Even if you’re well versed in your travels of the South Island, there is always something exciting to be found just beyond the main road – we head inland to Scenic Route 72.

There’s no denying that the South Island is bursting at the brim with hidden gems and incredible experiences waiting to be ticked off your bucket list. Now more than ever is the time to lock in a road trip and explore the treasure troves of goodies in our beautiful big backyard. Summer is just around the corner so whether you hit the open road solo or round up the family, we’ve done the hard yards and come up with our top picks of things to see and do along the Inland Scenic Route 72.

A trip inland just wouldn’t be complete without an obligatory tour of the stunning Mount Sunday and for all of The Lord of the Rings fans out there, you’ll know that this was home to the set of Edoras – Rohan’s capital city. More than just a movie set and a place to fangirl over, Mount Sunday has undergone a huge transformation with the New Zealand Army building easier accessible roads to take in this small but mighty mountain, carved by picturesque glaciers and flanked by expansive views that are worthy of a photo or two.

Fun fact: the hill takes its name from the boundary riders who hailed from the High Country and would meet weekly on, you guessed it, Sunday. The choice is yours to either drive or walk. It is a one-hour walking trip, located only 1.5 km from Hakatere Potts Road.

We all love a soak in the hot pools to unwind after a long day and we’re sure you’re all too familiar with the hot pools in Hanmer Springs and Tekapo, but have you heard of Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa? New Zealand’s newest wellness destination is located in Methven and boasts tranquility pools, a day spa and family discovery hot pools. Their local chef Oliver Luxton is renowned for producing a unique and wholesome dining experience at their on-site café and it’s most definitely worth a trip for some much needed R & R.

If you’re seeking a day or weekend out in Mother Nature, Hakatere Conservation Park will be right up your alley. This stunning conservation park spans nearly 60,000 hectares of rugged mountain country, tussock lands, beech forest, rivers and lakes plus there is a number of places to grab your bike and take in the refreshing alpine air. Suitable for beginner and seasoned explorers, there is a great mix of grade 1–3 rides and multiple access points. We recommend checking out Lake Heron, Lake Clearwater or Lake Emma for lazy afternoon lounging, high-octane adrenalin activities or crisp dips.

Renowned for its diverse landscape, patchwork plains and the dramatic Southern Alps intersecting with mighty rivers, Selwyn is a melting pot of activities from exploring hidden waterfalls to soaking up cultural history. Famed for its abundance of Chinook salmon and brown trout, fishing at the middle to upper reaches of the Rakaia River has become a favourite pastime for locals and those from the big smoke.

Steer clear of the crowds and snag those fish by taking a jet boat up to those too-hard-to-reach places. Not into fishing? Stretch your legs and try the Rakaia Gorge Walkway, a 3–4-hour easy walking track that offers several geological and historic features as it traverses the edge of the Rakaia Gorge. 

If you’re yet to take the time to wander through Washpen Falls, then there is no better time to go, now that the weather is getting warmer. A moderate two-hour loop track through deep canyons and gorges leads you to the stunning waterfall where you can marvel at the vast landscape that was created by a volcanic eruption some 80 million years ago. The Washpen Falls conservation project is also regenerating southern rata and welcoming back korimako (bellbird), kererū and pīwakawawa (fantail) – listen to the beautiful birdsong and immerse yourself in the surrounding native bush at one of the tranquil and private accommodation options in Rockwood Station or Washpen Falls.

Follow the Inland Scenic Route further and you’ll be greeted by the quaint village of Glentunnel, once famed for its pottery and brickworks. Now the village is renowned for the Glentunnel Museum, home to an extensive collection of items recording the history of the area. You’ll also find the Hororata Golf Club (which is actually located in Glentunnel), a beautiful 18-hole course set across the terraces of the Selwyn River.

Journey north and you’ll find yourself in the Waimakariri District, an area of great taste, adventure and shopping experiences. It is also home to a wealth of activities from farmers markets, to boating, to great walks and cycleways, to stylish boutique shops. If it’s local produce you’re after, the pituresque towns of Oxford and Ohoka are the places to go as they hold their traditional farmers’ markets on a weekly basis. A variety of producers and artisans gather to sell their locally grown and crafted produce – from free-range eggs, vegan products and handmade breads, to flowers, honey and specialty cheeses just to name a few – there’s something for everyone!

Whether it be fast-paced jet boating or a gentle cruise in a two-storied paddle steamer replica, the Waimakariri District runs from the land to the water so you are spoiled for choice. Alpine Jets offers thrills and spills as the jet boat speeds across shallow braided sections of the river. Or sweep between the intertwining waterways on New Zealand’s first airboat, straight from the Florida Everglades. If you would prefer a quieter journey, jump on the Kaiapoi River Queen, a two-storied paddle steamer replica based on the Kaiapoi River. And for those wanting a more free-range experience, hire a kayak or row boat and explore the Kaiapoi River. 

The Waimakariri towns of Oxford, Rangiora and Kaiapoi (to name a few) boast some of the most stylish boutique shops showcasing the latest local and international fashion. Each town offers a unique shopping experience and you are bound to find that special something for yourself or someone else. And to top it off you have plenty of options when it comes to dining, with 70 cafés and restaurants available to choose from. 

This is just a snapshot of what is ready and waiting for you to discover on this route – visit scenicroute72.nz for more beautiful destinations, shops, eateries and accommodation.