|
hanmer springs
 In
this country of variety and contrast, it is not surprising to
find a mineral Spa Resort deep in the rugged mountains of North
Canterbury.
Hanmer Springs, 140 km north of Christchurch, is a convenient
stopover point on a South Island tour. Here you can indulge
yourself in all manner of outdoor activities during the day and
follow up with a refreshing health giving spa. The town offers
luxury and budget accommodation and attractive shops,
restaurants, cafés and bars.
The springs were first discovered around 1860, by a farmer
searching the barren tussock plain for stray cattle, but they
were soon developed as a therapeutic spa. Their source is an
underground reservoir 2 km under the town. Spring water is heated
from the earth’s core and bubbles up to the surface to form
the largest thermal spring in the South Island. Today the thermal
spa has wonderful landscaped rock pools, at different
temperatures, a 25 metre freshwater pool, sauna, steam room and
massage facilities.
 The Waiau River is where you will find
Thrillseeker’s Canyon and its adrenalin-pumping experiences.
Bungy jumpers hurl themself off the bridge with tortured screams.
You can pile on the excitement with rafting, canyoning, canoeing
and jet boating here as well. Mountain biking and horse riding
are on offer, plus golf at one of New Zealand’s top courses.
The 4wd Tours into Molesworth Station, New Zealand’s largest
high country sheep and cattle run, should not be missed.
 Hanmer Springs offers far more than extreme
adventures and therapeutic bathing. There are local walks, which
cater for all degrees of fitness. The Hanmer Forest Park has good
walking tracks through sycamore, oak and silver birch plantations
and native forest. The sub-alpine walkway on Mt. Isobel is
particularly enjoyable. St. James’ Walkway is well worth
exploring if you have several days, and other interesting walks
take in the Lewis Pass area on the highway to the West Coast.
Fishing is good in the Waiau River (trout and salmon) and Amuri
ski field provides skiing opportunities in the winter.
Hanmer Spring’s soothing waters, outdoor adventures and
fashionable living are guaranteed to make a holiday visit an
unforgettable experience.
|
