Canterbury Wine and Hanmer Springs: A 4-Day Campervan Loop

Quick summary: For campervan travellers with a few more days, this loop from Christchurch pairs Canterbury wine with hot pools and harbour views. Spend a tasting day in the Waipara Valley, soak away the next day in the thermal pools at Hanmer Springs, then swing back past Christchurch to Akaroa on Banks Peninsula for boutique wines and seafood. It’s around 450 km over four days, with one day in each place where the campervan or motorhome barely moves.

At a glance
Length4 days
Start and finishChristchurch loop
Total drivingAround 450 km
HighlightsWaipara cellar doors, Hanmer’s thermal pools, Akaroa
Tasting dayDay 2 in Waipara
ToursCanterbury wine tours

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Day 1: Christchurch to Waipara (around 60 km)

Collect the campervan and drive north to the Waipara Valley. Settle in at a campground and book a tour for the morning. See the Waipara Valley.

Day 2: Waipara tasting day (no driving)

Taste on a tour with lunch at a vineyard, and spend a second night in the valley. See tasting without driving.

Day 3: Waipara to Hanmer Springs (around 75 km)

Drive inland to Hanmer Springs for an afternoon in the thermal pools and a walk in the forest above the village. Stay at a holiday park in Hanmer.

Day 4: Hanmer Springs to Akaroa (around 220 km)

A longer day south, past Christchurch and over the Hilltop to Akaroa. Walk to a waterfront restaurant for local wine and seafood, and return the vehicle the following day, or extend your stay with a harbour cruise. See Banks Peninsula and Akaroa.

Can you shorten the RV loop?

Yes. Drop Akaroa and return to Christchurch from Hanmer Springs, around 135 km, for a three-day trip. Or add a night in Akaroa to make the most of the peninsula.

What should you book ahead?

Campgrounds in Waipara and Hanmer Springs, and your wine tour, especially on summer weekends and holidays. See where to stay and food and farm gates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you combine Waipara wine with Hanmer Springs?

Yes. Hanmer Springs is around 75 km from Waipara, so it pairs naturally with a tasting day.

How long is the Canterbury wine and Hanmer loop?

Four days and around 450 km, starting and finishing in Christchurch.

Can you shorten the loop?

Yes. Skip Akaroa and return from Hanmer Springs for a three-day trip.

How far is Akaroa from Hanmer Springs?

Around 220 km via Christchurch and the Hilltop.