Last year, Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism brought you the Top 10 Free Things to do in Christchurch.

This year, it’s time to update the list with five new FREE favourites – and remind Christchurch visitors and locals alike, how many exciting ways there are to spend each weekend – on a shoestring budget.

1. Local Events

Christchurch is known for hosting some of the most exciting events in the country. We actually don’t know anywhere in the entire southern hemisphere that has the range of festivals and free performances on offer – year round and catering to all ages and interests.

Annual Christchurch events create a buzz throughout the city year round.

In January we love World Buskers Festival and Brighton Beach Kite Day, in March the Chinese Lantern Festival is a favourite, and every March we head to Ray Blank Park for Culture Galore. Right throughout the summer months Christchurch City Council sponsors cycling, family and fine arts events. The only trick is to find a calendar to keep track of them all.

2. Farmers Markets

Our favourite way to spend a weekend is market-hopping – and there’s probably no better place in the world to start than Christchurch, New Zealand. The surrounding region of Canterbury has so many market choices, the freshest local produce and most appealing (and creative, and healthy) range of goods, from blackcurrant honey to kumara hummus and beetroot truffles.

Christchurch Farmers Markets feature a great range of fresh produce - from chillis to chorizo.

3. Godley Head

Godley Head Scenic Reser

Godley Head Scenic Reserve offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Lyttelton Harbour and stunning Taylor’s Mistake beach, dotted with keen surfers and picnicking families on any Saturday in summertime. It’s a dramatic landscape of tussock-clad hills, dotted with historic sites, walkers, bikers and winding tracks like the aptly-named “Anaconda.”

4. Little River Rail Trail

If you’re inspired (and at this point picturing yourself on your bike), carry on toward Banks Peninsula and follow the historic Little River Rail Trail. It’s a cruisey and highly scenic route linking Motukarara to Little River following the edge of Lake Ellesmere, the largest lake in the Canterbury Plains.

5. The Avon River

While you save up for a special punting occasion (this is New Zealand’s most romantic mode of transport, and fully booked every Valentine’s Day!), take a walk along the river and enjoy the tranquility of willow trees and park views – equally rewarding on a crisp winter morning or balmy summer’s night.

Follow the walkways along Christchurch's Avon River and be inspired - plan to go punting, and look for paradise ducklings in springtime.

More information on things to see and do in Christchurch City.

For more information on Christchurch City and the Canterbury region visit www.christchurchnz.com.

Tour de France legend and celebrated cancer survivor Lance Armstrong has announced his return to triathlon – which is taking him all the way to Rotorua, New Zealand, in January 2011. He obviously still has a bit to learn about New Zealand’s real multisport capital; here’s a few reasons why Lance should put Christchurch and Canterbury on his cycling map.

1. St James Cycle Trail

We know that Lance has more experience on-road than off, but that shouldn’t stop him from helping New Zealand celebrate it’s very first “Great Ride.” St James is New Zealand’s first cycle trail project amongst the national cycleways to open to those keen cyclists amongst us – starting this summer.

2.       Hanmer Springs

‘Cycling muscles’ are one-and-the-same as ‘weary muscles’ – but nothing a stop at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa won’t cure. A logical stop on the way back to Christchurch from the St James circuit, or just a good training ride through the Waipara Wine Valley on a Saturday afternoon.

View of Akaroa from the Hilltop

3.       Akaroa and the Bays

Speaking of day trips, Lance could combine some pre-tri training with sightseeing. How about a leisurely pedal from Christchurch over the Hilltop to Akaroa followed by a run along Rue Lavaud and a swim with the rare Hector’s dolphins? When you finally catch your breath, the scenery takes it straight away again.

4.       Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Although St James is the first of the national cycleway projects to open, the “Alps to Ocean” project linking Aoraki Mt Cook to the coast is another serious temptation for anyone who likes to travel on two wheels. For someone always up for a challenge, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect setting than in the shadow of NZ’s highest peak.

5.       Team CCT

Kia ora, Haere mae. It’s always nice to be welcomed by people who understand you. Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism are an energetic team and  often commute on two wheels. Don’t be surprised to find us having an after-5 blat in the forest, whizz down Rapaki or weekend circuits around the Gorges.

