A spectacular winter wonderland: Tekapo
When Lake Tekapo’s crisp air cuts through glimmers of sunshine while you sit surrounded by snow-capped mountains, you’ll know it’s the perfect winter escape. The alpine village’s perfect ambience is thanks to its striking glacial lake, warm hospitality, and range of activities. Spend a weekend or longer, make it your base for day […]
6 ways to spend winter in Hanmer Springs
1. Catch the winter festival Immerse yourself in the alpine village as Hanmer Springs transforms into a winter wonderland from now until 18 July. With an ice rink, adult stargazing and grazing experiences, family fairy light walks, night light tree top climbing, and a bouncy castle, don’t miss New Zealand’s biggest winter festival. […]
Right on track
At 120 years old, the iconic Dunedin Railway Station was ready for a new lease of life, and the beautiful building recently got just that. After a five-year hibernation in the wake of Covid-19, the newly rebranded Dunedin Railway Station is open for business as the starting point for the region’s globally renowned […]
Hanmer’s alpine winter festival
Returning for its fifth year, July’s MainPower Alpine Winter Festival in Hanmer Springs is set to build on 2025’s success, which drew a whopping 30,000 visitors to the village. Want to light up your winter nights? Head to Hanmer Springs from 4 to 18 July, where a mischievous mountain gnome will bring a […]
Glo show
Wellington’s iconic World of WearableArt experience returns from 17 September to 4 October, and after a three-year hiatus, crowd-favourite category Bizarre Bra is back. Mark your calendars and plan your trip to the capital now. The 2026 WOW show: GLO! will transform Wellington’s TSB Arena into six charged creative worlds, each exploring a […]
A race of resilience at Hanmer Half marathon
On Saturday 2 May, Dave Wilmott lined up for the 2026 Four Square Hanmer Half Marathon, after being told he wouldn’t walk again. His story is what the iconic race stands for – resilience. When Christchurch runner Dave Willmott traced the trail that weaves through some of Hanmer’s most iconic landscapes, he was […]
History where it happened: West Coast
Discover big stories, up close with the Tohu Whenua guide to the West Coast. Treasure seeker towns, snowcapped views and an ancient lagoon are just some of the must-dos you’ll find in this Te Tai Poutini West Coast itinerary. All aboard! Te Kopikopiko o Te Waka Starting in the south, discover the celestial […]
West Coast on wheels
Amidst a glowing 27 percent increase in January visitor numbers, The West Coast Te Tai Poutini stepped into 2026 with economic optimism. If you want a taste of those high vibes, we suggest you head west on wheels. By two or by four, the region’s untamed natural wilderness, natural treasures and rich landscapes […]
The great West Coast road trip
Between Haast in the south and Karamea in the north, the West Coast is one adventure after another. From ancient forests to gigantic glaciers, watch the oceanic performance at Punakaiki’s blow holes, shop for greenstone in Greymouth and Hokitika, explore old gold workings and hike over one of the massive glaciers. Duration: 7 […]
Soak, stay and unwind: Clear Ridge
When the cold bites, there’s nothing better than sinking into hot water and letting stress melt away. After a lacklustre summer, winter offers the perfect excuse for a change of pace – crisp air, snow-dusted mountains, and the simple pleasure of warming up after a day outdoors. Just under two hours from Christchurch, […]
