The Canterbury and Marlborough Roadie

The northern tip of the South Island is a great spot to spend a few days away from the rat race. Yes, Canterbury is home to more than the Canterbury Crusaders. In Marlborough, it’s sav blanc, seafood and scenery all the way.

Of course you could drive from Christchurch to Blenheim in one day, but to really explore this part of the world, take your time and spend a few days on the road.

Christchurch

Flying into Christchurch and driving into the Garden City, you’d have no idea anything had gone awry over the last few years. In Hagley Park people are sprawled out in the sun; there are sports games and dog walkers.

The CBD is no longer a heap of rubble. There are vast open spaces – a shock for the first-time visitor or those of us who haven’t visited since before the February 2011 earthquake – but that quickly wears off when you talk to the locals. They don’t see the chaos any more. They’ve picked up the pieces and are getting on with life. And there’s still plenty to do in and around the city, with bars and restaurants popping up around town. Set up a base at the Ibis Christchurch and spend a few days exploring before heading north.

Hanmer Springs

These natural springs bubble up in several pools, all at different temperatures, so you can visit at any time of the year. Bring your jandals to hop around in the winter. There’s also a day spa on site, with a menu of cocktail body scrubs – yes mojitos and cosmopolitans – that you’ll want to lick off your skin!

Once you’re scrubbed squeaky clean, check out Hanmer’s local wineries. Marble Point has a brand new restaurant on the edge of the Waiau River with sweeping views to the mountains. Potential brides should book asap! Pegasus Bay Winery also makes for a great lunch spot.

After a long lunch and a few wine tastings under your belt, there’s no point getting back on the road. The Heritage Hanmer Springs hotel has plenty of country charm and is quite close to the Thermal Reserve.