Bella Vista's Blog

Planning a short break or a few days with the family in Christchurch? Rediscover a city once famed for its well-groomed gardens, now going places with a vibrant rebuild, great eateries and fun attractions.  The city is still green and beautiful, but this gateway to the South has blossomed into an exciting creative destination, since the transformative 2011 earthquake. Here’s our guide on the top ten things to do in Christchurch.  

Number one is to head for the Christchurch Gondola, an 862-metre cable car ride up the side of Mt Cavendish, for spectacular 360-degree views of the city, the plains, the Southern Alps, Lake Ellesmere and the Pacific Ocean. If you’re keen on stretching your legs, take the scenic track down the Bridle Path Walk, back to the gondola carpark.    

Tick off number two and three on your list by heading into town.  Stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens to discover the finest collection of exotic and native plants in the country before dropping into the Canterbury Museum, Christchurch locals are so justifiably proud of. With free entry, kids will love climbing through the moa cave, digging for fossils, visiting the paua house and walking ‘back in time’ down an old Christchurch street (complete with horse and penny farthing cycle!) This is a lovely 30 minute stroll from the Christchurch motel accommodation to get you slap bang in the middle of a beautify park. 

By now you’re probably feeling peckish. So, amble down to pedestrian mall New Regents Street (our number four destination) to sample some of the best restaurants in Christchurch and the street’s 1930’s style Spanish Mission architecture. Pick up a quick bite, like the whitebait fritters at Café Stir or dine at the top-rated Twenty-Seven Steps (visitors rave about their aged beef fillet with hasselback potatoes). If it’s coffee you’re hankering after, drop into The Caffeine Laboratory or indulge yourself with a late-afternoon cocktail at The Last Word or The Institution. 

Activities five, six and seven on our list will delight both young and old. The excellent Margaret Mahy playground, named after the famous children’s author, is tucked alongside the Avon River and one of the fun stops on the Christchurch Tram’s route. The playground features a double flying fox, large slides, colourful climbing frames, even a splash pad (and for the big kids, great food and coffee trucks on the weekend). Its only a life saving 4 minutes away by car from our Christchurch motel

Want to cool off? Then head to the thrilling International Antarctic Centre Christchurch near the airport, to play in the snow at replica Scott Base, hang out with little Blue Penguins and hop on a rugged Hagglund ride. You’ll feel like an intrepid explorer! 

No trip to Christchurch would be complete without reflecting on local life before and after the February 2011 earthquake. In one afternoon, it changed the city forever. The Quake City exhibition, the 185 White Chairs Memorial and the Cardboard Cathedral are all excellent yet sobering reminders of the resilience and strength of the local Cantabrians and their determination to rebuild a world-class city.  Lest we forget. Which is why the Quake-themed experiences need to make your ‘things to do Christchurch’ top ten list.  

For advice, a city map or tour recommendations, please ask your Bella Vista Motel Christchurch team for help. We’re here to make your visit a treasured memory. 

You’re spoilt for choice for local walks in Blenheim and the Marlborough Region so pack your trainers or hiking boots.  We often get asked about free things to do in Blenheim, so love to recommend the easy hidden trails on our doorstep or scenic hikes through the hills in the surrounding countryside whilst you're staying with us in our Blenheim motel

Pollard Park is a short stroll from the hotel and a must for rose lovers.  A large, wooded park, it features a lovely stream, criss-crossed by bridges, well-tended gardens and best of all for the kids, a playground, including a fenced-in space for the little ones!  An ideal picnic spot and a picturesque place to spend a few hours, this is one of the most family-friendly walks in Blenheim. Take some bread as the ducks are plentiful and hungry. 

A short drive from our motel in Blenheim, The Wither Hills Farm Park traverses a 1,100ha working sheep and cattle farm. One of the best walks around Blenheim, the Wither Hills walking tracks provide many lookout spots across the Wairau Valley, affording panoramic views of Cloudy Bay. Or you can choose to stick to the foothills for a gentler stroll. 

The Taylor River Reserve meanders from central Blenheim along the scenic Taylor River, right up to the Taylor Dam Reserve (near the Wither Hills Mountain Bike Park). As one of the more popular walks in Blenheim, this concrete 5km return track provides an easy gradient with plenty of shady trees and lots of river spots to paddle in. This is a shared trail with bikers and a popular exercise area for dogs.  

