Ashburton

Ashburton is the gateway to many of the leading activities and attractions that Canterbury has to offer, from hot air ballooning over the Canterbury Plains to fly fishing on the Rakaia River and skiing at Mt Hutt.  Before moving on take a break in Ashburton and explore Lake Hood for swimming and water sports, or relax in the Ashburton Domain with its colourful gardens, picnic spots and playgrounds for the kids.  For a slice of New Zealand transport history, be sure to visit both the Ashburton Aviation Museum and the Plains Vintage Railway and Historical Museum.