Travel Planner for G&Y

Just south of Nelson, the town of Richmond is a service centre for the farms, orchards and vineyards of the Waimea Plains. Pip fruit and berries are grown here, as well as hops for the beer industry. Richmond is a peaceful base for the region’s many attractions. From here you can discover wineries, beaches, art galleries, beautiful river valleys and horse treks. There are three national parks close at hand – Nelson Lakes, Abel Tasman and Kahurangi. The nearby Richmond Ranges are a great place for hiking and mountain biking. In winter you can ski at Rainbow Valley. Richmond has a comprehensive shopping area and a good choice of eating places.
Functional facts: Approx. population 2900, information centre, good range of shops and services.

The village of St Arnaud sits at the edge of Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson region, providing an ideal base for people who plan to hike or fish in Nelson Lakes National Park. At the local Department of Conservation visitor centre you can learn about the ecology of honeydew beech forest; the centre can also provide guides to the local walks and treks, some of which take several days to complete. Both Lake Rotoroa and Lake Rotoiti are well known for their fine brown trout. Nearby Rainbow Ski Field is generally open from June to October. St Arnaud has a broad range of accommodation and a choice of eating places. Functional facts: Approx. population 200, limited shopping, service station.

Franz Josef Glacier was first explored in 1865 by geologist Julius von Haast, who named it after the Austrian emperor. The glacier is five kilometres from the town of the same name, and a 20 minute walk will take you to its terminal face. From the glacier car park, you can hike to a choice of lookout points for a bigger view of this awesome river of rice. If you want to actually make contact with the glacier, take a guided ice walk or a heli-hike. Aerial sightseeing is another option. In the town you’ll find plenty of places to stay and eat. At nearby Lake Mapourika there are kayaks for hire.
Functional facts: Approx. population 320, Department of Conservation Visitor Centre, fuel.

Once the site of the Maori pa Mawhera (which means ‘wide spread river mouth’, in reference to the town’s river mouth location), Greymouth is the largest town on the South Island’s west coast. The area has a history of gold mining, which can be appreciated at the local museum and nearby Shantytown. The local brewery is something of a New Zealand legend; it runs tours that include a tasting session. Other Greymouth entertainments include sea fishing, fly fishing, a quayside walk and hiking the Elizabeth Track, which passes through a scenic reserve and old goldmining sites. Around the town you’ll find galleries specialising in pounamu (New Zealand jade).
Functional facts: Approx. population 13,500, i-SITE Visitor Centre, train station.

Named for German geologist Julius von Haast, the Haast area includes three settlements - Haast Junction, Haast Beach and Haast itself. You get the feeling you’re on the edge of the frontier - helicopters fly deer hunters into the rugged ranges and local pubs make a feature of mounted animal heads. The surrounding World Heritage Area is the main attraction here. Everywhere you look, Westland rainforest tumbles across the landscape. Haast entertainments include river safaris, visits to fur seal and penguin colonies, sea fishing, trout fishing, hunting and the drive to Jackson Bay, one of the most remote villages in New Zealand.
Functional facts: Approx. population 300, Department of Conservation Visitor Centre, limited shopping.

Karamea sits at the end of a no-exit highway sandwiched between rainforested hills and the Tasman Sea. The town serves hikers and adventurers who are looking for a taste of New Zealand wilderness. Limestone arch formations are a special feature of the area. You can walk to the Oparara Arch, which spans the Oparara River, or venture further to find the Moria Gate Arch. To see the Honeycomb Hill Caves and Arch, you’ll need to book a guided tour. Karamea is near the southern entrance to the Heaphy Track, a multi-day walk through the Kahurangi National Park. Day walks include the Fenian Track, Mt Stormy and the first leg of the Wangapeka Track.
Functional facts: Approx. population 680, information centre, limited accommodation and shopping.

The west coast settlement of Punakaiki is on the doorstep of the Paparoa National Park, which is full of secret caves, disappearing streams and river gorges. Punakaiki is also the closest population centre to the amazing Pancake Rocks and accompanying blowholes. The rocks are the result of a layering and weathering process; to see the blow holes in action, aim to visit around high tide. At Punakaiki you’ll find a variety of accommodation, from hostels and homestays to self-contained cottages; there’s also a range of eating places and galleries. Local operators provide horse treks, canoe hire, caving, guided walks and rafting adventures.
Functional facts: Approx. population 70, Department of Conservation Visitor Centre, limited shopping.

Westport was first a gold town and then a coal town. The coal mining museum provides a glimpse of what it's like to work underground. Westport is also a centre for outdoor adventures – jet boating, underground rafting, caving, white water rafting and kayaking. Scenic highlights include old coal towns, goldmining relics, forest hikes and coastal walks. There is a seal colony nearby at Cape Foulwind. Depending on the season, there can be up to 100 New Zealand fur seals in the vicinity. Browse the local arts and crafts galleries – much of the work is produced locally.

Functional facts: Approx. population 4850, i-SITE Visitor Centre, good range of shops and services, plentiful accommodation.

