12 Hours Amberley & Waipara

Get your day rolling with a straightforward hike up Mt Grey/Maukatere and enjoy some of the finest, sweeping views of Canterbury from the standalone summit. The well-formed track passes through a mixture of native bush and exotic forest, leading to tussock slopes up the top. You can head back down via the Red Beech Track to make it a circuit. If you’re aiming for a sunrise summit, allow for 2-3 hours walking (one way). The trailhead is a half-hour drive from Amberley (or one hour from Ōtautahi Christchurch).

Amberley isn’t normally a town that springs to mind when you’re looking for a decent coffee. However, prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the little gem that is Little Vintage Espresso.

Little Vintage is simple, stylish, and inviting. The light, open space is filled with communal tables and happy customers. What more could you want?

Enjoy walking among dynamic art thoughtfully placed throughout the dramatic landscape of a former limestone quarry at Iron Ridge. At this sculpture park, you’ll come across works in mediums from bronze to pounamu, by emerging and established New Zealand artists. The Waipara Valley backdrop and ambience of the immediate surroundings make for a lovely spot to park up for a picnic as you make your way around the sculpture trail. Iron Ridge closes over the winter months so make sure to check their website before your visit.

The Greystone team are passionate about organic wine and educating others about their unique practices. Pop into their Cellar Door to try their outstanding range of award winning wines. For those wanting to see first-hand the true essence of Greystone, guided tours of the winery and vineyard offer a fascinating snapshot of the exciting things happening on the vines and in the wines.

A winery, tasting room and restaurant, Black Estate is famous not only for its organic and biodynamic wines but its refreshing approach to food. Locally sourced and organic produce creates seasonal lunches that beg to be lingered over with a bottle. Minimalism is the aesthetic at this Waipara winery, and Black Estate's laid-back atmosphere hits a stylish note. 

Pegasus Bay is a true gem in the Waipara crown and an extremely memorable place to visit. Family owned and operated, the beautiful winery and restaurant reflect the passion and energy the Donaldson family pour into the Pegasus Bay empire. The striking castle-like building is surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens full of beautiful trees, flowers, ponds, and red footbridges which add to the magic of the place.

Once you've tried the range in the tasting room, pick a glass or bottle and then check out their range of local bites within the deli to build your own cheese platter, and head out to the gardens to find your spot. 

With rolling North Canterbury hills in the background, rows of grapevines in the foreground, and a glass of wine in your hand, Terrace Edge is the classy yet laid back winery atmosphere you’ve been looking for.

With delicious wines and homegrown olives, you can feast on special varietals here while sampling some of the winery's finest in olives.  

The home of beer in Amberley, the Brew Moon Brewing Company is an independent family-run craft brewery and pizzeria. Residing on the historic Markham Street in Amberley, Brew Moon provides locals and travellers alike with a relaxed spot to enjoy some locally crafted beer, wood-fired pizzas and delicious burgers.