6.       Christchurch Gourmet Bike Tour

Being an energetic sport, it’s always practical to combine cycle touring with sampling local staples. Christchurch’s City Gourmet Bike Tour takes in the Twisted Hop microbrewery, High Street’s C1 Café and Mona Vale’s historic homestead – whether it’s a Sunday roast or custard square you’re after, it’s no wonder Christchurch cyclists are so healthy.

7.       Terrace Downs Resort

Lance knows luxury, but even Lance has probably never seen anything like Terrace Downs Resort. After 18 holes of high country golf and an evening spa treatment, they’ll probably be able to talk him into the Terrace Downs Defi, New Zealand’s newest and most exciting multisport event. This will help him understand why Christchurch is known as the most active city in New Zealand, and why triathlon could take him one step closer to real adventure – a paddle on the Rakaia and a bike ride through the spectacular Gorge.

8.       Pegasus

Pegasus Golf & Sports Club (20 minutes from Christchurch) is the site of a December Triathlon Festival (with or without Lance). Local runners, cyclists and swimmers love this extensive outdoor recreation area, which reaches from the Waimakariri to the Ashley River. There’s a network of walking and cycling trails, abundant wildlife along the Ashley estuary and protected coves for swimming and kayaking.

Canterbury's Southern Alps

9.       Five Passes

Dyers, Evans, Gebbies, Arthur’s, Porters, Burkes, Lewis………..who’s counting? Lance loves hills and, thanks to the Southern Alps, the South Island promises world-class climbs and spectacular views across braided river valleys and patchwork plains.

10.   Festival of Cycling

Every December Christchurch comes out on two wheels to celebrate being New Zealand’s most cycle-friendly city – there’s a buzz in the hills and a race along the bays. Choose the Crater Rim off-road challenge or the traditional Long Bays circuit; or pour a glass of sav on the Terrace and watch the Criterium get underway. This year celebrity spotting could be the main attraction!

Learn more about Christchurch City and the Canterbury region

Keep up with the region’s Top 10 Travel Deals of the week

“The outlook for Thursday…your guess is good as mine….” Dave Dobbyn

Christchurch, New Zealand. There aren’t many cities in the world where you can ski today and surf tomorrow. All within an hour of the city centre. Visitors always ask – what’s the best time to visit Christchurch and Canterbury New Zealand?

Our answer – tomorrow. Our distinct Canterbury New Zealand seasons mean you can choose the harvest of autumn, the powder of winter, the blossoms of spring or the beaches of summer.

There are weather highlights in every season –here’s a few insider tips to Christchurch weather, from Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism.

Winter

From June to August, Christchurch cools off; Canadian residents wouldn’t call it “cold” – but North Islanders beg to differ. Regardless, it’s a true winter wonderland. There’s no better base for winter in the southern hemisphere, with 18 fantastic ski areas and a wide range of après activities – from whale watching to alpine spa villages and soaking in natural thermal pools.

Winter attire turns to beanies and boots, and our “Ocean to Alps” view goes snow-capped. Whether from central city hotels or the city’s Port Hills, views are panoramic and dramatic, stretching from the Kaikouras toward Arthur’s Pass. Winter rainfall may be less than other times of the year, and the dry conditions make it easy to get out and enjoy the slopes – or at least the spectacular views.

Like most regions in New Zealand, Christchurch and Canterbury has a relatively high proportion of sunlight during the winter months.

Average Winter High Temperature – 12

Average Winter Low Temperature – 3

Our picks on “where to make the best of winter” –
Mt Hutt – Canterbury’s largest ski area
Porters – The closest ski area to Christchurch
Kaikoura – New Zealand’s leading eco-tourism destination, for whale watching and wildlife cruises

Summer

From December to February, sunshine and high temperatures come to Christchurch and Canterbury. Within an hour of Christchurch city, there are over 40 safe swimming beaches, from hidden bays to dramatic coastline, surf clubs and sandy peninsulas.

Most places in New Zealand receive over 2,000 hours of sunshine a year. During summer, daylight can last until up to 9:30pm.