Take a bite of the stunning 72km Queen Charlotte Track, one of the more popular day walks around Blenheim, this hike can be enjoyed in stages by taking a water-taxi ride from Picton, an easy half hour drive from the Blenheim motel. Grab a coffee and lunch supplies from Gusto café prior to boarding then sit back and enjoy up close views of the stunning Marlborough Sounds – seals, bobbing penguins or dolphins often make an appearance to surprise and delight passengers.  

Disembark an hour later at Ship Cove, the start of the Queen Charlotte Track, to start a 17km undulating trek through native forest and sparkling coves, back towards Endeavour Inlet. Billed as a five hour walk, a moderate level of fitness is required and good sturdy hiking shoes as the track can be steep and slippery in places. Take plenty of water too. 

Fortify yourself with a refreshing dip and Gusto’s mega sandwiches and ginger crunch topped by large pieces of crystalised ginger. You’ve earnt it before your return water taxi ride back to Picton. 

Get your walking shoes on and ask for trail maps or information from the Bella Vista Motel team. We’ll happily point you in the right direction of the best walks in Blenheim.  

While Blenheim is a popular destination for wine-lovers, the town’s best kept secret is the number of critically acclaimed restaurants both centrally located and based in nearby vineyards. Some of the best places to eat in Blenheim are close to the Blenheim motel so whether you’re a fine diner or a leisurely luncher, we’ve rounded up the best restaurants in Blenheim for your eating pleasure.  

Gramados 

Put this restaurant on your list of ‘Blenheim things to do’. Inspired by a small town in southern Brazil, Gramados blends the best of South American cuisine with the fresh flavours and produce of Marlborough. In Brazil, eating is not only about the food, but also the hospitality and this little restaurant is big on both! Ranked by critics as the best ‘everyday eats’ restaurant in New Zealand, the menu boasts authentic dishes like slow-cooked pork belly with Brazilian guava sauce or a smoky black bean stew with spicy chorizo, pork ribs, Manuka smoked bacon. Their famous Chocolate Volcano dessert might just tip you over. Stop it, we hear you say! With most mains under $40, you’re spoilt for choice with vegetarian and gluten-free options too. Make sure to book ahead, as even mid-week, this popular eatery is buzzing.   

Quench 

Close to the Blenheim motel, you’ll find Quench, one of the only places to eat in Blenheim with a happy hour from 4pm - 7pm if you just want to pop in for a drink. With a varied wine list and a classy low-key vibe, the menu highlights local fare with the knowledgeable team serving up hearty delicious meals ranging from the twice cooked Pork Belly to a tender Lamb Fillet. Don’t be surprised if happy hour turns into a long happy night especially on Fridays, when diners can wine, dine and tap their toes to live music.   

The Tamarind 

Fancy some of the best spicy flavours of Southern India in the South Island? Then head to the Tamarind for a taste trail around the Kerala region and enjoy dishes like pan-sautéed beef with spices, fennel seeds and coconut chips or green lipped mussels sauteed with onion, garlic and garam masala.  The menu also boasts a large selection of tempting vegetarian dishes including the Chef’s special, an eggplant masala cooked in ginger, garlic and coconut milk. Best of all this this family-run eatery is both BYO and regarded as one of the best restaurants in Blenheim with mega five-star reviews.  

Herb and Olive  

For a healthy brunch served with steaming organic Kokako coffee, head to the popular Herb and Olive, named after the owner’s two children. Craving greens? Then choose the sprout slaw topped with halloumi or for a sweet-savoury combo, the French toast with bacon is rated top-notch.  Vegans are also well catered for with offerings like tasty Mexican beans served with avocado and coconut yogurt. If you’re ticking off your Blenheim things to do and wanting lunch on the go, grab a tasty cheese scone from their delicious array of cabinet food. The café also supplies local milk, honey and Kokako coffee beans to locals and visitors in-the-know.  

Arbour 

Arbour is not only one of the best places to eat in Blenheim but possibly the entire country. But who are we to boast? Come try this fine-dining restaurant for yourself.   

