Inland Scenic Route

An alternative to the main tourist trail, the Inland Scenic Route between Amberley and Geraldine is a great mix of rural vistas and alpine scenery.

AMBERLEY: The small North Canterbury settlement of Amberley marks the beginning of the Inland Scenic Route. This small service centre is the gateway to the Waipara Wine Region, globally recognised as one of the top "new world" wine growing regions.

RANGIORA & OXFORD: Rangiora is the largest town in North Canterbury, and a hub for the large farming community in North Canterbury. Activities in and around Rangiora and Oxford include walks in Mt Thomas and swimming and picnicking at the Ashley Gorge, and horse riding at Kowhai Equestrian centre.

METHVEN & MT HUTT: From Oxford the route heads towards the Southern Alps, to some of the South Island's best skiing and snowboarding. Methven is a ski town located close to the areas top ski fields, including Mt Hutt - one of the largest commercial ski areas in the South Island. Take some time out in Methven at the famed Blue Pub, or hit the slopes (in season) for some great riding. During summer months activities include fly fishing and jetboating in the Rakaia Gorge, and hiking the various mountain walks.

GERALDINE: Geraldine is the last town on the Inland Scenic Route. This quaint rural township welcomes visitors with wide tree-lined streets, and renovated historic buildings. A pleasant place to spend a day, Geraldine has a number of cafes, and is also home to the famous Barkers juice company.

From Geraldine your journey can fork in three different directions: Follow State Highway 79 to Fairlie (and then Mt Cook and Queenstown); head east towards Timaru (and Dunedin); or north to Christchurch.