From unique geological features, braided rivers, lakes and mountains the Waitaki Valley has so much to offer especially for the nature lovers out there!
In my opinion the Waitaki Valley is highly underrated. Many people by pass heading inland or just cruise through the valley without taking time to explore it further. I can tell ya, you’re missing out! Here are must do’s when you’re in the area.
1.Kurow Hill
This is a ‘huffy puffy’ trail but a quick steep 40 minutes up and you’ll have the best view of the township of Kurow and the Waitaki River. It climbs up fairly quickly but there are plenty of spots going up to take a rest and you’ll see exactly why it’s worth it when you get to the top!
2.Braided River Jet boating
I personally love seeing the sights from the water. Cruising through the braids, fresh air, it’s actually quite relaxing. Braided River Jet boating is quite different from any other jet boating company as well. Their tours are small and personal and go at whatever speed you like. You’ll leave with a good knowledge of the area and a great experience of the Waitaki!
3.Elephant rocks
Have you seen Narnia: The lion, the witch and wardrobe? The elephant rocks in Duntroon is where parts of that movie were filmed! Although they don’t exactly look like elephants (maybe if you look really hard), they are weather remnants of Otekaike Limestone.
4.Lake Benmore
Check out the beautiful blue waters of Lake Benmore, sit down for a picnic lunch, see New Zealand’s largest dam or take a walk on the Benmore peninsula track for stunning views across the lake and into the mountains. The peninsula circuit is a one and a half hour loop and the island lookout is only 45 minutes. This area is especially beautiful in fall when the popular trees by the lake are changing colours.
5.Alps to ocean cycle trail
If you love biking consider riding the Alps to ocean cycle trail. A very well groomed trail that goes from Aoraki in the alps to Oamaru by the ocean! It’s suitable for all ages and although the entire track takes up to 8 days you can certainly do it in sections. If you don’t have your own bike, no worries as there are many places you can hire from and also get transportation to certain parts of the route!
7.Wine tasting
If you didn’t know, the Waitaki Valley is a wine makers dream and growing in popularity for it’s wine. Pop in for a tasting at several of the vineyards or take a wine tasting tour! There are many different brands of Waitaki wine to choose from! One of my favs so far is the rose from Q Wine!
8.Clay cliffs
These cliffs are becoming more and more popular and for good reason. The uniqueness of this geological feature is out of this world! I first explored these cliffs a few years ago on a road trip down south and was just in aw of the cliff formations and how they were in the middle of nowhere. Pretty cool spot!
Where to stay
I would highly suggest if you can checking yourself into Valley Views Glamping. Camping in luxury over looking the stunning scenery of the valley around is a must! They book up pretty quickly! Another cute and cozy spot is Black Cabin in Duntroon!
No the Waitaki Valley isn’t exactly the poster child of New Zealand over social media but it makes for the perfect opportunity to get off the beaten path even just a little bit! Finding small towns like Kurow gets you talking to locals and gives you a real kiwi experience!
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Larch
New Zealand is on my radar for 2020, and Waitaki Valley is definitely on the list. Thank you for this post!