What’s on in New Zealand
North Canterbury
Take a trip north of Christchurch and reward yourself with views of braided rivers, snow-capped mountains, coastal landscapes, and grapevines as far as the eye can see. You are right, North Canterbury really is full of all the beautiful things that New Zealand is known for.
Visitors and locals alike enjoy the scenic drive just 40 minutes out of Christchurch to spend a few days of relaxation at Leithfield Beach Holiday Park. Gail and Kev make sure everyone feels at home at their seaside location, and there are many things to keep you busy during your stay including: swimming, river walks, or a game of tennis at the court next door. The sites, cabin, and onsite caravans for hire are complimented by contemporary amenities expected at a Family Parks holiday park.
After a busy day of activities (or relaxing with a good book!), there is no need to worry about who’s turn it is to cook; just visit the onsite takeaway caravan, Hector’s, open Friday and Saturday evenings, and extended hours during peak holiday times.
Travel a further 45 minutes north and Alan will welcome you to Alpine Adventure Holiday Park in Hanmer Springs. The geothermal location is home to the iconic Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, the number one must do when you visit. The pools are the perfect place to relax and offer family and adults only thermal pools, along with an exciting freshwater playground to keep the kids entertained!
Alpine Adventure Holiday Park offers a range of accommodation to suit groups, families and couples. The onsite pool, children’s playground, BBQ areas and bike hire provide guests with a multitude of ways to fill in their stay.
Not only does North Canterbury boast two Family Parks holiday parks, it is also a vibrant hub of year round activities and events. We have put together a list of a few of our favourite North Canterbury events to help you plan your next stay at Leithfield Beach Holiday Park and Alpine Adventure Holiday Park.
Amberley Farmers Market & Amberley Craft Market
Every Sat morning
Head 10 minutes up the road from Leithfield Beach Holiday Park to Carters Road between 9am and 1pm each Saturday morning and visit the Amberley Farmers Market. Grab a selection of delicious local produce to devour during your stay.
The Amberley Craft Market is held on the same site at the same time, and is a great place to pick up a handmade memento of your trip or a beautifully hand crafted gift.
Weka Pass Railway
1st and 3rd Sunday each month
Weka Pass Railway is a real delight for the whole family! It runs on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month and uses both vintage steam and diesel-electric locomotives to take you on your 12.8km journey through the scenic limestone formation of the Weka Pass. Along with the standard timetable, look out for special event days on the website.
North Canterbury Wine and Food Festival
March
They call it the ‘coolest little wine festival in the country!’ and they are not wrong. Local food and wine is paired with a day of live entertainment, as festival goers celebrate the abundance of the year’s harvest; under the oaks in the Glenmark Domain. This charming festival is a real treat for the senses.
Hanmer Springs Half Marathon, 10km and 5km ‘Fun’ Run
May
This spectacular run takes you from the Hanmer Springs Domain and into the Hanmer Springs Forest, offering stunning scenery to enjoy as you run. The alpine views and lush forest surrounds make this course a favourite with both competitive and recreational runners, so make sure you register early to secure your place.
Leithfield 7km Walk
September
If you prefer walking over running then lock this event in your diary. The 7km course along a dedicated walking track is perfect for all fitness levels. The event is hosted by the Waimakariri Women’s Mountain Biking & Walking Group, and is especially for women aged 18 years and over.
Of course, if you don’t fit this demographic you can take the walk any time you like! Just ask Gail and Kev at Leithfield Beach Holiday Park for directions to the track if you need them.
Amberley A&P Show
October
Head along to the Amberley A&P Show to see the locals compete in a range of classes including horses and ponies, sheep, cattle, cookery, crafts, flowers, and vegetables. There are lots of activities to watch while you are there including dog trials and the hoof to hotplate competition using lamb and beef.
Pack a picnic or visit one of the onsite vendors to keep the hunger pangs at bay.
Now we have got you thinking about planning your trip to North Canterbury, you can see what else is on in the area at
For more information on in the North Canterbury Region region visit Visit Hurunui or Visit Hanmer Springs.
See Member Rewards in North Canterbury & surrounding areas
