Kaiapoi isite Visitor Information Centre

27/04/2024

Come and see us if you are wanting a Fishing Licence, and pick up your free monthly The Fishing and Hunting Paper 🎣🐟

We have great fishing spots here in North Canterbury.

Rainbow trout are a lot more active than brown in the lakes over the winter months.
Salmon fishing in the East coast rivers such as the Rakaia, Rangitata and Waitaki rivers gets underway in January and some excellent ser-run salmon are caught by anglers fishing the river mouth and further up these snow-fed rivers that run out through the canterbury plains to the Pacific ocean.

Often in May, and especially the first half of May, the weather is quite settled as high-pressure systems sit over the country, allowing for relaxing boat fishing. Many rivers, canals and lakes are open to fishing in May, and it can be a very productive time for targeting brown trout.

🎣 Grab your rods, and come in and see us to get your Fishing Licence. (143 Williams Street, Kaiapoi), or call Anna or Pauline on 03 327 3134.

Learn more: https://visitwaimakariri.co.nz/home/isite/

24/04/2024

With ANZAC Day this Thursday we will be closed on Thursday 25 April and will re-open on Friday 26 April 2024 at 8:30am - 5:00pm.

Useful Numbers:
Police – Non emergency 105
Police/Fire/Ambulance emergency 111
Intercity Buses – 03 365 1113
Interislander Ferry – 0800 802 802
Bluebridge Ferry – 0800 844 844
KiwiRail Trains – 0800 872 467
Kaiapoi River Queen Cruises – 027 435 0596
Department of Conservation – 03 379 4082
Christchurch isite – 03 365 1900

You can also call 03 327 3134 and leave a message.
We will call you back on our return.
Alternatively, email [email protected]

23/04/2024

There are a number of ANZAC Day ceremonies and events planned across the Waimakariri District on Wednesday and Thursday.

Learn more here: https://www.waimakariri.govt.nz/council/news-and-information/2024/04/anzac-ceremonies-in-waimakariri

18/04/2024

Book your next dog-friendly holiday with us! 🦮🐾

We know that your dogs are a special part of your family - now there are many options to travel with your furry friends so you can take them with you as you explore New Zealand.

🛳 The Bluebridge Interisland Ferry offers: Dog-Friendly cabins. There are a limited number of dedicated dog-friendly cabins (2 bed from $65*; 4 bed from $85*) available on select sailings that can accommodate up to two dogs.

🛳 Interislander Ferry offers: Your dog can have a comfortable journey in the familiar surroundings of your car, or we have onboard kennels you can book from *$18 per kennel.

🛏 We can also assist you to find dog friendly accommodation for your next holiday within our beautiful country.

🐾 We would love the opportunity to help you plan your next dog-friendly holiday - come in and see us (143 Williams Street, Kaiapoi), or call Anna or Pauline on 03 327 3134.

Learn more: https://visitwaimakariri.co.nz/home/isite/

*terms and conditions apply

17/04/2024

Get in quick 📣

📞 Call to check availability on (03) 3273134 or pop in to see us at 143 Williams Street, Kaiapoi.

💸 Learn more about the other packages we have on offer on our website: https://visitwaimakariri.co.nz/packages/

15/04/2024

Don't forget to head to the river this weekend and join in the fun!

We have some wonderful market stalls coming to the Riversong Kaiapoi Festival on the 20th April, including Copperworkx, Emz Craftique, Essential Way, fantailsandroses, Kowhai Kaikoura, Lilibell Crystals , Lily Peas Blossom, Paige and Maiden, Redrockhats, Sacred Heart, Snuffle Stuff, Herbalists NZ.

05/04/2024

Come see us at the Kaiapoi isite.

Open Monday to Friday 8:30-5:00pm. We can assist, create, formulate and book your dream holiday in our beautiful Aotearoa.

Our popular itineraries have been self drive, train journeys, overnight cruises on the stunning Doubtful Sound just to name a few....... don't put it off - make your dream a reality . Come in and see the friendly team at Kaiapoi isite (143 William Street) - we have free parking behind us off Charles Street, or call us on 03 327 3134 💖🇳🇿

03/04/2024

Tickets available from Kaiapoi isite now.
Avoid disappointment and book soon 🎬
Season runs 09 - 25 May.
Adults $40 and Concession $35.

02/04/2024

Heritage Expeditions - New Zealand owned/based company and Ambassadors for conservation, pioneers of discovery, and leaders in Expedition Travel - come join them on one of their wonderful expeditions offering unparalleled travel experience. Heritage Expedition offers dazzling small ship cruising experience. As a Kiwi owned and operated company since 1984, they've been sharing the natural wonders and beauty of Fiordland for 40 years

New Zealand
With 15,000 kilometres of coastline New Zealand's awe-inspiring fiords, gold sand beaches, hidden coves, tranquil waterways, native forests and marine reserves are perfect for small ship expedition cruising and travel.