Find out more at www.westport.org.nz

Akaroa sits at the edge of a beautiful harbour inside the eroded crater of a huge extinct volcano. Originally a French settlement, the town is elegant and full of character. The streets have French names and local restaurants focus on French cuisine. The French settlers who arrived to establish the town in 1840 thought they were the first colonists of a new French territory, however the Treaty of Waitangi was signed just days before they arrived, which gave Britain sovereignty over the whole of New Zealand. Visit the Akaroa museum and take a self-guided walk to see historic cottages. Harbour cruises provide a chance to view dolphins, penguins and fur seals.
Functional facts: Approx. population 600, information centre, restaurants, bank.

Cheviot is the main town on the coastal route between Amberley and Kaikoura. Named for the Cheviot sheep, it’s clear that the primary local industry is wool growing. The museum depicts the history of the area, including the discovery of moa bones. Cheviot Hill Domain, with its extensive planting of English trees, is a pleasant picnic spot in all seasons. During summer months, Gore Bay on the coast is popular for surfing and both the Hurunui and Waiau Rivers reward fly fishermen with sea-run salmon and trout. If you’re not just passing through, a Cheviot farmstay can introduce you to the delights of sheep mustering, pony riding and other rural entertainments.
Functional facts: Approx. population 400, information board, limited accommodation.

The South Island’s largest city, Christchurch is an entertaining mixture of refined lifestyle and cultural excitement. The tranquil Avon River meanders through the city, historic buildings house a lively arts community and restored trams make it easy for visitors to get around. The first four ships arrived from England to settle Christchurch in 1850, and their legacy lives on in the city’s grand heritage buildings and stately parks. Visit historic sites, museums and art galleries, and enjoy the highly developed restaurant scene. For an unforgettable scenic experience, travel up the Christchurch gondola or go punting on the Avon River.
Functional facts: Approx. population 317,000, international airport, three i-SITE visitor centres.

The friendly village of Geraldine is in the heart of a prosperous farming area. The local people are mostly involved with sheep, cattle, deer, dairy cows, cropping and fruit growing, but the area is also known for its population of artists and crafts people. You can learn about the early history of the town at the Geraldine Historical Society Museum. The town also has a highly regarded vintage car and machinery museum. Another way to appreciate Geraldine is to walk the Historic Town Trail. Just beyond the town, you can visit gardens and artists’ studios. Sporting pursuits include skiing, white water rafting, golf and fishing.
Functional facts: Approx. population 2200, information centre, good range of shops and services.

Situated in the foothills of the Southern Alps, the resort town of Hanmer Springs is an attractive year-round holiday destination for adventure, relaxation and indulgence. Local activities are all about experiencing the beautiful environment. Go forest hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, skiing (in winter), bungy jumping or jet boating. A round of golf (mini or regular) is another option. At the end of the day, head for the thermal reserve to soak in the naturally heated pools – or treat yourself to a range of indulgent spa therapies. There’s a modern shopping centre and plenty of choice when it comes to meal times.
Functional facts: Approx. population 750, visitor’s centre, good range of shops and services.

Lake Tekapo and the other lakes in the Mackenzie Country are a wonderful opaque turquoise colour, the result of glacier-ground rock sediment in the water. The township at the lake’s edge knows how to look after visitors; it has a choice of cafes and several souvenir shops. The exquisite Church of the Good Shepherd is possibly the most photographed church in New Zealand - its altar window perfectly frames Mount Cook. Another photographic opportunity is the sheepdog memorial, which pays tribute to the role of dogs in high country farming. Make the most of the fresh, alpine air on the Lake Tekapo Walkway. On a clear night, you can watch the stars at Mt John Observatory.
Functional facts: Approx. population 300, food store, fuel.

Crouched at the base of the Southern Alps, one and a half hours inland from Christchurch, Methven is a welcoming town for visitors looking for adventure. In winter, it’s a base for snow sport enthusiasts who come to conquer the slopes of nearby Mount Hutt. At other times of the year, activities such as jet boating, sky diving, hot air ballooning and mountain biking are popular. If you enjoy fishing and golf, you won’t be disappointed with Methven. The town offers an excellent choice of eating places and bars. Accommodation ranges from backpacker lodges to character B & Bs.
Functional facts: Approx. population 1070, visitors centre, typical resort town shops and services.

The village of Mount Cook is a comfortable haven in one of the most unforgiving parts of New Zealand. On every side, the Southern Alps scrape the sky. Even in summer, the weather can change in the blink of an eye. The region is only 44 kilometres from the coast, so storms can arrive suddenly from the Tasman Sea to create dangerous conditions for climbers. However you don’t have to be a mountaineer to interact with the stunning scenery; there are various alpine walks beginning near the village, all about three hours return. Flightseeing, tours to the Tasman Glacier and heli-skiing (in winter) are other ways to optimise your time here.
Functional facts: Approx. population 250, Department of Conservation Visitor Centre, limited shopping.

