8 New Zealand Towns With A Slower Pace Of Life
Situated across the Tasman Sea from Australia, the Oceanic island nation of Aotearoa (or New Zealand) provides ample opportunities to slow down and enjoy the finer things in life. Whether you fancy sipping world-class wines or climbing some mighty mountains, New Zealand has just the place for you. Of course, this nation also offers spectacularly pristine beaches, leafy temperate rainforests, and healing hot springs. And if you know where to go, you can even find the real places where The Lord of the Rings movies were filmed.
In Aotearoa, there’s no need to hurry up and wait. Rather, feel free to move at your own pace while exploring these eight New Zealand towns with a slower pace of life.
Twizel
Situated in the Mackenzie District of New Zealand’s South Island, Twizel is the perfect town to make your base camp for all sorts of South Island wilderness excursions. A short drive up the road is Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed nature preserve that boasts the nation’s highest summits (including the namesake Aoraki / Mount Cook at 3,724 metres, or 12,218 feet) and largest glaciers. On the way back to town, stop at Lake Pūkaki to take in the incredible views of the nearby mountains and the crystal-clear water of this glacier-fed lake.
Even if you fancy an easier day outside, it’s quite easy to book a tee time at Ben Ōhau Golf Club and play nine holes of golf on this uniquely scenic course. Whatever you decide to do in and around town, it’s always a good idea to cap off your day with a luxurious stay at Matuka Lodge.
Methven
Methven, which is also known as Piwakawaka in Māori, may only be about 98 kilometres (or 61 miles) west of the South Island’s largest city of Christchurch, yet this town soars to incredible heights on and off the slopes. During the winter season, Mt Hutt Ski Field provides the ultimate Southern Alps skiing and snowboarding experiences with 365 hectares (or 902 acres) of expert-friendly skiable terrain offering up to 683 metres (or 2,241 feet) of vertical drop. But even if you miss ski season, there’s a lot more to see and do around Methven, including the Pudding Hill Stream Route for challenging yet beautiful hikes through the Mount Hutt Forest.
Once you’re ready to rest and recover, check into Ōpuke Thermal Pools & Spa to soak up the soothing vibes of their solar-heated pools and premium spa treatments. Then, check into Fable Terrace Downs Resort for a refined high-country haven with its own 18-hole championship golf course, a sports centre offering hunting and archery excursions, and well-appointed rooms and suites with premium furnishings and amenities.
Akaroa
A taste of France… in New Zealand?! Yes, really, you can go about 83 kilometres (or 52 miles) south of Christchurch to discover the village of Akaroa and its uniquely French flair. In short, the French Empire attempted to colonise this region in the 1830s, but the South Island Māori tribal chiefs’ decision to sign the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi made it easier for the British Empire to take control here. Yet to this day, you can still catch signs of French influence around town. Even better, you can taste it at fine local restaurants like Ma Maison.
If you crave some more tasty treats, you’re in luck, as Akaroa has grown into a sort of foodie fantasyland. More specifically, it’s worth a stop at Pot Pourri to try their famous fudge and shop for cool souvenirs, and at Barrys Bay Cheese for a wide variety of locally-made, European-style cheeses. From there, make your way to Blythcliffe for a wonderfully historic (1857) bed-and-breakfast featuring meals made with organic and locally sourced ingredients, as well as organic and sustainable bath products en suite.
Hanmer Springs
At the north end of the South Island’s Canterbury region is the high country resort town of Hanmer Springs. When you’re apt to get active outside, try mountain biking on the region’s world-class trails, including the Eagles Nest Trail that offers panoramic views at the top, and the Tank Track with its signature switchbacks. But really, Hanmer Springs is also about relaxation and taking it slow. If you’re inclined to enjoy some more relaxing downtime, head over to The Spa at Hanmer Springs and take your pick from their menu of sumptuous spa treatments featuring premium New Zealand-made wellness products.
