Inland Scenic Route

Stretching from Amberley to the Lewis Pass, the Inland Scenic Route (State Highway 7) cuts through the heart of North Canterbury, offering a quieter, more intimate alternative to the coastal highway. This winding road unfurls through rolling foothills, past braided rivers and towering mountain vistas, with the Southern Alps looming ever closer. It's a drive that rewards those who take their time, with pockets of gold-rush history, hot springs, and alpine villages waiting to be discovered.

Highlights & What to See

• Waipara Valley – New Zealand's largest wine region by volume, known for its pinot noir, riesling, and vibrant food scene. Stop for tastings at cellar doors like Mud House or Pegasus Bay.
• Weheka / Boyle River Outdoor Education Centre – A base for hiking into the Lewis Pass National Reserve, with short walks to limestone bluffs and the Boyle River swingbridge.
• Marble Hill – A DOC picnic area and start of the Marble Hill Walkway, winding through beech forest alongside the Boyle River.
• Lewis Pass Tops – A short, steep climb rewards with panoramic views of the alpine divide and the Canterbury Plains stretching to the sea.
• Hanmer Springs – At the route's northern end, this alpine village is famous for its thermal pools, spa treatments, and outdoor adventures like bungy jumping and mountain biking.
• Waiau Ferry Bridge – Historic one-lane bridge over the Waiau River, a remnant of early 20th-century engineering.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day to drive the Inland Scenic Route (approximately 150 km) with stops. Start early from Christchurch or Kaikōura, spend a few hours exploring Waipara Valley wineries, then continue north with hikes and photo stops. Overnight in Hanmer Springs to soak in the hot pools and enjoy the village's relaxed vibe. If you're short on time, the drive itself takes about 2 hours without stops, but you'll miss the best bits.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kaikōura – A 1.5-hour detour east from Waipara, famous for whale watching, seal colonies, and seafood.
• Christchurch – The gateway city, just south of the route's start, with its revitalised city centre, botanic gardens, and Antarctic attractions.
• Lewis Pass National Reserve – Extends the journey into the Southern Alps, with backcountry tramping and the stunning Nina Valley.
• Molesworth Station – New Zealand's largest farm, accessible via a 4WD track from the route, offering rugged high-country scenery (check access conditions).
• Blenheim & Marlborough – A 2-hour drive north from Hanmer Springs, renowned for sauvignon blanc and the Queen Charlotte Track.

Please check official sources for current details.