Arbour offers feasting menus. You can keep it simple with the ‘Eat Local’ menu, or go all out with ‘The Many’ menu, which can feature sourdough with whipped butter, locally raised New Zealand King Salmon, foraged onion flowers, diamond shell clams, lamb shoulder croquettes, wild venison, or fresh pasta with a mild goats’ curd and walnuts.  

The tasting menu changes out seasonally but rest assured, it’ll include a delectable dessert too. Bookings are highly recommended. And you can relax and take a taxi home knowing its only 11 minutes from our Blenheim accommodation.  

Ask our guest services team at the Bella Vista Motel for restaurant recommendations to suit your tastes, because as locals, we know the best things to do in Blenheim.   

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a leisurely visit, there are so many things to do in Blenheim, you’ll be planning a return visit. Situated in the heart of the wine-growing Marlborough region and with a reputation as New Zealand’s sunniest town, many activities in Blenheim can be enjoyed all year round. Here’s a locally curated list of the five best things to do in Blenheim, both near the Bella Vista Blenheim motel or a short drive away. 

1. Eat and drink your heart out Blenheim-style  

You can’t visit Blenheim without tasting Cloudy Bay clams, the region’s world-famous Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough mussels or the delicious local cheeses. Experience one of New Zealand’s top restaurants, Gramados ranked by Trip Advisor as the country’s top “everyday eats” destination, with delicious mains such as Brazilian fish moqueca and slow-cooked pork belly, for a pinch under $40. 

There are more than 30 wineries close to Blenheim, and most of them offer cellar door tastings making this one of the top Blenheim attractions for visitors. The Cloudy Bay estate, one of the region's first winemakers has an outstanding reputation for hospitality and food. Enjoy a glass of their Pelorus Methode Traditionelle paired with creamy oysters from the clear waters of Te Matuku Bay. In winter, savour a classic glass of Sauvignon curled up next to the Estate’s cosy indoor fireplace. 

2. Stroll around the Marlborough Farmers market 

Keen to mix with the locals? Then include the Marlborough Farmers market on your Blenheim to do list. Touted as New Zealand’s original Farmers’ Market, it runs every Sunday between 9am-12pm at the A&P Showgrounds and showcases the regions freshest seasonal fruit, vegetables and produce. All this fun is only 4 minutes away by car from our Blenheim accommodation.

3. Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre 

A short drive or bike ride from the Blenheim motel will take you to the Omaka Aviation Heritage centre, just one of many Blenheim attractions unique to the area. Discover the lifelike WWI and WWII exhibits featuring the talents of Weta Workshop and some of Sir Peter Jackson’s rare collection of historical aircraft.  For aviation enthusiasts, book a joy ride in a classic Boeing Stearman and marvel at the stunning Marlborough scenery far below, across the Wairau Valley to the broody Richmond Ranges.  

4. Cycle amongst the vines  

One of the more popular things to do in Blenheim is to hire a bike and enjoy a self-guided cycling tour around the Marlborough wine region. Cruise sedately between Blenheim-based cellar doors like Lawson Dry Hills or Wither Hills and sample local wines or pause for a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant. Spend the afternoon cycling down groomed trails or quiet back roads or ditch the bike for a cruisy snooze under leafy vines.  

5. Cruise the Marlborough Sounds 

Add the stunning Marlborough Sounds to your must-do Blenheim attractions. Made up of ancient sunken river valleys including the Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds, the area is a comfortable half-hour drive from our Blenheim motel accommodation. Best experienced on the water, book the top-rated Greenshell Mussel Cruise from Havelock or jump on the Picton Mail Boat Cruise, both great ways to explore hidden inlets and see first-hand how the local’s live in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque spots.  Don’t be surprised if a pod of dolphins pops up and surf alongside so keep your camera handy. 

Whatever your interests, the things to do in Blenheim are plentiful and fun. Contact our guest-services team at the Bella Vista Motel for information on tours or other Blenheim attractions. We’re only too happy to help. 

Often missed by Tekapo-bound road trippers, the Ashburton region is home to some stunning day hikes and mountain bike trails featuring endangered birds, towering mountains, braided rivers, waterfalls and lakes. Nature lovers can hike our backcountry trails in splendid solitude all day without encountering anyone else.  Here we’ve rounded up a few of the best walks and MTB tracks in Ashburton and the surrounding area, based on visitor recommendations and local knowledge.   

