Venture into the Great Outdoors

This alpine spa village is the ideal holiday destination in summer, especially for those wanting to avoid the Canterbury easterly winds. Nestled between rivers and mountains, Hanmer Springs has plenty on offer for those wanting to experience the outdoors, well away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Hanmer Springs has become renowned for its heart and adrenalin pumping activities.  The historic ‘ferry bridge’ over the Waiau River is home to bungy jumping, for those keen souls wanting to launch themselves off a bridge with rushing water greeting them from below.  Equally exciting, but a little less heart stopping, is a jet boat ride, raft or fun yakking trip down the rapids between the austere walls of the gorge.  But if you pride yourself on accuracy, test this out by taking aim on a clay bird shoot, or if you want to hurt someone without getting arrested for it, grab your paint ball gun and take a pot shot at your mates.

But if it’s solitude and peace you’re after, there are excellent freshwater fishing spots.  Rivers range from large braided systems, like the Waiau, Clarence, Hanmer and Hope Rivers, to secluded mountain streams.  Local trout habitats are in great condition, with big fish there for the taking.

Quad biking safaris are very popular in the summer months.  Quad tours depart three times a day, where you are provided with transport to the farm and protective clothing.  The safari will take you through spectacular hill country, native bush, river crossings, hill climbs, and you will be treated to panoramic scenery.

Mountain biking at its best is on offer at Hanmer Springs.  The hills around the alpine village offer ever-changing scenic views, as well as uphill challenges, exhilarating downhills, rapid forest trails and mile and miles of cruising trails to explore.

Free and at your door-step are over 50 kilometres of walking tracks, ranging from short half hour jaunts to half and full-day tramps.

The great outdoors at Hanmer Springs has something for everyone, and for every budget!

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