Compared to many other countries, New Zealand experiences relatively little air pollution, which makes the UV rays in our sunlight very strong during the summer months.

Average Summer High Temperature – 22

Average Summer Low Temperature – 12

Our picks on “where to make the most of summer” –
Akaroa – A French-inspired village with spectacular harbour views
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park – summer’s special iceberg cruises
Arthur’s Pass National Park – countless day walks and overnight hikes

Autumn

From March to May, brilliant autumn colours can be accompanied by excellent, settled weather conditions, making it a fantastic time to visit Christchurch and Canterbury.

Colourful changing leaves line the streets in Christchurch’s historic districts including Fendalton and the University suburbs.

Autumn and spring in Christchurch are particularly pleasant with average daytime temperatures ranging between 17°C to 23°C, with night temperatures dropping to around 13°C.

Average Autumn High Temperature – 18

Average Autumn Low Temperature – 8

Our picks on “where to make the most of autumn” –
Waipara Wine Valley – including the Mud House Winery and Pegasus Bay
Selwyn District – including Melton Estate
Central South Island – from Caroline Bay to Waimate

Spring

From September to November, New Zealand’s spring weather brings blossoms, festivals and new beginnings – signalled by the bleating of wee lambs in the hills and ducklings on the local Avon River.  Known as “The Garden City,” Christchurch turns on an amazing medley of colours in springtime.

Spring in Christchurch is as beautiful as anywhere in the world – and “Daffodil Day” at Otahuna Lodge is a “don’t miss.”

Average Spring High Temperature – 17

Average Spring Low Temperature – 7

Our picks on “where to make the most of spring” –
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa
Terrace Downs Resort
Rangitata Rafting

1. The new light house in Hagley Park
The hotly contested National Flower Bed Competition was taken out by Akaroa and the Bays who recreated the iconic Banks Peninsula’s landmark Akaroa Lighthouse.

2.    Gardens you can eat!
Fresh Cuisine is the Countdown exhibit, here you will find a cauliflower pavlova, kumara prawns and an almond turkey  – and that’s just at the entrance of their Marquee…

3.    Trend spotting
Gold, silver and bronze medals have been awarded to the gardens which display innovation and excellence in design  – these are the guys who set the trends for garden design in 2011.

4.    Eco All Blacks
Halfback Andy Ellis and his mate Danny Kamo have created a “grown up” garden, making a statement about the impact we as humans are having on the environment and the planet’s natural resources.

5.    Up-and-comers
New Zealand’s tertiary students competing for the coveted Student Designer of the Year.

6.    Flashbacks
Lincoln University students using imagery from traditional board games and even ‘80s video games to evoke childhood memories in their garden; creating New Zealand’s 21st Century quarter-acre paradise –  in the sky!

7.    Top guns
Gardens by international designers Chris Beardshaw from England and Japan’s Koji Ninomiya.

8.    Uniquely New Zealand
Te Waipounamu Garden – a traditional Maori garden dispels myths and answers the question: What is a traditional New Zealand garden?

9.    A great Kiwi ‘build off’
Some of New Zealand’s best landscape artists are put through their paces in The Great North and South Landscape Build-off, competing to build a mirror image garden at Ellerslie with the emphasis on using “local materials for local projects.”

10.    Ice Garden
This features a two-metre high towering iceberg and evolves over the five days to give Show visitors a full sensory experience of being in the Antarctic.

With a passion for the ‘Sunny Season’ generally I try and pack in as much as possible! High on my agenda are those special activities that are exclusive to the summer months. So, to maximise what’s left of the 09/10 summer and to fill in the next few weeks with some serious summer fun – I have set out to search for what seasonal activities are available right now…

Rafting on the Rangitata river

1.    Rafting – Rangitata Rafts

Can you think of a better way to spend a summer’s day than cruising down a glacier fed river with a Maori name that means ‘River from the Sky’? A couple of weeks ago I was lucky enough to do just that! The day was magic – starting with my pick up from Christchurch, followed by an early yummy lunch (included in the price!), we got gear and safety procedured up before jumping in the rafts for an awesome 2.5hours on the river!
Here are my highlights:

• 

  Where's the raft gone?