Hakatere Conservation Park 

Just an hour’s drive east from our Ashburton motel accommodation is the Hakatere Conservation Park located around the Ashburton Lakes between the Rakaia and Rangitata Rivers. Covering nearly 60,000 hectares of rugged mountain country, forest and sparkling rivers, the park is home to many interesting day walks and Mountain biking tracks. 

Mt Sunday Track

Immortalised in Lord of the Rings as the fortress city of Edoras, is a gentle 90min return walk in the Hakatere area. One of the most popular things to do in Ashburton is to climb Mt Sunday.  The track is flat, except for the final 10-15 minutes before you reach the summit.  At the top (‘my precious’), you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the mountains, grazing cattle, the Rangitata river valley and the Southern divide. The kids will enjoy scuttling over cute bridges to view the opaque cascading waters below. Whether you’re a Lord of the Rings fan (or not), exploring Mt Sunday is one of the great free things to do in Ashburton.  

The Lake Heron tracks

The Lake Heron tracks provide various options depending on your energy levels, from 1.5km up to 10km duration. Discover kettle holes, native birds and panoramic views over the lake and surrounding mountains. For a one-hour return hike, head up the Lake Hill track from the car park through tussock to the summit trig and keep an eye out for black-fronted terns, oystercatchers, Australasian grebes, ducks, swans, and skylarks. Or jump on your Mountain bike and do a loop from Castle Ridge station to Lake Emily , Manuka Hut, Double Hut and finish at Lake Heron or head down The Stour River for one off the most amazing journeys and finish on The Ashburton Gorge Road.

The Lake Clearwater tracks 

The Lake Clearwater tracks are another easy option in providing a 10-km lakeside loop track  Lake Emma is a 13 km loop track and Lake Camp is a 4 km loop either walking or Mountain-biking. For the more adventurous head around the lake's northern shores up to Mystery Lake or onto the TeAaroa walkway or a special walk would be to the Top of MT Guy. Check the weather forecast before heading out as with all Alpine tracks, conditions can change quickly.  

Afterwards head to the popular Staveley Store and Café, for a restorative ice cream or coffee, reputedly the best brew in the region and one of the best places to eat Ashburton-style fare. This is an hour's trip home to your Ashburton motel.

The Ashburton – Hakatere River Trails

The Ashburton – Hakatere River Trails has tracks for walkers and mountain bikers.These much-loved tracks follow the Ashburton River and meander from town through riverside willows. The MTB track is about 11.5km loop and the river walkway has been built to avoid collisions.For those wanting more of a rail trial type ride, we have a track down to Lake Hood on the South side of the Ashburton River which is 7km  This is a great thing to do in Ashburton 

There are plenty of other wonderful walks and mountain biking tracks within the Ashburton area. So pack your hiking shoes and MTB and come stay at the cosy Bella Vista Motel Ashburton to check out the many beautiful walks and MTB tracks in Ashburton and the Canterbury region.

For a charming little town, at the heart of the “food basket” of New Zealand … Hakatere. there are so many great places to eat in Ashburton. 

Whether you’re staying for one night or a few, there’s plenty of variety to keep you well-fed and watered. Here’s our foody guide to a few of Ashburton’s best restaurants, cafes, and cheap eats all within a hop skip and a jump of our Ashburton accommodation. 

Best Hearty Fare in Ashburton 

There is nothing like a hearty meal at the end of a busy day of adventure or busy work meetings. Our motel accommodation in Ashburnton is pretty close to some great ones so here are our top picks for hearty meals.

Cleavers Corner Gastro Pub:

Delivers impressive service and is a popular choice in town. The food is full of flavour, tasty and presented well. This is a delight. This is only 4-minute drive from our Ashburton accommodation. Its the perfect place for a quiet business meeting during the day and in the evening you can unwind and enjoy a delicious range of burgers, grill and snacks.

Speights Ale House:

Casual, comfortable dining with awesome staff that take pride in what they do. A great space to enjoy a meal out with friends or family with quality food. This is only 5 minute's drive from our motel accommodation in Ashburton and our customers get 10% discount when you show your Bella Vista room key

Lake House:

Ashburton is so fortunate to have the Lake House on its doorstep. Excellent service and a lovely outlook over the water make it a relaxing setting. The food is excellent and the deserts are extra yummy! 

