Explore the Pristine Beauty of Hakatere Conservation Park
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Hakatere Conservation Park, a serene nature preserve in New Zealand's Canterbury region.
Hakatere Conservation Park, nestled in the stunning Canterbury region of New Zealand, is a breathtaking nature preserve that showcases the country's diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this ecological park offers numerous walking trails, tranquil lakes, and panoramic views of the Southern Alps, making it a perfect getaway for tourists looking to connect with nature.
A brief summary to Hakatere Conservation Park
- 89 Hakatere Heron Rd, Ashburton Lakes, 7771, NZ
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited within the park.
- Dress in layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly in the alpine environment.
- Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife!
- Check trail conditions and park information before your visit for the best experience.
Getting There
-
Car
From Christchurch, take State Highway 1 south toward Ashburton. After approximately 85 kilometers, take the exit for State Highway 77 toward Ashburton. Continue on State Highway 77 for about 30 kilometers until you reach Ashburton. In Ashburton, follow the signs to State Highway 1 and head towards the Ashburton Lakes. After about 20 kilometers, turn onto Hakatere Heron Road, and follow it for 15 kilometers. The entrance to Hakatere Conservation Park will be on your left at 89 Hakatere Heron Road, Ashburton Lakes 7771.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Hakatere Conservation Park by public transportation, first take a bus from Christchurch to Ashburton. Buses such as the InterCity service operate regularly between these two locations. Once you arrive in Ashburton, you will need to hire a taxi or use a local shuttle service to reach Hakatere Conservation Park, as there are no direct public transport options available to the park. The taxi ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes and may cost around NZD 70-100.
-
Bicycle
For those adventurous enough to cycle, you can bike from Christchurch to Ashburton via State Highway 1. Once in Ashburton, take Hakatere Heron Road, which leads directly to Hakatere Conservation Park. The total biking distance from Christchurch to the park is approximately 120 kilometers. Ensure you have proper gear and plan for a long ride, possibly needing to camp or stay overnight in Ashburton before continuing to the park.
Discover more about Hakatere Conservation Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mount Plenty
58.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mount Plenty in Castle Hill, NZ, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await every traveler.
Mt John Summit Circuit Track
71.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich wildlife at Mt John Summit Circuit Track, a scenic hiking destination in Tekapo, New Zealand.
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
73.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in New Zealand's Southern Alps.
Ball Hut
78.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ball Hut in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park—your perfect mountain retreat amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Tasman Glacier Car Park
81.7 km
Discover the stunning Tasman Glacier Car Park in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, your gateway to breathtaking glacier views and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Robert's Point Track
82.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Robert's Point Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand with stunning views of Fox Glacier and lush rainforests.
Mt Cook
82.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Cook, New Zealand's highest peak, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak
82.9 km
Discover the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook Middle Peak, New Zealand's highest mountain, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Franz Josef Glacier Walk
83.1 km
Discover the enchanting Franz Josef Glacier Walk, a must-see hiking destination showcasing stunning glaciers and lush rainforests in New Zealand.
Glacier Country Heliport Car Park
83.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Franz Josef with convenient access to glacier adventures from Glacier Country Heliport Car Park, your gateway to stunning landscapes.
Empress Hut
84.4 km
Discover the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Empress Hut in Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Mount Cook Airport
85.3 km
Experience the stunning beauty of New Zealand's Southern Alps at Mount Cook Airport, your gateway to adventure and breathtaking landscapes.
Mount Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters
85.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's Southern Alps with unforgettable helicopter tours at Mount Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters.
Hooker Lake
85.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hooker Lake, a glacial gem nestled in Mount Cook National Park, offering stunning views and serene adventures.
Copland Shelter
86.4 km
Discover the serenity of Copland Shelter, a mountain retreat in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, perfect for nature lovers and hikers seeking adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mt Sunday Swing Bridge
22.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Mt Sunday Swing Bridge, a thrilling attraction in Canterbury, showcasing stunning landscapes and a unique adventure experience.
Edoras (Lord of the Rings)
23.1 km
Experience the magic of Edoras, the stunning filming location from The Lord of the Rings, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand's Ashburton Lakes.
Acland Falls
32.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Acland Falls in Peel Forest, New Zealand, where adventure and tranquility meet in stunning natural surroundings.
Emily Falls
33.1 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Emily Falls in Canterbury, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Washpen Falls
46.7 km
Experience the natural beauty of Washpen Falls, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Windwhistle, New Zealand with stunning waterfalls and scenic walking tracks.