The breathtaking Central South Island scenery
• Feeling safe in the hands of our expert guide
• Experiencing our raft flipping over – and loving it!
• Jumping of the 20 meter jump rock!
• The well earned BBQ at the end (also included in the price!)
• The great kiwi hospitality from entire Rangitata crew
• Viewing photos together at the end (a photographer rafts too) and seeing your face through the grade 5 rapids!
• PLUS: There is on site accommodation if you would like to stay a night (or two) and explore the area.

You have until the beginning of May to get this activity in before the end of the season.

2.    Learning to Surf – Pacific Surfari

Surfing is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, why? Perhaps because it boasts benefits to your mind, body and soul! Definitely one to be most enjoyed in summer, Pacific Surfari surf school is based on the beach at New Brighton and Sumner in Christchurch.
The surf school is open until the end of April, however if you are super keen they will take you out in winter.

Glacier Explorers in Aoraki/Mount Cook

3.    Glacier Cruise – Glacier Explorers

The only tour of its kind in New Zealand, and one of only three in the world! Travelling by boat you can get close to towering ice cliffs and huge floating icebergs on the Tasman glacier – New Zealand’s largest glacier. How many people can say they have viewed, touched and tasted 500 year old ice?! Dan did this last month – read his blog.
You have until the end of May to get this activity in before the end of the season.

4.    Discovering Quail Island – Quail Island Adventures

Within Lyttelton harbour you can find a scenic island with a fascinating history. From quarantine station, to Antarctic sled dog training area, this island is also home to 8 shipwrecks! Be sure to take your lunch and swimming togs with you for a great family day out! If you are taking the kids be sure to enquire about the TREASURE HUNT – this runs every year from December to the end of March.
You have until the end of April to get this activity in before the end of the season.

Hiking New Zealand

5.    Guided Tramping – Hiking New Zealand

Summer activities are all about enjoying the great outdoors! What better way to get close to nature than on foot, and with an experienced guide to show you all the hidden treasures of Canterbury’s big backyard! Find glow-worms in hidden caves, cheeky keas in the mountains, dolphins, seals and penguins on lonely beaches.
You have until the end of May to get this activity in before the end of the season.

6.    Enjoying Summer Wine – Summer Love

Summer Love from Melton Estate

This unique Sparkling Riesling with a touch of Pinot Noir for colour – is an absolute delight! Released around July every year from Melton Estate, this sweet, refreshing wine at only 6% alcohol is the perfect accompany to a light summers lunch, a special breakfast (think Cup Day style!) or even just one it own. They are also recent winners of the ‘Consumers Choice’ winners of the TIZwine.com review. Check out the Melton Estate $15 Wine Tasting & Food Platter deal.
Summer Love is available until stock runs out! This year Melton Estate hopes it will last until Mothers Day in May.


The season is almost over, my advice? Get in quick! For more ideas on what to see and do in the Canterbury region check out christchurchnz.com/what-to-see-and-do.aspx

Aescleah Hawkins on board a Black Cat Cruises vessel

Christchurch’s Paul Bingham has done more than put his own walking shoes behind the upcoming “Hector’s Dolphins Walk,” organised by conservation-minded Christchurch student Aescleah Hawkins. He’s found a way to make it easy for others passionate about their local endangered species to make a difference as well – with or without walking.

Bingham, who is the Managing Director of Black Cat Cruises, has established an on-line auction where locals and tourists alike can bid on activities throughout the South Island – with proceeds benefitting this special cause.

“We got involved to draw attention to just how rare Hector’s dolphins now are. Black Cat only exists because of our partnership with the dolphins and the unique marine environment that we operate in. We give people the opportunity to experience Hector’s dolphins, and we are committed to protecting the dolphins.  When the opportunity came up to take part in Aescleah’s walk for Hector’s, we got right behind it, as part of our ongoing support for the conservation of this endangered and treasured species.” he says.

On March 4-6, Bingham will join Hawkins and 10 others on the three-day, 42-kilometre awareness raising mission, taking them from Lyttelton to Akaroa. They aim to raise $36,000 to benefit WWF’s Stop the Extinction campaign and spread the message of the urgent need to protect Hector’s dolphins. The walkers are being guided by Tuatara Tours.

