Last minute planning? Don't stress, let us plan out your getaway. An anniversary or last-minute birthday escape - Here’s your ready made 48-hour itinerary for a Hanmer Springs weekend... you're welcome!

Need a weekend escape from Christchurch that’s easy, relaxing, and great value? Hanmer Springs is hard to beat. Just a short drive North, this alpine village offers the perfect mix of scenery, comfort, and simplicity.

With cooler days on the way, golden leaves, snowy peaks and fewer crowds, an autumn getaway Hanmer Springs is all about slowing down and enjoying the moment. Consider this post your weekend guide.

Day One: Arrive and unwind

So you've just arrived in Hanmer Springs, city noise swapped for fresh mountain air. Of course you've booked a holiday home with HHH, as you settle straight into your beautiful accommodation with sweeping mountain views. Drop your bags, get comfortable, and ease into holiday mode.

A stroll through the village is the perfect way to start, before heading to the iconic Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa. As the temperature drops, soaking in the warm mineral pools becomes even more enjoyable, making it a must-do on any visit.

Finish the day with a relaxed dinner at one of the many local restaurants (Recommendations: Fire & Ice, Tease, MK Restaurant) or a quiet night back at your holiday home. Put the log burner on, put your feet up and relax. A nice Shiraz in front of the fire, or a warming tea to round out the day.

Day Two: Slow starts and fresh air

Start your morning with a slow coffee on the deck, enjoy the crisp alpine air on the deck or pop into a local coffee spot, grab a breakfast (Recommendations: Rustic Cafe, Powerhouse Cafe, Salt N Pepper Cafe) then head out to explore - Explore local tracks and forest or go further a field and visit Dog Stream waterfall or even into the Molesworth for its epic landscapes. Autumn is ideal for walking, and Hanmer Forest offers a range of easy trails surrounded by colour. Or bring your MTB and hit the bike trails, check out the track maps here.

A local classic activity is to walk up Conical Hill. The climb is short, and the views over the valley are well worth it.

Spend the rest of your day at your own pace, whether that’s browsing local shops, enjoying a long lunch, or heading back to relax in your holiday home.

Hanmer in Autumn is majestic! 

Just look at the image at the top of the blog! Autumn is one of the best times to visit Hanmer. The pace is slower, the weather temperate, many of the trees turn golden and it’s often easier to find cheaper accommodation. It’s the ideal mix of value and experience, making it perfect for a quick break away.

If you’re after something simple, scenic, and close to Christchurch, Hanmer Springs delivers the best on all fronts! And we've already planned your weekend, so no excuses!