Alpine Pacific Triangle

The Alpine Pacific Triangle is a triangular 370km touring route, taking in the best scenery and experiences of northern Canterbury and the Hurunui. Enveloping the Waipara Wine Region, Kaikoura, and thermal retreat of Hanmer Springs, the Alpine Pacific Triangle encompasses three distinct and unforgettable locations.

KAIKOURA: Kaikoura is the South Island's premier eco-tourism destination. Famed for its stunning coastal scenery, the Kaikoura mountain ranges plunge dramatically into the sea with the main highway hugging the coastline between. Eco tourism is Kaikoura's main industry, with local operators providing opportunities to view whales, dolphins, albatross and seals up close. Kaikoura is also widely known for its namesake ("meal of crayfish") and is the best place in New Zealand to dine on freshly caught crayfish (lobster).

HANMER SPRINGS: Inland you will find the thermal retreat of Hanmer Springs. Internationally known for its natural thermal springs, Hanmer Springs is a quaint alpine township nestled amongst mountain ranges and pine plantations. A year round tourist Mecca, most tourists visit Hanmer Springs to bathe in the natural hot springs. Other activities include hiking, mountain biking and skiing in the winter.

WAIPARA WINE REGION: Waipara is one of the worlds up and coming wine regions, leading the way for "new world" wineries. Known especially for its Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc the Waipara Wine Region produces over 200,000 cases per year. Once a sheep farming region, the Waipara Valley is now carpeted in vines, making it a picturesque location to spend an afternoon sampling the region's finest wines.