The Fine Lion:

The location and ambience are rather special. The first-floor location and extensive balcony dining are unique in Ashburton. Service is attentive, The food is superb with great attention to detail. 

Panther's Rock

Although a short drive away, Ashburton proudly claims the Panther’s Rock as its own because this Mayfield-based restaurant, open for weekend brunch and weeknight dinners, consistently receives five-star reviews.  Named after an alleged sighting of a big cat that made national headlines, the Panther’s Rock serves up big mouth-watering flavours. Cuts of prime Canterbury Porterhouse steaks and Ribeye with homemade mushroom sauce, locally caught Salmon, green-lipped mussels and pulled-pork burgers feature on the menu. With lovely rural views, cosy fireplaces and friendly owners, head here for one of the best things to do in Ashburton.

For the best Asian food in Ashburton  

For a taste of the exotic or those of us who love their spice, we have some great options for Asian cuisine. From Taiwanese to Thai you won't be disappointed by the choice. Here is our list of top picks whilst you are staying at our Ashburton accommodation.

The Formosa:

A tasty twist on Taiwanese cuisine in the heart of Ashburton is only 3-minute's drive from our Ashburton motels.  From the minute you walk in you are made to feel welcome in this beautifully designed restaurant. The food is superb, the desserts are beautifully presented and very flavoursome, Excellent service. 

Miyabi Top in Town:

Indian /Japanese authentic cuisine and beautiful people who take good care of you. The Best Indian in town and offering a 10% discount showing your Bella Vista motel accommodation key.

Koji Japanese:

This is a little gem, and only a minute in the car from our Ashburton motels. The food is just delicious, fresh and tasty. The staff is always friendly and accommodating. It has a nice feel to it because they have decorated the entire walls with bamboo to give it atmosphere 

Ton Thai:

The atmosphere is delightful with friendly superb service. The food is tasty, plentiful and delivered quickly. A great place to take your family or group of friends. 

While not a new restaurant in Ashburton, it's Sweet and sour chicken, orange pork, and Kumara fries tossed in plum powder are local favourites.  Small plates include Teriyaki sushi, Spicy chicken bao or pulled pork buns. 

For the Best Cafés in Ashburton 

We love our coffee here, and our local cafes make it easy for us to indulge. 

• Visit the Somerset Grocer’s Café for delicious cabinet food, a varied menu, even a Kapiti ice cream bar making this one of the more kid-friendly places to eat in Ashburton. While you eagerly await your Big Breakfast or Nourish bowl – a tasty blend of chicken, avocado and zesty orange dressing, browse the gourmet goods and gifts on offer.  
• Robert Harris: Easy and Handy location,  just along the road, heaps of parking, great coffee, Breakfast is the best-allowing chargeback arrangements to the Bella Vista Ashburton Motel for corporate customers 
• Millhouse Kitchen: Love the outdoor space here, especially in the summer, Great coffee, chargebacks to the motel are an option, Good parking and only 2 minutes from our Ashburton motel accommodation 
• Triangle Espresso: Offering a lovely space to enjoy a coffee and either chill or work at the window seat has an uplifting feel, right down to inspirational quotes and lovely prints of nature and plants on the walls, I just love it! Happy friendly staff that love what they do. 

For the Best Bakery in Ashburton  

While other bakeries are vying for the best places to eat in Ashburton, Harvey’s Bakehouse takes the cake. The mark of a great baker are their pies and Harvey’s has a reputation for light, flaky pastry and yummy fillings like pepper steak, smoky beef and BBQ bacon. This friendly home-style bakehouse also serves up traditional sweet treats like Rocky Road, custard-piped brioche and black-forest cheesecake. It is truly a great Ashburton cheap eats option just a 10-minute jaunt from the Ashburton motel.  

For the Best Takeaway in Ashburton 

Local chip connoisseurs think the Creek Road Fish and Chip Shop serve up the best in Ashburton hands down, as good as the double-fried chips found in Belgium. Place your order over the phone as this spot gets busy on the weekend and best of all it’s only a 2-minute drive from the Ashburton motel!  A great choice for all your fast-food favourites. 

While we’ve hopefully whetted your appetite on the best places to eat in Ashburton . Please ask the Bella Vista Motel team for up-to-date information and local dining recommendations. 

