What to Do in Cheviot: A Classic Kiwi Rural Town
Surrounded by rolling farmland, spectacular coastline and two braided rivers, Cheviot is a picturesque town on the South Island. Located along State Highway 1 between Christchurch and Kaikoura, there’s no excuse not to stop here and sample the local wines, visit the museum or make a special trip to the nearby Gore Bay. So take a closer look at what Cheviot has to offer with this list of things to do in Cheviot!
While you’re here, you might also be interested in the 10 Amazing Things to Do in Hanmer Springs and 10 Christchurch Must-Dos.
1. Walk to Manuka Bay
Soak Cheviot’s coastal scenery on this amazing walk between Port Robinson and the Hurunui River mouth. The Manuka Bay Track, otherwise known as the Port Robinson Walkway, is a 1h45min one-way trail through a mix of farmland and coastal bush. There are plenty of open scenic areas along the way to admire the coastal, ocean and river views.
Location: Manuka Bay, Port Robinson Road, 17km (10.5 miles) south of Cheviot
© Phillip Capper on Flickr2. Stop by the Cheviot Domain
What was once the grounds of an early landowner is now a picturesque reserve for all to enjoy. The Cheviot Domain is awash with exotic trees and flowers, a must-see in spring when the daffodils are in bloom. Otherwise, the domain is a great place to stretch your legs, have a picnic or watch a game of cricket at the Cheviot Cricket Club. You can walk to the domain via a dedicated walking track, starting in town from Gore Bay Road and State Highway 1.
Location: Seddon Street, Levin Street, Ward Road or Miller Street
© Mattinbgn on Wikipedia3. Spend the Day at Gore Bay
Just 8km (5 miles) from Cheviot is the popular local holiday destination of Gore Bay. The beach is excellent for surfing, fishing and exploring the reefs and rock pools. The bay is also lined with classic Kiwi baches (holiday homes) of all colours – some dating back to 1865. Take advantage of this picturesque area by staying in one of the three campsites. Plus, be sure to walk/drive up and back down Cathedral Road at the southern end of Gore Bay for wonderful views of the Cathedral Cliffs.
Location: Gore Bay, 8km (5 miles) south of Cheviot
© Mattinbgn on Wikipedia4. Do the Tweedies Gully Walk
A fantastic walk at the southern end of Gore Bay, the Tweedies Gully Walk takes you through magnificent coastal forest to a lookout over Pegasus Bay. This 1-2-hour one-way walk is an easy-going walk and can either be accessed from Gore Bay beach or from Gore Bay township by following the yellow signs.
Location: Southern end of Gore Bay beach
© Mattinbgn on Wikipedia5. Taste Wines at Mt Beautiful
Cheviot lies in proximity to the premium winemaking region of the Waipara Valley. Taste some of its finest wines at the Mt Beautiful tasting room right in the heart of Cheviot. Enjoy an informative wine tasting of the current vintages and sit down for a glass with a sharing platter. See more tasting rooms to visit in the area with our 10 Wonderful Wineries in the Waipara Valley.
Location: Hall Street
© NZPocketGuide.com6. Visit the Cheviot Museum
Learn about what rural life was like in New Zealand in the 1850s and see fascinating artefacts that were discovered in the Cheviot Hills, such as bones from an extinct giant bird called a moa. All of this and more is available at the Cheviot Museum on Cheviot’s main street. The museum is open through summer every Sunday.
Location: Hall Street
© Pixabay7. Jump on a Jet Boat Tour
Blast along the shallow turquoise waters of the Hurunui River with Energy Jet. It’s a scenic ride over braided channels, canyons and boulder fields passing under three bridges. Your guide will stop several times to tell you more about the fascinating history of this area, as well as throw in a few 360-degree spins for good measure!
Location: Hurunui River Bridge, 18km (11 miles) south of Cheviot
© Energy JetMore Things to Do Near Cheviot
- The Complete Guide to Hanmer Springs
- The Complete Guide to Kaikoura
- 10 Must-Dos in and Around Hanmer Springs
That’s it for the best things to do in Cheviot. Find more activities for your travels in the 51 Best Things to Do in the South Island.