Roundhill Ski Area
48.1 km
Experience the thrill of skiing and breathtaking views at Roundhill Ski Area in New Zealand's stunning Southern Alps.
Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve
53.7 km
Explore Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve, a tranquil haven in Geraldine, offering stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and diverse trails for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Geraldine Visitor Centre
54.4 km
Explore the charm of Geraldine, New Zealand, at the Visitor Centre, your gateway to local attractions, experiences, and hidden gems.
Pippa’s Lookout
55.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Pippa's Lookout in Castle Hill, a must-visit tourist attraction in New Zealand.
Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area
60.6 km
Discover the breathtaking rock formations and rich Maori heritage at Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area, a hiker's paradise in New Zealand.
Castle Hill Rocks
60.7 km
Explore the stunning Castle Hill Rocks in New Zealand, where breathtaking limestone formations meet rich cultural heritage and adventure.
Basins Hut
61.1 km
Explore Basins Hut, a serene scenic spot in Canterbury, New Zealand, offering stunning landscapes for relaxation and nature appreciation.
Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
64.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the night sky at Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, a haven for stargazers and nature lovers.
Cave Stream Scenic Reserve
64.5 km
Experience adventure and stunning natural beauty at Cave Stream Scenic Reserve, a must-visit attraction for outdoor enthusiasts in New Zealand.
Alma Historic Cob Cottage
67.4 km
Explore the historical charm of Alma Historic Cob Cottage, a unique glimpse into New Zealand's architectural heritage in Burkes Pass.
Essential places to dine
Railway Hotel Rakaia
70.5 km
Discover the warmth of Kiwi hospitality at Railway Hotel Rakaia - enjoy delicious grills and local brews in a classic pub setting.
TLV Restaurant & Bar
71.2 km
Experience unforgettable dining at TLV Restaurant & Bar in Lake Tekapo - where local flavors meet stunning scenery.
Dark Sky Diner
71.2 km
Discover exquisite cuisine and stunning night skies at Dark Sky Diner in Lake Tekapo - where nature meets gastronomy.
25 Degrees Burger Bar
71.2 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers at 25 Degrees Burger Bar in Lake Tekapo – where flavor meets stunning views in New Zealand's breathtaking landscape.
Jack Rabbit
71.2 km
Discover Jack Rabbit: A top-rated café and brunch spot in Lake Tekapo with breathtaking views and delicious local flavors.
Kohan Restaurant
71.2 km
Experience exquisite Japanese cuisine at Kohan Restaurant with breathtaking views of Lake Tekapo's stunning landscapes.
Jade Palace Resteraunt
71.3 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Jade Palace Restaurant in Lake Tekapo amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Dolce Pizza
71.3 km
Savor delicious pizzas amidst breathtaking views at Dolce Pizza in Lake Tekapo – a must-visit culinary gem!
Fishtail Authentic Indian & Nepalese
71.3 km
Discover authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine at Fishtail in Lake Tekapo – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Mackenzies Cafe Bar & Grill
71.3 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine with stunning views at Mackenzies Cafe Bar & Grill in Lake Tekapo.
Blue Lake Eatery & Bar
71.3 km
Experience culinary delights at Blue Lake Eatery & Bar with stunning views in Lake Tekapo - perfect for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Better Batter NZ
71.4 km
Experience delicious fish and chips at The Better Batter NZ while enjoying stunning views of Lake Tekapo's breathtaking scenery.
“Morelea Lakeside”
71.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite local cuisine at Morelea Lakeside, Lake Tekapo's premier dining destination.
Grain & Grape
77.2 km
Discover Grain & Grape in Darfield – where local flavors meet warm hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.
King Tiger
83.0 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at King Tiger in Franz Josef – where local flavors meet international cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Tin Shed
53.3 km
Discover The Tin Shed: Your one-stop shop for unique New Zealand souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts along the beautiful Rangitata-Orari Bridge Highway.
AOK Clothing
54.6 km
Explore AOK Clothing in Geraldine for exquisite knitwear and handcrafted pieces that embody New Zealand's unique textile artistry.
Humunculus
57.3 km
Discover Humunculus, Ashburton's charming gift shop for unique children's clothing, toys, and baby essentials, perfect for families and thoughtful gifts.
Ashford Village
57.5 km
Explore Ashford Village: A charming shopping destination in Allenton with boutique shops and delightful cafes that offer a taste of local culture.
Urban Infantware
61.3 km
Shop unique and stylish infant clothing at Urban Infantwear in Fairlie, New Zealand, where comfort meets contemporary design for your little ones.
