Christchurch To Hanmer Springs Weekend Roadie

On your way through the dramatic scenery of the Hurunui District, make sure you stop in at the Brackenfields Shopping Area in Amberley to boost your EV charge.

Anyone who’s not from the area might be forgiven for assuming there wouldn’t be many fine-dining restaurant options between Amberley and Hanmer Springs, but they’d then be promptly sent away with a map of the Waipara Valley to see what they’re missing out on. The pick of the (grape) bunch in this premium wine-growing region is Black Estate, whose tasting room and restaurant were awarded Best Winery Restaurant in New Zealand in 2017. For a bit of perspective, for the past nine years that same award went to their neighbouring vineyard, Pegasus Bay Winery, so wherever you go, you’ll be in good company.

Continuing on through the district, you will pass by the Historic Hurunui Hotel, which is unfortunately under repair due to damage from the 2016 earthquake. They are aiming to complete the re-open in late 2018, but it is still worth stopping to have a look at this Canterbury icon, which has held one of the longest continuous liquor licenses in New Zealand since 1860. That’s a fair few pints.

Grab another EV boost at the ChargeNet station in Culverden to avoid running out of steam. This will keep you going all the way to your beautiful destination of Hanmer Springs.

For dumpling connoisseurs, MK Restaurant is new to Hanmer Springs and an absolute must-try. Serving up Italian, Russian, Japanese, Spanish, Chinese and many more international styles of these little pockets of flavour, MK Restaurant has received raving reviews for their unique and delicious dumpling cuisine. Go to see their food presentation alone (think colour, design and embellishment), get hooked by their impeccable service, and stay for the dessert menu… It might just change your life.

There is a huge range of accommodation options at Hanmer Springs, but the most EV-friendly pick is the Hanmer Springs Forest Camp, where you can either book a powered site to plug in your machine overnight, or charge it at one of their two commando units and book a cabin for a bit more comfort. Dedicated to promoting ecotourism, the greenery-enclosed Forest Camp practices a number of different sustainability initiatives, so rest assured that you and your EV will be warmly welcomed.

Scramble back down the hill for your morning food fix, stopping in at the Powerhouse Cafe to regain your own power. Situated in an old hydroelectric power-station, this cafe is one of the best places to find breakfast in Hanmer Springs, especially for those with certain dietary requirements thanks to their fully adaptable menu. Sit back and lap up the view of the surrounding mountains, cruising into your day on Hanmer time.

Unless you were savvy enough to get a two-day pass at the thermal pools so you could enjoy extra bathing time in the morning, it’s time to get back on the road after breakfast, leaving behind the peaceful paradise of Hanmer Springs. Instead of returning straight back to Christchurch, take the scenic route through the rural expanse to the South Island’s east coast. But first, if you’re an EV driver you’ll have to make a slight detour to Culverden to plug in at the Chargenet station in the council car park, because you’ll need the extra juice to make it between here and the next charging spot. Once that’s sorted, head back up to SH 70 towards Waiau, and on to Cheviot.

Once back on the main highway, head south to reach Domett, where the Mainline Station Cafe is putting up a good fight to put the quiet hamlet on the map. A magnet for glowing reviews, this cafe is housed in a lovingly preserved historic railway station, and is a favourite for both locals and passers-by. Spend an hour (or two) relaxing amongst the vintage NZR memorabilia, or out in the cosy cottage gardens. You’re in safe hands with the unstoppable, award-winning husband and wife duo in the kitchen. Note that this cafe closes over the winter months (June to August), so if you don’t strike the timing well you might have to find another spot for your midday pick-me-up.

EV cruisers must make one last stop at the Chargenet station in Amberley, to avoid the journey back to Christchurch becoming a bit sour. It’s about 50km back to the city, so 15-20 minutes of charging should do the trick.

Whilst in Amberley, pop into the local Mecca for vintage fiends, Mumma T Trading Lounge. Actually, Mumma T doesn’t just cater for thrift shopping enthusiasts, rather any home renovators, green thumbs, peanut butter lovers, or perusers of aesthetic collectibles. Beautifully-curated and just that little bit entrancing, don’t be surprised if you go into this shop for five minutes and find yourself sneaking out two hours later with a much lighter wallet.