Ashburton is not just a gateway to Christchurch or Tekapo. It’s a stunning mid-Canterbury destination in its own right, boasting great restaurants, fly fishing, the beautiful Ashburton lakes and the spectacular Rakaia Gorge for thrill seekers. Check out this short break guide for the best things to do in Ashburton and the mid-Canterbury area when you stay with us in our motel accommodation in Ashburton.  

Get Active on the Bike Trails in Ashburton

There are many mountain biking options, for every level of expertise and confidence in Mid Canterbury, You can stay and play for days on our trails. Mt Hutt Bike Park, 30 minutes drive from our Ashburton motels from downhill to cross-country trails. Cycle through some of the most spectacular high country of Hakatere Conservation Park or a short sweet ride along the banks of the Ashburton River.

Enjoy a Scenic Drive and a Cuppa

From our Ashburton motel take a 30-minute drive on the Inland Scenic Route out to the Staveley Store and Café nestled in the shadow of Mount Somers and close to some superb walks. Rumoured to serve the best coffee in the region, the sausage rolls, home-baked goods, and bacon butties make this one of the more popular places to eat Ashburton-style fare.  Established in 1876 as a general store servicing the surrounding timber mills and farms, the shop showcases goods from nearby Mt Somers Station - seasonal farm produce, lamb, venison, veal, honey and olive oil.  

But it’s the coffee that’s the real McCoy. Sit on the veranda, admire Mt Somers, and watch local life pass by over the rim of a coffee cup.  

Take a Hike in Ashburton

If you love to walk, pop up to Sharplin Falls car park and enjoy the fresh air walking through the mountain beech forest alongside Bowyers Stream. If you like a bit of huffing and puffing a climb up to Hookey’s Knob will treat you with spectacular views. My favourite is the Rhyolite Ridge Track on the Mount Somers walkway. The route takes in dynamic scenery within a landscape of waterfalls, beach forest, deep icy pools and rocky tors. 

Head for the nearby Lake Clearwater Circuit Track. The 10km hike will take around 3 hours and is considered one of the best walks in Ashburton and beyond, its an hour's drive back to put your feet up again at your Ashburton accommodation

Discover Classic Planes at the Ashburton Aviation Museum 

Located just a 5-minute drive from the Ashburton Motel, this is one of the great hidden things to do in Ashburton and a magnet for young and old aviation enthusiasts, as it’s free for kids. Did you know that Ashburton was a major air force training base in World War Two accommodating 50 Tiger Moths and military personnel?  Not many people do! The museum is now home to beautifully restored planes in its shiny new hanger and has recently acquired a retired RNZAF Skyhawk. You can easily spend an interesting afternoon here, especially on a rainy day. 

Have a Blast at the Rakaia Gorge 

There is no better way to explore the Rakaia Gorge, than with Discovery Jet, one of the more adventurous things to do in Ashburton and the surrounding area.  Drive 40 minutes inland towards Mount Hutt from the motel accommodation in Ashburton then take a thrilling jet boat ride through the Gorge and enjoy the 10 km walking track that follows the rim of the Gorge through spectacular geological areas. At the Car park overlooking the Gorge and its crystal clear blue water is a Sculpture that highlights the story of the Taniwha. It’s such a cool story about the Northwest wind and the Taniwha. 

While learning about its history and unique features, from your knowledgeable local guide.   

Chill Out in the Ashburton Domain   

Well known for its large adventure playground, this is one of the free things to do in Ashburton enjoyed by local families.Great for a bit of fresh air, take a run on the fitness track, feed the ducks on the lake, enjoy the gardens or picnic in the park and a junior bike track provides training-wheels fun for beginner riders. Only 2 minutes drive from Bella Vista Ashburton.

Savour a Taste of the Orient 

After a day in the outdoors, you’ve probably drummed up a hearty appetite.  For the best Asian food in Ashburton, book dinner at The Formosa, a tasty twist on Taiwanese cuisine and close to the motel.  One of my favourite restaurant in Ashburton, its sweet and sour chicken, orange pork, and Kumara fries tossed in plum powder are enduring local favourites.  Small plates include Teriyaki sushi, Spicy chicken bao or pulled pork buns. 

With so many things to do in Ashburton, ask our team at the Bella Vista Motel for local recommendations, especially the best places to eat in Ashburton. We are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out. 

