Destination Cheviot
words: Amelia Norman
Images: Cheviot Promotions
If you’re looking for a summer holiday destination that packs in the very best of North Canterbury’s natural attractions and family-friendly activities, look no further than Cheviot.
The small, rural township located on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route between Christchurch and Kaikoura is full of unexpected adventures from farm tours to cheese making, surfing to birding, cycling to hiking and plenty in between.
Spend a morning exploring the tracks, trails and history of the Cheviot Hills Reserve. The abundant specimen trees and expansive grass areas of the domain provide the perfect spot for a summer’s picnic and a family game of cricket.
Meander Cheviot township to discover the historic former Knox Presbyterian Church (now the Cheviot Knox Community Centre), the St John’s Anglican Church with its beautiful William Morris stained glass windows, the children’s playground and the fabulous local gift shop. For a real taste of Cheviot, stock up on locally made Mt Beautiful wine, Gore Bay Honey, and Harris Farms smallgoods. A long and lazy afternoon tea will beckon you from one of the delightful eateries on the main street. If you’ve booked ahead you can follow this up with a visit to an artist’s studio, food foraging workshop, farm tour or a thrilling jet boat ride nearby!
Whether you’re camping at Gore Bay, glamping at Tawanui Farm, or living large at the luxurious Ribbonwood Country House, the long summer evenings are the perfect time to kick back, enjoy that local wine you bought and soak in the peaceful surroundings of rural North Canterbury.
Surfers and cyclists will be up bright and early to catch the best of the day. If the tides and wind align, Gore Bay is renowned for its punchy little surf break. Book in for a surf lesson if you’re not a seasoned pro. Alternatively, paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing and boating are popular options for the marine-minded holiday maker to while away the best part of a day.
Cycle trails lead in almost every direction from central Cheviot. The Cheviot Coastal Classic is a fabulous 30km coastal loop track that requires dedication and a fair bit of fitness, both of which are rewarded with a stop off at the picturesque Cathedral Cliffs. A swim break at Gore Bay beach is also a must! For those seeking an easier ride, the Ready Money Trail at Cheviot Hills Reserve will fill a pleasant hour amongst peaceful woodlands.
Enoy the day’s end with a picnic dinner at St Anne’s Lagoon, a few minutes north of Cheviot. Keen birders will be kept happy spotting rare breeds while everyone else relaxes in the shade and revels in the tranquil setting.
Cheviot is the perfect summer escape, so close to home.
For further information on Cheviot and its many attractions visit www.cheviotnz.com.