To complete your Hanmer Springs experience, book a stay at Tussock Peak Lodge, a locally-owned hotel with its own thermal pools, on-site electric vehicle charging, and comfortable homestyle accommodations.
Martinborough
Near the south end of Aotearoa’s North Island, about 82 kilometres (or 51 miles) east of Wellington, is the classically flavourful wine village of Martinborough. This town is home to over 20 wineries, including the award-winning Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays at Palliser Estate, and local hand-crafted takes on varietals like Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Semillon, and Tempranillo at Poppies Martinborough.
If, for whatever reason, you need a break from the wineries, go ahead and hit the links at the lovely and historic Martinborough Golf Club, that’s been operating in town since 1908. And for the ultimate wine country escape, try a stay at the elegant Parehua Resort that’s set amidst working vineyards yet keeps you within minutes of all the main attractions in town.
Havelock North
Just south of Hastings in the Hawke’s Bay region is Havelock North, a quaint country town full of natural delights. Do a hike at Te Mata Park to walk through a century-old redwood forest and get panoramic views of Hawke’s Bay at the mountain summit. Or, for an easier journey, ride the Hawke’s Bay Cycle Trails, a 200 kilometre-long network of bike trails connecting local wineries, country pubs, lovely beaches, and much more. Speaking of beaches, Havelock North is also within easy reach of Ocean Beach, a largely pristine expanse of Pacific Ocean coastline that’s ideal for surfing, swimming, and diving.
To make your Havelock North sojourn even better, book a villa at 305 in the Vines, a modern and stylish retreat surrounded by vineyards with all the space you need for your group (or just yourself).
Matamata
Around 62 kilometres (or 39 miles) east of Hamilton is the enchanting village of Matamata, a town so magical that it made the perfect backdrop for some of the world’s most beloved films. If you’re a dedicated Lord of the Rings and Hobbit fan, you may already know that many scenes in these movies are filmed in the area. To see the magic yourself, head out to Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours and discover the 1,250-acre farm that Sir Peter Jackson used to bring J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic stories to life in New Zealand.
Even beyond Hobbiton, Matamata has some more special corners that will make you feel like you’re living in a fairy tale. In town, visit the Firth Tower to tour this historic (1882) estate farm that’s now a local museum open to the public. A little farther east, you will find Matamata Golf Club, a public course that’s open all year yet feels otherworldly with its gorgeous set of greens. And for something extra special, check into Villa Walton and enjoy this unique boutique inn where you might feel inspired to write your own epic tales.
Whangamatā
Nestled on the storied shores of the Coromandel Peninsula, around 160 kilometres (or 100 miles) southeast of Auckland, is the beautiful beach town of Whangamatā. If you like surfing, you may quickly fall in love with Whangamatā thanks to phenomenal local surf breaks like those at Whangamatā Beach and Onemana Beach. But even if you prefer traversing on dry land, Whangamatā amazes. Just head south to Wentworth Valley (part of Coromandel Forest Park) to find a lush, forested campsite with a walking track that leads to the gorgeous waterfall at Wentworth Falls.
No matter how much or how little you’re hoping to do during your time at Whangamatā, you will feel right at home upon arrival at Brenton Lodge. It’s a picture-perfect country retreat that makes for an ideal base camp for outdoor excursions across the Coromandel, as well as cozy romantic getaways to disconnect from the troubles of the world and reconnect with a special someone in your life.
Take It Slow and Take As Much Time As You Need in These New Zealand Towns
Aotearoa is one amazing archipelago that invites itself to slow exploration and satisfying relaxation. Ascend to new heights at the dazzling mountain town of Twizel. Discover a uniquely international town full of exotic flavours in Akaroa. Toast to the good life in the luscious wine country village of Martinborough. And for the ultimate day (or week) at the beach, it’s hard to beat the incredible shores of Whangamatā. With so much to experience across New Zealand, it’s always a great idea to slow down and enjoy the journey.