Sandwiched between a craggy mountain range and the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura is a foodie paradise enjoying a bountiful harvest from both land and sea.  With so many great places to eat in Kaikoura just a short walk from the motel, you’ll discover why this town is not only the crayfish capital of New Zealand, but a mecca of great eating – all served up with a dollop of South Island charm.

Cods and Crayfish
Grab the catch of the day at this family-run seafood spot.  Rated by visitors as one of the best take out places to eat in Kaikoura, your fish will probably be cooked by the people who caught it. Want a whole crayfish and a scoop of crisp and fluffy hot chips? Or maybe a fillet of battered juicy blue cod with a side of crunchy squid rings?  No problem. While you wait, the kids will be entertained by the fish tank housing live crayfish and crabs making this one of the best food-centric attractions in Kaikoura. Grab some delicious flaky smoked fish to go, as this place boasts its own smokehouse.

Black Rabbit Pizza
If you’ve overindulged in the local kaimoana (seafood), put this pizzeria on your list of ‘Kaikoura things to do’.  Locals rave about the Black Rabbit’s ‘Shrek and Dolly’ pizza –imagine roast lamb, caramelized onion, pumpkin, mozzarella cheese, & mint sauce drizzle served on a delicious crispy base, served piping hot from the pizza oven.  These guys are gourmet geniuses, with 13 pizza creations on offer, whizzing up tasty vegetarian combos too - like homemade tomato pizza sauce, pesto and jalapeños. But wait there’s more! Their caramel cookie dough cheesecake dessert pizza might just pop those top buttons. So maybe take a breather or get it boxed to go!

                                             
 

Zephyr
Billed as a stylish, modern ‘downtown’ eatery, Zephyr is regarded by visitors as one of the best restaurants in Kaikoura with a bistro-styled menu unapologetically focussed on local game – think venison, duck and ribeye beef – and a great little wine list to boot.  No doubt booked by locals for a special night out, this hidden gem will appeal to couples or a bunch of friends who might opt to share the slow roasted Lamb Shoulder - for two – served with rosemary jus, duck fat roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Go on, make a booking, you deserve it.

                                                                          
 

Sime’s Kitchen
The new-ish kid on the block is fast becoming one of the best daytime places to eat in Kaikoura.  Sime’s Kitchen offers hearty fare with its origins harking back to a famous 40-year plus Dunedin bakery, run by owner Sam’s family.  Yes, classic Eggs Bene is on the menu but how about tucking into French toast with fresh figs and pistachio cream while sipping on a piping hot brew of People’s Coffee (try saying that fast!).  Need lunch on the run? The cabinet is stocked with sweet and savoury treats based on Sam’s grandfather’s recipes, often made with the famous Hislop’s organic wholemeal flour and honey and other locally sourced ingredients. Truly, one of the more delicious things to do in Kaikoura which may hurt the waistline (but not your wallet).

Ask our guest services team at the Bella Vista Motel for recommendations, because as locals, we not only know the best restaurants in Kaikoura but also the top attractions in the surrounding area. 

                                       

We often get asked about free things to do in Kaikoura, so love to recommend the local walking tracks for views of the coastline, native forest and wildlife unique to the area.  Here’s our pick of the top tracks and trails, either a short distance from the motel or further afield – easily done as a day trip.
 

Tick off the Kaikoura Lookout (1 hour each way)
Build up an appetite for the local seafood by undertaking one of the steeper walks in Kaikoura up to the town’s lookout. This is an easily accessible viewpoint which reveals panoramic views of the peninsula, especially at sunset. Ask us for directions or from the Esplanade, head up Tom's Track to the Lookout and return down Dempsey’s Track for a well-deserved refreshment on the water’s edge.
 

Wander up the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway (2-3 hours)
Regarded as one of the best walks in Kaikoura because it combines stunning views, a great workout and sometimes a distant encounter with seals at low tide. Starting from the Point Kean seal colony main car park, the track climbs past informative panels dotted along the route so you’ll learn about the history and ecology of the area.

