Waimate Itinerary

Edwardian buildings line the main street of this charming peaceful country town of Waimate. Tall trees and a taller concrete silo mark Waimate, a centre for farming, forestry and berryfruits. The Whitehorse on the Hunter hills made from concrete slabs commemorates the Clydesdale horses, which were originally used to break in the land.

The Journey

Depart Christchurch and head south following State Highway 1 to Timaru and then 46 kms south turn onto State Highway 82 to Waimate. The drive will take approximately 3 hours (allowing for minimal stops). The journey enroute offers the visitor a variety of places to stop at including Ashburton and Timaru.

The Activities

• Te Waimate Historic Station. A kilometre long avenue of beautiful oaks brings visitors to a tour of the thatched cuddy, the original farmhouse built in 1854 by Michael and John Studholme and faithfully restored to its original condition. The tour leads on to the brick stables, creamery, phutta or storehouse and on to one of New Zealand’s oldest working woolsheds.
• Kelceys Bush Farmyard Holiday Park – discover wallabies and several farm animals on a short walk. Magnificent examples of the silver fern and views of both native bush and mountains.
• A major attraction to the area is the red necked or brush wallaby. They can be seen in parks around Waimate and in prolific numbers in the native bush and forestry hills behind the town.
• Many outdoor enthusiasts are lured to the Waimate district to enjoy the excellent hunting and fishing. Hundreds of fisherman migrate to the Waitaki river every summer for the thrill of catching a trophy salmon. The lakes area is also popular for trout fishing.
• Te Kiteroa is an exclusive, stately old home built in 1910 by Mrs Emily Phillips (1835 - 1921) housekeeper for Allan McLean (1822 - 1907) “New Zealand’s last great sheep Baron", who farmed 48,000, acres in this area. At 400 feet above sea level, enhancing the ambience of Te Kiteroa, a frost-free climate allows for a glorious collection of plants gathered together for their therapeutic properties and essential oil.
• There are many and various walkways in and around Waimate. These include a Town Heritage Walk which has 30 points of interest, bush walks that take you back in time, forest walks, beach walks, river walks, park walks, garden walks and walks which take you to the tops of mountains with views of the surrounding areas, sea and mountains. Each walk has its own individuality, character and charm.
• Visit the Maori Rock Drawings The Moa Cave, (Valley of the Moa) The Wedged Tailed Eagle Cave
• One of South Canterbury’s oldest homes, ‘The Secret Garden’, built in the late 1860's, belonged to the Manchester family who were one of the first families to farm the area. The property is now a homestay and the garden is open to the public.
• Maureen Allison’s Garden. Visit a 2 acre established garden with roses, camellias, rhododendrons, iris and lilies with conifers and trees.
• Birchwood Garden. A large garden featuring many rhododendrons, woodland walk, bog garden, rock gardens and rose arbour.
• Blue Cliffs Station. Rhododendrons, majestic trees and woodland gardens surround the homestead built in 1890. Picnics welcome.
• Craigburn. A woodland garden with rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias. View porcelain dolls, teddy bears and patchwork. Open by appointment only.
• EnkleDooVery Korna. Wallaby Park. Hand raised tame Wallabies and Gift shop.

Option

Depart Christchurch and head south, following State Highway 73 and then onto the Inland Scenic Route 72, through Methven, Mt Somers, Geraldine and then continue on State Highway 1 to Timaru, then State Highway 82 to Waimate.

After visiting the attractions in Waimate travel up the Waitaki Valley to State Highway 83 to Omarama then head back to Christchurch through the MacKenzie Country along State Highway 8.

Operation/Time to allow/Distance from Christchurch

• Te Waimate Historic Station/1 - 1½ hours/3 hours
• Kelceys Bush Holiday Farmyard/1 - 1½ hours/3 hours
• Te Kiteroa/1 - 1½ hours/3 hours
• Waimate Walks/1 hour - ½ day/3 hours
• Maori Rock Drawings/1 - 1½ hours/3 hours
• The Secret Garden/1 hour/3 hours
• Maureen Allison’s Garden/1 hour/3 hours
• Birchwood Garden/1 hour/3 hours
• Blue Cliffs Station/1 hour/3 hours
• Craigburn/1 hour/3 hours
• Enkle Doo Very Korna/1 - 1½ hours/3 hours