Picturesque Hanmer Springs is an Alpine Thermal Village surrounded by an expanse of mountains and forest-clad hills.
The drive north from Christchurch of 135km (84 miles) will take you into the Waipara District, one of New Zealand's world renowned wine growing regions. From here, travelling inland takes you up through the Weka Pass and its interesting limestone formations and outcrops (look for out Frog Rock on your return journey!).
After stopping at the historic Hurunui Pub (for a non-alcoholic drink of coarse!) and crossing the river of the same name, you will enter the Culverdon Basin prior to weaving your way up through the Waiau Gorge, and then crossing Thrillseekers Canyon before descending into the Hamner plateau.