|
New Zealand
> Canterbury >
 Canterbury is a region of wide alluvial plains in the
Eastern Central South Island with the Southern Alps in
the West, and The Pacific Ocean to the East. The
largest city is Christchurch
with regional cities of Ashburton and
Timaru to the south. To the north, the
Hurunui district with it's
thermal resort and recreation activities
is growing in popularity.
Canterbury is in the rain shadow of the Southern Alps
and the climate is drier than many regions. The summers (November -
March) can have daytime temperatures 20 - 30º with the evenings
around 10º.
In winter there are frosts and occasional snow on the plains, on the
Alps there is heavy snow which can close roads for a few days and
create ideal conditions for the many ski fields which operate from
June - October. Climate
To the West, North and South of Christchurch
stretch the Canterbury Plains. This flat alluvial plain is cut by many
braided rivers and is home to intensive agriculture, with sheep and
cattle farming, cropping with many vineyards and orchards.
Banks peninsula to the east of
Christchurch is a region of volcanic hills and seaside bays.
To the west of
Christchurch and an hours drive away are the Southern Alps a
mountainous region extending the length of the South Island. There
are many places to walk, fish, hunt and enjoy the many beautiful
places. The Canterbury Region has more than 1000 km of tracks and 173
backcountry huts to help you explore its many special places. Formed
tracks provide access to sites of special scenic, historic or
cultural or spiritual significance, while unformed routes provide
opportunities for exploring the backcountry and wilderness areas.
The Canterbury region offers a wide variety of tracks and routes for
all levels of experience, fitness and ability.
National parks -
Tramping
There are many small towns where you can stay and meet local
people. As you drive about
the district there are many roadside craft, produce
stalls and markets in most towns, though most often
on the weekends.
Canterbury, and especially
the West
Coast have many
accessible 4WD tracks for the off road enthusiast.
Some are suited for the more inexperienced driver,
and some are just gut wrenching. These tracks
can be negotiated with standard all terrain tyres,
and with no noticeable vehicle damage except perhaps
some minor brush marks from gorse and scrub.
Not withstanding the above, each track depends on the
conditions of the day, the drivers ability, his/her
vehicles ability and many other factors such as the
weather.
If you have any doubt as to either yours or your
vehicles ability then you are advised to seek advice,
travel as part of an experienced group, enroll in a
suitable off-road driving course. |
