CHRISTCHURCH RENTALS FIELD GUIDE
An overnight odyssey through Lewis Pass to the thermal pools of Hanmer Springs
A two‑day guided journey from Christchurch that moves through forested alpine passes and waterfalls, concluding with a soak at Hanmer Springs Thermal Hot Pools—this guide clarifies the route, stops, and what’s included.
An overnight odyssey through Lewis Pass to the thermal pools of Hanmer Springs.
Join an overnight odyssey into the Lewis Pass National Reserve, where forest runs right down to the road in places, isolated cabins punctuate the slopes and the route pauses for the thunder of Maruia Falls before finishing with a soak at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Hot Pools.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Maruia Falls and the enclosed forest
The route pushes into the northernmost alpine pass of the Southern Alps where dense forest reaches the roadside and one of the trip’s scenic anchors, Maruia Falls, provides a dramatic photography stop.
Rahu Saddle to Lewis Pass — slow, photographic travel
Travel deviates through Rahu Saddle and across Lewis Pass itself, with multiple deliberate stops that let the group explore and photograph the changing alpine and forested terrain.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Hot Pools
After a day on the road you spend late afternoon and part of the following day at Hanmer Springs, with admission to the thermal pools included and an option to add a private spa experience.
What the day feels like
A deliberate two‑day rhythm of travel, stops, and soaking
Depart Christchurch early and travel north via SH1 and SH7, lingering at outlooks, waterfalls and saddles. Day one finishes in Hanmer Springs with time in the Thermal Hot Pools; day two begins with a leisurely breakfast, another pool visit if you wish, then a slow return via Waipara Valley vineyards and a stop at Waimakariri River Regional Park en route back to the city.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Pickup from select Christchurch hotels or Canterbury Museum; expert guide; activities and permits; photography tuition if required; late‑model air‑conditioned transport; snacks, beverages and drinks; scenic stops; and admission to Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools. Meals and accommodation are available on the Premium option—select Premium when booking.
Add a private spa at Hanmer Springs (Adult $35, Child $20 per person).
This is an overnight, two‑day experience that returns to Christchurch at the end of day two; the itinerary includes multiple stops for photography and a visit to Waipara Valley vineyards on the return.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
This is a two‑day, overnight trip.
Where do we meet or get picked up?
Pickup is available from some of the main hotels within Christchurch or alternatively from the Canterbury Museum.
What’s included in the tour price?
The tour includes an expert guide, activities and permits, photography tuition if required, late‑model air‑conditioned transport, snacks, beverages, scenic stops and admission to the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools; meals and accommodation are included only on the Premium option.
Is photography instruction available?
Yes—photography tuition is available if required.
Can I add a private spa at Hanmer Springs?
Yes. A private spa can be added at Hanmer Springs for Adults $35 and Children $20 per person.
Are there group size or age restrictions?
The trip is offered for all ages and is run for groups of two or more; pricing is per group.