Aescleah Hawkins commented: “We are walking to Akaroa because that’s one of the places where Hector’s dolphins live. I hope that we can raise people’s awareness that the dolphins are now endangered, and we need to save them. Hector’s dolphins are just amazing, wonderful animals and we can’t let them go extinct.  I want to see change come about, from our walk.”

Hector’s dolphins lives only in New Zealand’s coastal waters and numbers are estimated at 7000 which makes them one of the rarest marine dolphins in the world and ranked as ‘endangered’ on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) 1 Red List of Threatened Species.

WWF New Zealand is the local office of the WWF International Network, the world’s largest and most experienced independent conservation organisation.

WWF fully supports Aescleah to take action to save the threatened Hector’s dolphin. And so can you. To make a donation to Aescleah’s Walk for Hector’s, or to find out more, go to: givealittle.co.nz

Now that I’m reaching the later years in my twenties it feels like it’s time to make some serious decisions (and have some serious fun) before my life becomes all about satisfying my parent’s wishes of paying the mortgage and raising their grand-kids. I started by making a list of the things I really want to do before I hit 30… and yesterday I ticked the first one off!

1. Bungy Jump – TICK!

My first every bungy jump was off the 135 year old Waiau Ferry Bridge just out of Hanmer Springs with the team at Thrillseekers Adventures. Having 2 glasses of Waipara Hills Sauv prior to the jump didn’t help calm the absolute sheer terror I was feeling and I’m still in a state of shock that I actually managed to coerce myself and didn’t need a helpful push. It was made easier with kind words from the team (and other jumpers), the beautiful view (which to be honest was a bit of a blur) and the knowledge that it would all be over quickly! 

2. Sky dive

Whose list isn’t this on? Now that I’ve jumped off a bridge the next logical thing to do is jump out of a plane. I don’t know how my body will feel travelling at 200kmph but I’m willing to give it a try – and what’s more calming than having a backdrop of the Southern Alps, Canterbury Plains and Pacific Ocean.

3. Ski all 18 Canterbury Ski Areas

I find the Winter Olympics extremely compelling to watch and they’ve inspired me to test the slopes in my own backyard. With 18 ski areas in the Canterbury region it’s a goal that might take a couple of seasons to tick off – and might mean sore knees, chapped lips and will require lots of mulled wine!

4. Learn to Surf

This is on my New Years Resolution list every year and then every summer I blame my lack of upper body strength for the reason that this year isn’t the year that my surfing career is going to take off. Having just gotten back into the gym after a small hiatus I think that Sumner beach better watch out in the 2010/11 summer!

5. Walk the Banks Peninsula Track

Rising in popularity over the past few years and a definite on my list is the Banks Peninsula Track. The full walk is 35kms and takes somewhere between 2-4 days. Having spent quite a bit of time in the area it really does sound like a wonderful way to see the best of Banks Peninsula – lush native bush, beech forest, waterfalls, birdsong, open pasture and stunning views!

6.  Go to a HUGE sports event

How lucky am I that next year New Zealand is hosting the Rugby World Cup 2011! There are some fantastic teams playing right here in Christchurch – all going to plan I’ll be watching our mighty All Blacks beat England in the quarter finals at Stadium Christchurch on the 9 Oct 2011.. now just need to get my hands on some tickets!

7. Catch a Crayfish in Kaikoura

I blame this one on my family’s love (slash obsession) of seafood. With a father who spends a lot of time fly fishing in Central Otago and helped me catch my first flounder off a jetty in the Catlins, I think it’s time he saw me graduate into the big leagues. What better way to do it than in the town that is New Zealand’s home of seafood, Kaikoura, and catching one of the yummiest delicacies? 

8. Take my Cousin on a Wine Tour of Waipara

Last year my cousin (who lives in California) took me on a wine tour of Napa Valley. I’d love to show her why Christchurch and the South Island were named a “Great Wine Capital” and that our taste is right up there with Consentino’s “The Poet”. In a perfect world this tour involves traveling via Limousine and definitely includes stops at Pegasus Bay Winery and Mud House Winery. 

