Things to do in Hanmer Springs

1. Mt Isobel

This Forest path is a short walk appropriate for people of all ages and fitness levels, which includes a variety of wooden sculptures that may be found around the forest. Keep an eye out for the wooden dog, tuatara, gigantic, orangutan, and other creatures! The Mt Isobel Track, a 5-hour return climb to the alpine summits with magnificent mountain landscapes, is a more strenuous option. The Fairy Door Track, located closer to town, is a must-see for families.
The Hanmer Forest and other treks at Hanmer Springs are also worth checking out.

2. The giant's house

Enter a garden that appears as if it belongs in a fairy tale. The Giants House is a local artist's work, with mosaic art, water features, and more adorning the garden. There is a cafe and an art gallery on the premises. It's one of the cheaper things to do in Akaroa, at NZ$20 per person.

3. Hot Air Balloon

Your flight will take off in Mt. Hutt's foothills, where the mountains give great protection from the northwesterly winds. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Southern Alps, including Mt. Cook and Mt. Aspiring! Enjoy the Eastern views as well as the patchwork beauty of the plains to the Pacific Coast along the journey. After taking off, you'll soar to an altitude that provides amazing panoramic views of the mountains, then descend to a lower height for the second half of the flight to enjoy a different perspective by flying closer to the ground. Enjoy a celebration drink and snack in the landing paddock before boarding the chase car and returning to Methven.
Take your friends and family and create lifelong memories atop the world!

4. Discovery Tour

Plant your own unique tree to aid with the regeneration of our native ecosystem and leave your stamp on the history of our newly founded "Mable Hope reserve."

You will acquire an understanding of the value of New Zealand's native forest and explore some of the crucial connections created with our native fauna on a stunning scenic drive over an ancient volcano, accompanied by our experienced guide.

In Pohatu Bay, you'll find a wonderful blend of thriving sheep farms, penguin colonies, and native woods.

This farming family's conservation efforts have helped the penguins grow throughout the years, but they've also designed their agricultural operations to balance economy and ecology in order to conserve the biodiversity in their backyard.

5. Cow Stream Hot Pools

You may visit the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa for free if you don't want to pay the entry cost. It'll just take a 16-kilometer walk or cycle to get there... Along the St James Cycleway. The Cow Stream Hot Pools are a hidden gem. Cow Stream is roughly 15 kilometers from the St James Homestead. Then, for about 1.5km, follow the stream's left-side walking pathway to locate the natural hot springs along the stream.

6. Art Galleries

Explore the art galleries in Hanmer Springs to find inspiration and possibly a way to pass the time on a wet day in Hanmer Springs. The small Amuri Community Arts Council Gallery, nestled within the Hanmer Springs Library, is one of your possibilities. Alternatively, visit the Tait Gallery to see a variety of New Zealand artists' glasswork, woodwork, ceramics, jewelry, and paintings.

7. Hanmer Springs Animal Park

Despite its reputation as a vacation town, Hanmer Springs does include a few budget-friendly activities. At the Hanmer Springs Animal Park, you may meet some of New Zealand's most famous farm animals. Pet and feed the sheep, goats, pigs, ponies, donkeys, llamas, alpacas, cow, Texas longhorn, ostriches, emus, wallabies, water buffaloes, and deer for under NZ$15 per adult. With covered picnic spots, light meal sales, and playgrounds, the site is a great pastime for both families and animal enthusiasts.

8. St James Walkway

if you want to go on a spectacular walk in New Zealand, this may be a fantastic opportunity! The St James Walkway is a 66-kilometer 4-5-day trip that is appropriate for both novice and expert hikers. The path passes through vast stretches of pastoral terrain, beech woodland, sub-alpine tussock habitats, and mountain panoramas. Along the route, stay in Department of Conservation huts, which cost roughly NZ$15 per person per night. The track is one-way, although the Boyle River Outdoor Education Centre offers shuttle services to the track for roughly NZ$30.

9. Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens

Discover why Christchurch is known as "The Garden City." There seems to be something new to uncover every time you go around the grounds. You'll adore the restored peacock fountain at Christchurch's Botanic Gardens if huge water fountains are your thing (we're not sure whether it's anyone's thing, but this one is quite nice). When you're hanging out with your backpacking mates, a stroll around the surrounding park and garden is a lovely and relaxing walk.

10. New Brighton Pier

The New Brighton neighborhood offers a diverse range of activities. Surfing and sunbathing are common activities on the beaches, weather permitting. A stroll along Marine Parade also provides access to stores and eateries. What's a more calming activity to do on any Sunday evening than take a stroll on the pier?