Explore Kaikoura, Canterbury
Kaikoura and Canterbury
One of the most defining things about these areas is the damage done by recent earthquakes; Canterbury’s major quakes in September 2010 and February 2011, and Kaikoura’s in 2016. Both areas are still recovering and in some places, witnessing that recovery is worth a detour itself.
1. The Kaiapoi Letterbox Sculpture, Corner of Williams and Fuller Sts Kaiapoi
This is quirky sculpture, borne out of the heartbreak of the quakes. Local artist Mark Larsen created the sculpture out of letterboxes and street signs from Kaiapoi’s Red Zone.
2. Springfield Donut sculpture
A more lighthearted stop, Graeme Dawson, chairman of the Springfield Township Committee, has a matterof-fact explanation for the giant donut in the middle of his town. “The Simpsons live in Springfield, Illinois, that’s their hometown. And this is the first Springfield in the world to see the sun, so some crowd decided we needed a donut, so it’s here.” He says every time you go past, someone is having their photo taken with the donut, which is a replacement for the original that fell victim to an arsonist.
For more wholesome entertainment, he recommends mountain biking tracks, fishing, shooting, and the six skifields within half an hour of the town.
“It’s very understated, but there’s a lot to do in the area.”
3. Maruia Hot Springs, 1513 State Highway 7, Lewis Pass
A historical thermal mineral spa in the Lewis Pass National Reserve. Originally used by Ma¯ori ponamu traders, today you can sauna and bathe while you enjoy the view to Maruia River below.
4. Glentunnel library and post office
Likely the smallest library in the country, it still operates, doubling as the local post office. The octagonal building was built in 1886, incorporating every type of brick and terracotta tile then produced by nearby Homebush Pottery. Today, it’s operated by local volunteers, open Monday to Friday from 9-11am.
5. Cave stream, SH 73, between Broken River road bridge and Craigieburn Forest Park entrance
Even inexperienced cavers can walk the almost 600m between this cave’s two entrances.
But the Department of Conservation warns people should have at least two reliable lights per person plus spare batteries, warm polypropylene or wool clothing, sturdy footwear, and should observe warning signs at the cave’s entrance.