9. Touch an iceberg

There are only 3 places in the world you can do this – and one is Glacier Explorers in Canterbury at Mount Cook. 

10. What else…

My list could go on and on, but to be kind I’ve stopped at 10. A couple of others that don’t really need elaboration are to be on ‘The Apprentice’, raise chickens, buy everyone at the bar a drink, get my MBA (probably won’t be before I’m 30 though!), shower in a waterfall, make my first million and buy some incredibly expensive shoes.

Biking to Hanmer Springs

From Waipara, 78.7km

Hanmer Springs and Hurunui rate among my favourite places in the world. It’s a combination of good memories, magical landscapes and the fact I can get there on my bike in one day from Christchurch. With a hot date at “The Spa at Hanmer Springs,” not to mention a wee appointment on the Waiau Gorge bungy platform, I split the trip in half. This meant parking my car at Waipara’s Mud House Winery and biking into the Hurunui hills (at this point feeling like the luckiest person in the world).

Over 78.7km I hoped to get to Hanmer Springs by midday. At my 7:30am departure Waipara was 20 degrees, so hard to imagine a better day from the start. The Hurunui hills were stunning against a sheer blue sky; coming from flat and tropical Florida I couldn’t imagine a more exotic horizon.

Hanmer Springs and Hurunui

There’s nothing nicer than being warm – even on a bike – the weather was absolutely inspiring and the traffic was polite. Hardly better conditions for a bike ride, first to Waikari, then on past famous Frog Rock, an H20 refill in Culverden and then a cruise (given Culverden’s 42km milestone and its ’second half’ sensation) to Hanmer Springs.

Why bike to Hanmer Springs? My 5 best reasons.

Bungy jumping – even more of a thrill than I thought (why do it in Hanmer Springs? it changes your perspective forever on a place – and a bridge – you thought you knew so well!)

Bungy jumping in Hanmer Springs

Lunch at the Heritage – starring Amuri salmon and the most gorgeous roast potatoes

The Spa at Hanmer Springs treatment – nothing like an alpine aqua facial to soothe bikers’ windburn

HS Thermal Pools – and hydroslides..hoo yeah

The Waiau Gorge view (pictured below)

Waiau Gorge

Deal of the day?

My $2.50 cola slushy at the Log Cabin

What I’ll write home about?

The Heritage lunch with a menu sourced from all local produce, black currant jam to Amuri walnuts – after 78km I had to pinch myself before picking up the fork.

And catching up with Lisa from Amuri Estate Retreat. If you haven’t seen their olive groves then you haven’t really been to Hanmer Springs.

I love Christchurch – from Hagley Park, our riverside cafes and the Cultural Precinct, to the cobbled boulevards and laneways of boutique shops (and the Twisted  Hop). And best of all – within 45 minutes of the city centre – in any direction – you can explore the rim of an ancient volcano, the buzz of Lyttelton market or the beauty of the foothills to the Southern Alps. And there’s never a traffic jam, not even a polite queue, between your 5pm self and the surrounding attractions.

These are my top five choices of ‘quick trips’ close to town – for you to discover, or debate. The point being – there’s so much out there. And it’s all so CLOSE.

Please add to the list and post your own!

1. Motukarara and “The Rail Trail”

At 7:30am Saturday morning I pulled out of our drive in St Albans; at 8:15 I was a world away, surrounded by hills and low cloud that made the landscape even more beautiful. Arriving at the Blue Duck Café (Motukarara’s landmark) I took my bike out of the boot, because the ride between here and Little River can be described in many wonderful ways – firstly, “flat!” Pedalling toward Little River I was on my own for 24km because not only is it a “well worth the trip” Saturday morning excursion, it’s also a “well kept secret.” Just like local Taurikura Lodge – I pedal past the marked turnoff, wondering whether dinner tonight is Canterbury lamb or Akaroa salmon.