BLANK SPACE
61.5 km
Explore the essence of New Zealand fashion at Blank Space, a boutique clothing store in Fairlie offering unique styles and local designer pieces.
Mint Boutique
61.5 km
Explore Mint Boutique in Fairlie for unique clothing and accessories that reflect New Zealand's vibrant style and local craftsmanship.
The Little Red Fox
61.5 km
Discover unique Kiwi fashion and accessories at The Little Red Fox in Fairlie, a charming boutique that embodies New Zealand's rural spirit.
Colab Boutique
61.8 km
Explore Fairlie's Colab Boutique for unique clothing that embodies local style and emerging trends, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
Three Creeks, Vintage Garage Decor
68.1 km
Explore the unique charm of Three Creeks Vintage Garage Decor, a treasure trove of eclectic vintage finds and quirky gifts in Burkes Pass, New Zealand.
Aotea Gifts Tekapo
71.2 km
Explore Aotea Gifts in Tekapo for unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the essence of New Zealand's beauty.
Kiwi Treasures & Information Centre
71.3 km
Explore local arts, crafts, and essential travel tips at Kiwi Treasures & Information Centre in stunning Lake Tekapo, New Zealand.
Naturally New Zealand Tekapo
71.3 km
Immerse yourself in the local culture at Naturally New Zealand Tekapo, where unique gifts and artisanal delights await every visitor.
Temuka Antiques & Collectables
71.9 km
Explore a vibrant collection of antiques and collectibles in Temuka, a charming treasure trove for history enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Avoca By Design
80.3 km
Discover the essence of New Zealand craftsmanship at Avoca By Design, a unique gift shop in Arthur's Pass Village offering handcrafted treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cave Arms Tavern
80.5 km
Discover the warm ambiance and delicious cuisine at Cave Arms Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cave, New Zealand.
Grey Way Lounge, Phar Lap Raceway
82.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Grey Way Lounge, a perfect blend of relaxation and racing culture in Timaru, New Zealand.
Moa Bar
83.2 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Moa Bar, a unique bar experience in the heart of Franz Josef, offering local flavors and stunning views.
NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge - Private club
86.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook at the NZ Alpine Club Unwin Lodge, an alpine retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Snowline Bar
87.8 km
Unwind at Snowline Bar in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park; a serene spot for drinks and breathtaking views amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
The West Oxford Hotel
87.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and local charm at The West Oxford Hotel, your ideal getaway in Oxford, NZ.
No. 8 Wired Bar
88.4 km
Experience the local nightlife at No. 8 Wired Bar in Timaru, where cozy ambiance meets a selection of fine beverages.
Boiler House
88.5 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Boiler House, Timaru's charming bar offering craft beverages and local flair in the historic Royal Arcade.
Foresized Bar
88.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Foresized Bar in Timaru, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
The Fort Timaru
88.8 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Fort Timaru, a cozy bar offering a delightful selection of beverages in the heart of Timaru.
Fox Glacier Jade Hotel
94.0 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand at Fox Glacier Jade Hotel, your cozy retreat amidst stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
The Westhaven Motel
94.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at The Westhaven Motel, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fox Glacier.
Bella Vista Fox Glacier
94.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and adventure at Bella Vista Fox Glacier, your gateway to stunning natural wonders.
Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
94.2 km
Discover the beauty of Glacier Country at Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amid stunning landscapes.
Woodstock Hotel
94.2 km
Experience the best of local cuisine and craft brews at the Woodstock Hotel, a cozy bar and grill nestled in the heart of New Zealand's scenic landscape.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tasman Glacier Skiing
87.6 km
Discover the thrill of skiing on the stunning Tasman Glacier nestled in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand's alpine paradise.
Mount Cook Heliski
87.6 km
Discover the exhilarating world of heliskiing at Mount Cook, New Zealand's premier ski resort nestled in stunning alpine beauty.
South Canterbury Club Inc
88.3 km
Discover local culture and community spirit at South Canterbury Club Inc, the heart of social life in Timaru, New Zealand.
Factory Bar And Nightclub
88.6 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Timaru at Factory Bar And Nightclub, where music and dancing create unforgettable experiences.
Timaru South Cosmopolitan Club
89.2 km
Experience local culture and entertainment at the Timaru South Cosmopolitan Club, where friendly faces and fun await in Timaru.
Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels
94.9 km
Discover the beauty of New Zealand's Fox Glacier at Top 10 Holiday Park & Motels, your base for adventure and relaxation in stunning landscapes.
