends and family.
The Alpine Pacific Triangle shouldn’t be missed if you’re visiting New Zealand. It is an easy and beautiful drive that is well marked by means of road signs to help you along the way and plenty of information kiosks that will provide you with information of the different areas you go through. The total route encompasses roughly 370 km’s of beautiful panorama and scenic driving. Along the route you can expect to witness the Canterbury plains, snow capped off-road vistas and wonderful ocean views with several places to pull over and enjoy the scenery and to have a picnic. If you have the time you can take a scenic steam train and stop and see Frog rock and take in a coffee and lunch in of the many cafes along the route. There is also a multitude of scenic walks and hikes along the way so make sure you bring your walking shoes in order to take advantage of them.
If you are visiting Hanmer Springs you can stop by our website to book your Hanmer Springs accommodation or Hanmer Springs motels and find out more information on the area.
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