Hakatere Heaven | South Island | New ZealandGuest post by Jennifer Branje | Southproud.co.nz

Driving Canterbury’s flat straight roads may afford travellers a glimpse of our magnificent Southern Alps but it gives few clues of our High-Country splendour. If you really want to explore, get off the flat and head for the hills!

Mid Canterbury is famed for dairy and seed production. Ashburton, the main centre, is a service hub for local industry and thrives off the back of such. Ashburton may not be a well publicised tourism destination, but don’t discount a stopover there. The locals are really welcoming and the district has plenty to offer.
Ashburton Domain & Gardens sprawl over 37 hectares of the town centre with colourful flowerbeds, playgrounds, water features and specimen trees. The paths are sealed and accessible for all. Plenty of seating and picnicking areas make it a real favourite in summer and parking is readily available for all sizes of vehicles. It’s the jewel in the town’s crown and enjoyed by all who visit.
Ashburton Aviation Museum, located on the outskirts of town at Ashburton Airport, houses a trove of aviation memorabilia, classic planes and a large collection of models. Run by a bunch of passionate volunteers with a wealth of knowledge, a visit here is well worth your time. The collection is undercover so whatever the weather you can peruse at your leisure. 
Plains Vintage Railway and Museum is located on the southern side of Ashburton just off the main road. Lovingly restored steam & diesel engines will take you for a ride down the track on open days and the recreated vintage village holds some fine examples of tools, appliances and industrial machinery from yesteryear. The village fire station proudly displays antiquated fire trucks and if you’re lucky there may be a few steam buffs there running their gear. The Lynn Woodworking Museum will excite anyone handy, displaying thousands of woodworking tools, lathes & hand made furniture.
If you are visiting during winter, Wakanui Beach, (a short drive from Ashburton to the coast), offers a spectacular view of Aurora Australis when active. The flat horizon and Aurora’s flashing lights afford excellent astro photography opportunities.
Despite being dominated by rural industry, Mid Canterbury is home to some very talented artists and sculptors. Pop in to Grace Gallery, just off SH 1 and view their amazing works. The Ashburton Art Gallery also has regular exhibitions. You’ll find it on the main road beside the town gardens.
If cycling is on your agenda, why not get out on the Lake Hood Trail. This picturesque track will take you along the Hakatere River, through bush, and on to Lake Hood. The track can also be walked and takes around 2 ½ hours.
During the warmer months, a visit to Trott's Garden is a must. Hailed as a garden of national significance, this private haven also hosts functions. Neatly clipped Buxus form geometrical delights and colourful flowering specimens attract local birdlife. Take a picnic and soak up the sunshine in fantastic manicured surrounds.
A short drive from Ashburton is the alpine village of Methven. During winter thousands flock here to ski the slopes of Mt Hutt. Mount Taylor Lodge offers affordable accommodation for those seeking a winter wonderland experience with warm, well appointed rooms close to pubs and eateries. There’s plenty of places to hire mountain bikes, & ski gear and good transport links to the mountain.
Hakatere Conservation Park is quietly magnificent. The best part is….. the whole thing!
Snow fed braided rivers ramble through the lowlands against a backdrop of mammoth mountains and rolling green hills. Along the road, old homesteads dot the landscape. Ramshackle barns and shearing sheds bordered with well weathered fence posts and spiky barbed wire hark back to a time when the hardy broke in this unruly land. This is where some well-maintained unsealed roads will take you to extraordinary alpine hamlets.
From Methven, cross the Rakaia River and head for the hills. The Ashburton Lakes District is perfect for outdoorsy types wanting to explore the wonders of nature. While mountain biking, fishing, nature walks, wildlife and water activities will keep you busy, the scenery is simply breathtaking.

Canterbury High Country Villas are located right in the heart of this alpine landscape. Offering seven well appointed suites within the luxury resort of Terrace Downs giving access to several local activities and a championship golf course. 
Lake Coleridge is an alpine jewel that is accessible by a well maintained unsealed road. This district offers several walks in splendid lofty surrounds. You’ll pass Lake Georgina and several other smaller water bodies to get there. It’s a journey of discovery and wonder you’ll never forget.
Make Hakatere a destination on your next South Island excursion. The outstanding scenery, extensive activity options and raw beauty will leave a lasting and memorable impression.