Through Kaituna Valley and running parallel to the local “Rail Trail,” the road was quiet enough to get lost in thought, and it soon got warm enough to think there was no better place to be on a Saturday morning. The quiet buzz of Little River, with its gallery, shop and café, was a welcome sight and perfect turnaround point – 18km short of hitting the “hilltop” which separates this part of Banks Peninsula from views to Akaroa.

Back to Motukarara, I decided to make the most of this part of my weekend and swapped cycling cleats for trainers, and parked the car this time at the start of the “Rail Trail.” Clearly signposted, I was able to choose my distance, and once again, found myself huffing and puffing…but in a peaceful way, thanks to my spectacular surrounds.

Motukarara and Banks Peninsula – a welcome, wonderful escape at the end of the week, and considering what a scenic 45-minute drive got me here, I’ll do it again (and again).

Check out more great ideas for exploring Banks Peninsula:

http://www.christchurchnz.com/explore/itineraries/self-drive-itineraries/banks-peninsula’s-best.aspx

http://www.christchurchnz.com/what-to-see-and-do/listings/banks-peninsula-track.aspx

http://www.christchurchnz.com/explore/itineraries/self-drive-itineraries/boutique-bites.aspx

Driving directions:

From the city centre, head south on Colombo Street, and at Dyers Pass roundabout, go straight up Dyers Pass Road. The Sign of the Takahe will be on your left, and you’ll keep going up, up and around, as the road winds with sweeping views of the city, and soon (15 minutes’ drive from city) you’ll be at the Sign of the Kiwi. You have two options – to the right along Summit Road, stark and spectacular, or over and down, into Governors Bay. This is my favourite, since from Governors Bay the harbourside road undulates in and out of bays until you’re at the bottom of Gebbies Pass. When you see the turnoff to Living Springs you don’t have far to go. Veer right when the sign says “Motukarara/Akaroa” and go over the pass – your point of arrival is marked by the “Blue Duck Café” sign. Motukarara itself is 1km back up the road (to your right) however this café is synonymous with a trip to the small town.

The possibilities are endless – so these are just a start! Add your own – all summer!

1. Kaiwara Klassic

7 February 2010. Culverden to Cheviot, Hurunui District.

Sponsored by the local Lions Club, how could you not love a local event that ends with a hearty Kiwi BBQ, the fellas flipping sausages and the ladies, with a smile, helping you navigate through the salad queue?

For the entry fee, not only do you get the best nosh up all summer, you get the best (most fun, most scenic) mountain bike race this side of the Hurunui hills. There aren’t many days in the year when you can see this side of a small country town – the warmth, the hospitality, the after-match feed. If you do one mountain bike event this summer, this should be it. It’s a community event that radiates warmth and welcome – and the ride is fun, too. For all levels of ability.

2. Spring Challenge

September 2010. Location tbc.

It’s not until springtime but anyone who has done one of Nathan Fa’avae’s “ten events” will tell you – put it on the calendar now. Nathan brings years of adventure racing experience and an inspirational approach to managing events for elite athletes as well as aspiring ones. And – lucky for women – he’s made these all women’s adventure races his signature event. Since rumour has it Ashburton could win the bid for the 2010 race (2007 was Hanmer Springs and 2008 was Kaikoura) – it’s time to lobby (e-mail, and e-mail again) to let him know how much we’d love to see a Spring Challenge close to Christchurch. For well and truly all ages and abilities – but only for women!

3. Rainbow Rage

20 March 2010. St Arnaud to Hanmer Springs.

I’ve never done the Rainbow Rage – but I’ve always wanted to. A point to point race is about adventure – and this is a spectacular landscape just waiting to be toured on two wheels. Pack a picnic and make the trek. Xxxkm – a long way – you can try to set a record, or just take your time.

4. Cust Charity Classic

28 February 2010. When there’s a good cause, there’s no excuses. Cust is lovely – make it a sprint, or stop in at the café – either way, it’s a day out not to be missed. This one’s for the roadies.

5. Mudhouse

23-25 April 2010. This starts with an expo and finishes with bike polo (really?) and has some great events sandwiched in the middle on Saturday. Who needs an excuse to come to the Mudhouse? But just in case…

And special mention goes to a new event at Terrace Downs – you’ll need more than two wheels – more here!