                                
 

Attack the Mt Fyffe Summit Track (8 hours)
If you fancy one of the more challenging day walks in Kaikoura (just a short drive from town), then this day hike might appeal. It’s a steep trek to the summit of Mt Fyffe but the stunning panoramic views of the Kaikoura Ranges and its snow-capped mountains are breath taking. On a clear day, you might just spot the Banks Peninsula and the North Island. The hike begins at the Mount Fyffe carpark and with a good level of fitness, should take between six to eight hours to complete. For a shorter hike, head up to the Mt Fyffe Hut (5 hours return) or the lookout point, just an hour above the carpark.

                                
 

Hit the Hinau Track (45-minute loop)
Named after the Hinau tree which grow alongside the trail, this gentle walk is one of the family-friendly things to do in Kaikoura. The 45-minute loop track also starts at the base of Mt Fyffe carpark, an easy 10-minute drive from the motel.  Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the sounds of regenerating birdlife as you wander through native forest on this well-formed track. There is an unbridged stream which in normal conditions, is easy to step across without getting your shoes wet.

Guests often ask us at the Bella Vista Motel about the best walks in Kaikoura. So we’ll happily suggest options to suit your level of fitness or timeframe and point you in the right direction.

While our stunning coastline and whale watching excursions are major Kaikoura attractions, there are so many things to do in Kaikoura, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Incredible scenic walks, some of the best seafood in New Zealand and dolphin encounters are also hallmarks of our charming seaside village, largely rebuilt following the 2016 Earthquake. Here’s our round up of the best things to do in Kaikoura.

Indulge your love of marine life.
Who doesn’t love friendly dolphins?  One of the most popular Kaikoura attractions are the dolphin encounters, with the tour check in located just ten minutes from the motel. Where else in New Zealand can you get up, close and personal with some of the world’s most beautiful sea life? Visitors who book a tour marvel at the pods of dolphin which glide alongside, and you have the option on calmer summer days of swimming with the dusky dolphins right off the boat in a small group. A lifetime memory which most agree, is one of the best things to do in Kaikoura.  Booking in advance is highly recommended especially in the busy summer season.   

Discover Whale Watching Wow!
Add a whale watching boat tour to the top of your Kaikoura things-to-do list. Around 80% of the world’s whale and dolphin species migrate past the town’s coastline providing a huge 95% chance of spotting a giant sperm whale on your tour. Whale Watch Kaikoura provide modern catamaran boats with large outside viewing decks and quiet engines to minimise underwater noise. Whale watching is a popular thing to do in Kaikoura, so once again book ahead!

                                     
 

Savour fresh seafood
Kaikoura means ‘meal of crayfish’ so where better to experience what many believe is the food of royalty than the popular Kaikoura Seafood BBQ stall right by the beach?  One of many alfresco places to eat in Kaikoura, choose your crayfish then watch the team grill it to order on the BBQ. With a side serving of rice, garden salad, garlic bread and an outdoor view of the ocean, it’ll be hard to beat. Or if crayfish isn’t your thing, sample another local delicacy, the mouth-watering whitebait fritters for just $8 a pop or freshly battered blue cod fish and chips.  

Visit The Point Kean Seal Colony
One of the best free things to do in Kaikoura is to meet the locals!  Which includes the local seals too. You might just encounter a large fur seal lolling on the boardwalk at the entrance to the Point Kean Seal Colony. The ideal time for viewing is at low tide when the seals emerge from the sea, sunbathe and roll around near the car park but please keep your distance and respect the wildlife in this Department of Conservation managed area.

Enjoy the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
Feel like a hike?  Starting from the Point Kean seal colony main car park, this is one of the best walks in Kaikoura. Take binoculars as you’ll be on the lookout for whales and dolphins from the superb coastal vantage points.  With informative panels dotted along the route, you’ll learn about the history and ecology of the area. The walkway only takes two to three hours to complete so it’s a comfortable half-day hike.

                                    

Spot an Albatross
High on the list of Kaikoura attractions is the areas’ varied birdlife.  Nature lovers will relish the diverse seabirds including 12 species of the majestic Albatross, shearwaters, petrel, and several penguins, gulls and protected terns. This is best experienced on an albatross encounter boat cruise with a knowledgeable local guide.

With so many things to do in Kaikoura, ask our guest services team at the Bella Vista Motel for help in deciding, especially when the weather and sea conditions can affect your options.  We’re only too happy to help and can guarantee you’ll have a ‘whale of a time’ in beautiful Kaikoura.