The south bank

December 13, 2022 by Metropol No Comments

Take a drive these holidays and discover the south bank of North Canterbury.

Southbank is a new route launched by the wineries perched on the Southbank of the Waipara River.

The group have worked together to create a day trip destination that includes world-class wine, gourmet toasties, cheese, walkways and a sculpture park.

All of the Southbank businesses are like-minded, family operated, and share a passion for their special part of Waipara.

IRON RIDGE SCULPTURE PARK

Raymond Herber is one of our region’s most acclaimed forgers and sculptors. Based at Iron Ridge Quarry, an old Limeworks, Raymond crafts steel to create small and large scale sculptures that will blow your mind.

The entire quarry has been transformed into a sculptural wonderland. Raymond’s whimsical, yet strong sculptures are set against a carefully curated native garden, all under the shadow of breath-taking limestone hills.

Raymond lives and works on-site, and opens the park to the public every Sunday from 10am – 4pm. Raymond will happily host larger groups by appointment and offers a complimentary forging demonstration.

GEORGES ROAD

It’s not every day you get to meet the maker of your wine, but at Georges Road, nine times out of 10 you will be warmly welcomed by winemaker, viticulturist, owner…the list goes on… Kirk Bray. Kirk is an incredibly well-travelled winemaker with passion and knowledge that will blow your mind. Knowledge paired with wine that will leave you wondering if you’re in Waipara, central France, or the southwest of Germany. Georges Road is a cellar door not to be missed.

TERRACE EDGE CELLAR DOOR

Terrace Edge is your first stop along the stretch of road home to the South Bank wineries (Terrace Edge, Georges Road and The Bone Line). Cuddled between vines and olive trees, Terrace Edge cellar door gives you a space to sit back and learn about wine in a completely relaxed environment. While you’re sipping their amazing award-winning organic wines, treat yourself to one of their gourmet toasties, or an olive oil tasting.