Canterbury

The Great Alpine Highway Region - "A Journey of Discovery and Adventure".

One of the most direct routes from Coast to Coast is “The Great Alpine Highway SH73“ which opens up a whole region of diverse landscapes and climate, lakes, braided rivers, natural beauty, unique townships, magnificent views of the Southern Alps.

The Region's boundaries run from Yaldhurst on the edge of Christchurch through to Kumara on the South Island's West Coast and between the Waimakariri and Rakaia Rivers. All of this offers a playground of discovery and adventure - all year round for everyone with activities including rock climbing, skiing, jet boating, hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, golf - to name a few.

Spend some time enroute also in the many townships offering their own identity - through their history or visit the galleries, historic homesteads, hotels, heritage railway station, memorials and information centres. Enhance your stay in the region and enjoy the hospitality, views and comfort through the many accommodation places ranging from camping grounds, cosy backpackers, motels to homely bed and breakfast, lodges and retreats with restaurants and bars available. Taste the local cuisine through the many cafes, restaurants, hotels and wineries with prices to suit any budget.

Regional Highlights

Waimakariri, Rakaia and Taramakau Rivers
Otira Viaduct
Arthur's Pass National Park
Korowai Torlesse Tussockland Park, Craigieburn Forest Park
Castle Hill Rocks (Kura Tawhiti), Cave Stream Reserve,
Lake Coleridge Basin, Waterfalls
Tranz Alpine Train
Horse Trekking, Farms Shows, 4wd Safaris, Jetboating, Golf Courses
Historic Homestead, Hotels and buildings
Skifields, Fishing, Hunting, Walking, Climbing, Mountain Biking
Unique Accommodation places, High Country Retreats
Cafes, Restaurants, Bakeries and Wineries

At times and seasons during the year you may come across festivals and events including art and craft exhibitions, special steam train excursions, A&P Shows, Fishing and Hunting or the annual Coast to Coast Event which takes the competitor from the west coast through to east by means of running, cycling and kayaking the mighty braided river over two day or if you are brave - in one day.

So whether your interest is the natural beauty and wildlife, adventure, culture or history you will be able to find this and more in the Great Alpine Highway Region.

Images Provided by
Great Alpine Highway Group Inc.