The second largest city in Canterbury, Timaru sits about midway between Christchurch and Dunedin. It has everything you need for a pleasant stopover. Caroline Bay has a safe swimming beach, a maze, a landscaped piazza and walks. A collection of restaurants and cafés links the beach to the main shopping area. If you’re thirsty, consider a tour of the local brewery. The city’s excellent museum has moa-hunter artefacts and all kinds of whaling relics; the art gallery holds the third largest public art collection in the South Island. Timaru has many grand Victorian and Edwardian buildings, constructed in local volcanic bluestone.
Functional facts: Approx. population 27,350, i-SITE Visitor Centre, wide range of shops and services.

The town of Twizel was purpose-built in the 1960s to provide a home for workers involved with the Upper Waitaki Power Scheme. Today it is a well-positioned base for mountain climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, horse trekking and hiking. The peaks and trails of Mount Cook National Park are just up the road. You can fish for salmon and trout in the local rivers, canals and lakes. If you don’t have any luck, call into the salmon farm and buy a fish - fresh or smoked. In summer Twizel’s population more than trebles, as holiday houses and camp grounds fill to capacity.
Functional facts: Approx. population 1140, i-SITE Visitor Centre, good range of shops and accommodation.

The lakeside town of Wanaka can provide you with an appealing mix of fine living, family fun and adventure. It has a high concentration of cafes, restaurants and interesting shops. It’s obvious that the Wanaka district is nicely obsessed with aviation. At the airport you can arrange to go flightseeing or sky diving, and every two years the town hosts a spectacular airshow revolving around classic miliary aircraft. Winter is a busy time in Wanaka, as the town fills up with snow sports fans. Local snow venues include Treble Cone, Cardrona and Waiorau. Wanaka is also a handy base if you want to hike or climb in Mount Aspiring National Park.
Functional facts: Approx. population 3500, i-SITE Visitor Centre, wide range of accommodation.

One of the most picturesque settlements in New Zealand, Arrowtown sits alongside the Arrow River – once the scene of a frantic gold rush. The town retains its historic character – there are more than 60 restored buildings from the 19th century. The gold days are long over (although you can still pan for gold in the river with some success), so Arrowtown's focus is on hosting visitors. Explore the Chinese miners’ settlement, visit the Lake District Museum, catch a few holes at the challenging local golf course or take a 4WD journey to Macetown, a ghost town accessible only by wagon track. Arrowtown has a range of cafes, restaurants and appealing shops.
Functional facts: Approx. population 1700, information centre, fuel.

The rustic town of Glenorchy, at the western end of Lake Wakatipu, is set against a background of native beech forest and towering snow-capped mountains. It is known as the gateway to the Routeburn, Caples, Greenstone, Rees and Dart Valley walking tracks. It’s also the place to organise jet boating and kayaking on the Dart River. Call into the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre if you plan to walk any of the tracks. Horse trekking in the area comes highly recommended. The town has an assortment of lodges, one hotel and a few cafés. It’s a good idea to buy hiking supplies in nearby Queenstown.
Functional facts: Approx. population 220, Department of Conservation Visitor Centre, fuel.

The resort town of Queenstown is sophisticated and fantastically scenic. Its lake and mountain landscape is suited to almost any kind of adventure; but Queenstown is just as well known as a place for indulgence. The area’s history is intertwined with gold. In 1862, two sheep shearers struck it rich at the edge of the Shotover River. The ensuing gold rush town was named Queenstown because '...it was fit for Queen Victoria'. Adventure activities include snow sports, bungy jumping, jet boating, horse trekking and river rafting. Indulgent experiences include exceptional food and wine, lake cruises, spa treatments, boutique shopping and leisurely games of golf.
Functional facts: Approx. population 7500, i-SITE Visitor Centre, domestic airport.

Alexandra is an attractive oasis of trees and civilisation within the weathered rock landscape of Central Otago. The town boomed during the late 1800s, when huge gold dredges worked the Clutha River. The most successful dredge was the Dunedin, which extracted an estimated 528kg of gold. Today Alexandra owes its prosperity to orchardists and wine makers. On foot or on a mountain bike, you can follow gold miner’s trails in the hills to appreciate the unique beauty of the area. You can also visit Pinot Noir vineyards and discover gold mining history at the museum. In summer and autumn, enjoy local apricots, peaches, cherries and apples.
Functional facts: Approx. population 4,500, i-SITE Visitor Centre, full range of shops and services.

Located on the shores of Lake Dunstan, Cromwell has the appearance of a modern town, but its history stretches back to the gold rush days of the 1800s. Cromwell underwent a major transformation in the 1980s, when parts of the town were flooded (on purpose) during the construction of the Clyde Dam power station. The best of the town’s historic buildings were relocated to create ‘Old Cromwell Town’ – a feature attraction for visitors. Today, Cromwell’s major industry is fruit growing – if you’re here over summer, roadside fruit stalls are a delicious temptation. Old gold mining sites include Bannockburn and Bendigo, where you’ll find ruins of miners’ cottages.
Functional facts: Approx. population 2700, i-SITE Visitor Centre, shopping centre.