Are you planning a road trip from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo in New Zealand and aren’t sure what sights you should see along the way? You aren’t alone!
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This definitive guide to the best sights to stop and see as you drive from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo will help. Below are some of the best stops to help you plan your journey.
1. Rakaia George Walkway
Rakaia George Walkway is the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs, breaking up your journey. The walkway runs for 10km along a single track, taking around three hours to complete.
It’s worth taking your time so you can soak up the beautiful views on offer. You will see Snowdon coal mines, forest canopies, and lava flows, blending history and scenery on your walk.
There are plenty of spots to stop and take photographs, building a beautiful collection of scenery pictures to share when you return.
2. Trotts Garden
Trotts Garden is the perfect place for plant lovers to enjoy. Even if you aren’t a plant fan, it’s worth getting out and stretching your legs in this stunning spot.
You can take your time roaming the gardens, learning about the planting and design, or simply taking pictures of the lovely flowers. You can stop for afternoon tea here, too, fuelling your body before you head back on the road.
3. Washpen Falls
Washpen Falls is one of the most beautiful spots to enjoy in New Zealand. It is at the bottom of a 4km looped walking trail that is easy for all abilities to walk.
Alongside the beautiful waterfall, you can enjoy caves, birdlife and wildlife, and even old WW2 targets. You do need to pay for the walk to the falls, but it’s worth the money, especially as you will encounter so much more than just the falls.
4. Geraldine
Geraldine is a small town in Christchurch that we think is worth a visit. Peel Forest, Pioneer Park, and Talbot Forest are some of the most perfect places to enjoy a hike and spot wildlife while you are in Geraldine.
There is so much to do in Geraldine that it’s an excellent place to spend the full day. The Academy of Performance & Arts is worth a visit, along with the local shops and restaurants.
5. Ashburton Lakes
Ashburton Lakes spreads across the Hakatere Conservation Park and is one of the few areas of natural biodiversity in mid-Canterbury. There are plenty of spaces to walk, relax, and take in the stunning clear water views.
Here, you will find a collection of lakes to enjoy, including Lake Heron, Lake Camp, and Lake Clearwater. It’s the perfect place to stop and spend a few hours exploring.
6. Peel Forest
Peel Forest is the perfect place for a hike. It is Geraldine’s largest reserve and offers plenty of walking trails for you to choose from, depending on the difficulty and length you want.
It’s worth heading to the old church on one of the trails, dating back to 1866 and a mural by Austen Deans, who lives in Peel Forest. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those who want to soak up some local history before heading to the cafe to refuel.
7. Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
The Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is well worth a visit. You can see incredible views of the night sky without any light pollution.
You can expect clear views of the planets, star constellations, and the Milky Way, depending on the time of year you visit. It’s the perfect place to stop overnight on your trip, too, soaking up the stars and getting the perfect shots of the night sky.
8. Mt Hutt Ski Resort
A little different from the other spots on the trip, you can head to Mt Hutt Ski Resort to enjoy some skiing or snowboarding. You don’t need to be an expert to visit, as there are plenty of slopes to suit all levels.
There are plenty of other activities to do, too, if skiing and snowboarding aren’t your thing. Enjoy sightseeing tours, snow play events, or take your children to the playgroup where they can burn off some energy, and you can enjoy a few child-free hours.
Start your road trip adventure today
Now that you have your sightseeing spots picked, it’s time to get the best rates on campervan rental in Christchurch and make your trip a reality!