Ashburton

Ashburton is known largely as a rural service centre, but behind the farming façade there are numerous attractions to be uncovered. Considered the gateway to the South Island’s ski areas, Ashburton is also on the doorstep of the lakes, rivers and mountains that make Canterbury such a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Other Ashburton District Destinations

 Aquafest at Lake Hood, Ashburton  Ashburton District Tourism

 Hotel Room Inside Accommodation  © espensorvik via Flickr

Ashburton

Accommodation

With a high number of farmstays and homestays, B&Bs, backpackers, holiday parks and self-contained units, Ashburton has accommodation options for everyone!

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Tourism Waikato

Ashburton

Activities

Browse through the diverse range of activities on offer in this beautiful area. There are many to choose from, find your favourite!   

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What to do in Ashburton

  • Browse the many artists' studios & galleries
  • Take to the water on nearby Lake Hood
  • Experience the local sport of harness racing
  • Walk through pretty Ashburton Domain
  • Visit one of many specialist museums

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How do you get to Ashburton?

  • Travel by Plane
    • Ashburton does not have a commercial airport but the city can be reached within a relaxing hour's drive from Christchurch International Airport.
  • Travel by Train
    • There are no passenger train services to Ashburton.
  • Travel by Bus
    • Shuttle and bus transport between Christchurch and Ashburton are regular and affordable. A number of tour buses stop or pass through Ashburton, and in winter there are several operators transporting passengers to Mt Hutt Ski Area from Ashburton.
  • Rent a Vehicle
    • A limited number of rental outlets operate in Ashburton. However, a much wider range is available in Christchurch.