Waipara Valley Attractions and Activities

Although many guests like to just stay put and relax, Dry Paddocks is the perfect location to use as a base, and venture forth to discover more of the Christchurch and wider Canterbury district.

One night is simply not enough to enjoy all Dry Paddocks and the Waipara Valley has to offer.

Here are some suggestions, and don’t forget we are happy to personalise an itinerary for you.

Arrive, settle in, make a coffee or take a wine and chill out surveying the countryside from the mound. If it’s hot have a swim, or you may have pre-booked a massage. Relaxed, you could dine in with pre-prepared gourmet meals accompanied by local wines.

Most of our guests come to enjoy the vineyards and sample the award winning wines. We have maps available to help in your planning and make sure you reach your destination, and there is a local food and Wine Trail as well.

So after a leisurely breakfast, set off to explore the local vineyards which are only minutes away and don’t forget to allow enough time to partake in a long vineyard lunch so you can enjoy our region’s superb food and wine.

A forty-five minute drive will take you to Hanmer Springs, New Zealand’s premier alpine spa village. The outdoor thermal pool complex is popular all year round. There is a network of over 50km of walking tracks and mountain biking trails, bungy jumping, jet boat rides or you can treat your body at the spa. On return cook up a storm in Dry Paddock’s well appointed kitchen, or, sample what the award winning Nor’wester café has to offer.

Whale watching at Kaikoura is a great days excursion from Dry Paddocks and is only one and a half hours drive. Take the Alpine Pacific Triangle, one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives, encompassing spectacular coastal scenery, serene lakes, cloud piercing mountains, sculptured limestone, tumbling rivers and shady forests.

Golf enthusiasts can choose between world class championship courses or charming country courses.

Sea and salmon fishing are nearby, and we are close to trout fishing rivers.

There are numerous local bush and beach walks to cater for different fitness levels on our doorstep.

We are happy to organise a personalized tour for you to accommodate your interests.

For those winter breaks Dry Paddocks is situated approximately one hour’s drive from Porters Pass and Hanmer Springs Amuri ski fields.

Hanmer Springs Ski area caters for all stages of skier’s it has three basins 10% for beginners, 60% for intermediate and 30% for advanced levels. A shuttle operates from Hanmer Springs.

Porters Pass offers extensive terrain and is perfect for all skill levels with its wide range of trails. Big Mamma, the skifield’s signature run is the longest and steepest in the southern hemisphere at 640 vertical metres.

Relax in the French tub at the end of an invigorating day in the mountains or, feet up by the gas fire with your complimentary local wine.

Annual Events to note include –

Waipara Wine and Food Celebration, held at the end of February. Taste local food and sample our award winning wines under the trees of the charming Glenmark Church.

Culverden Christmas Country Fete, held on the last Thursday in October in the grounds of Wynard. Over 190 stalls feature the finest arts and crafts, with good food and local wine. Gate admission on the day is cash only or, pre-paid tickets.

The Fete is followed by Art In The Garden, open from 4.30-7.30pm, then Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm. This stunning outdoor sculpture exhibition is held annually in Penny Zino’s, 7 acre garden of National Significance. There is a cash only gate fee. Workshops on a variety of artistic pursuits are offered over the weekend. Food is also available.

The Mudhouse Winery host several summertime concerts, please contact us for further details, or go to our links page.