Some of their upcoming Expeditions in New Zealand are :
* Discover Marlborough Sounds - 7 days from $5,645 per person twin share basis departing 1st and 7th May 2024
* Southern Fiords Discovery - 7 days from $6375 per person twin share departing 4th July, and 10th July 2024.
* All the Fiords - 10 days from $8195 per person twin share departing 16th July , 18th August 2024

Have we got your interest? Come in and see Anna, or Pauline to discuss, plan and book this wonderful adventure of a life time. ☎🙋👏🛥🛳🇳🇿

27/03/2024

26/03/2024

The shoulder season autumn (March to May), offers a perfect balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. During these times, you'll have a greater chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility and serenity that Aotearoa-New Zealand has to offer. A great time to explore NZ. Always wanted to visit Arrowtown in the Autumn with its stunning autumn leaves? A train trip to see the fresh snow on the Southern Alps or a Coastal Train journey to appreciate the beautiful stunning coast line from Christchurch to Picton? Or thinking of a Milford Sound boat cruise in autumn offering fewer crowds, less rain and still a lot of boat cruises to choose from? So many options 👍👏👀

Come in and see us here at the Kaiapoi isite Visitor Centre - speak to Anna, or Pauline or phone 03 327 3134 🇳🇿☎️🙋‍♀️☺️

23/03/2024

Have you thought of a short trip to the lovely alpine village of Methven? 🗻 Not too far, but a wonderful change of scenery!

Methven is a small town in the Canterbury region. It is located near the western edge of the Canterbury Plains, 35 km north of Ashburton and 95 km west of Christchurch.

The town offers a perfect escape, and caters for all budgets. Just over one hour from Christchurch on Inland Scenic Route 72, this Alpine-themed village buzzes in winter, while in summer it is busy events such as markets, multi-sport challenges, and has a very informative Mt Hutt Memorial Hall that hosts the Art Gallery, NZ Alpine & Agriculture Encounter, New Zealand Ski Heritage Museum.

Fancy a soak in the new Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa - a unique experience in that the pools are the first solar powered hot pools in the southern hemisphere. (Bookings essential)
Relax while soaking in the Southern alpine views!

Have we got your interest?
Come and see Anna or Pauline at the Kaiapoi isite Visitor Centre - let us help organise your trip to Methven.

Phone us on 03 327 3134 📞 ✅👍🏌️‍♂️🏂

20/03/2024

Brrrrr there is snow on the mountains! ❄️

A perfect time for a day tour to enjoy the beauty of the first snowfall of the year.

From Christchurch travel by road to Springfield and board the world famous TranzAlpine train to travel through the Southern Alps to Arthurs Pass, viewing the alpine scenery through panoramic windows.

The TranzAlpine is renowned as one of the top ten train journeys in the world. From Arthurs Pass tour by road over the snow-capped Southern Alps in the Arthurs Pass National Park, and on to the Otira Gorge with photo stops.

Time and weather permitting visit the old village of Otira before returning to Arthurs Pass for lunch (optional). After lunch explore the village and some of the many walks.

The return journey to Christchurch is by road, stopping for a visit at the Conservation Area of Castle Hill Rocks.
Then on to a farm for late afternoon tea, followed by a sheep shearing and sheep mustering demonstration.

Starts in Christchurch at 7.30 am
Return 5.30 pm
From $415 per person.

Don't think it! Book it! Call Anna or Pauline 03 327 3134 🗻📞🚐🚉

12/03/2024

Easter fun at Woodend Beach Horse Riding

11/03/2024

Thinking of a lovely day trip or overnight to Akaroa from Christchurch - daily departures 😀
Return fares only $65.00 per Adult , $45.00 per Child (Senior/Student $5 off)

Departs Christchurch at: 9:00 am (Christchurch City Bus Interchange - Lichfield Street). Departs Akaroa at: 4:00 pm.

✅Comfortable modern Coach Transport
✅Informative driver commentary
✅Drive through introduction of the Akaroa Village
✅Photo stops en route including Little River (Historic Railway Station, Craft shop, and Railway wagons)
✅The 'Hilltop Tavern' 470m above sea level (Café/Bar with Panoramic views across the Akaroa Harbour Bays & surrounding farming areas) Weather permitting
✅A visit to the Barry's Bay Traditional Cheese Factory for cheese tasting. Cheese, Wine, and local produce are available for purchase.

After arriving into Akaroa - enjoy the day exploring this wonderful idyllic town, hire a kayak from the Akaroa isite, or join an Akaroa Nature Cruise (at an additional cost from $109 per person). Experience cruising through an extinct volcanic crater and encounter the world's rarest and smallest dolphin, the Hector dolphin.

Don't think it , book it - call Anna or Pauline! (03) 327 3134 🐬🚌☺️👍

05/03/2024

Let Kaiapoi isite organise your next outing to our local Waipara Wineries - starts in Christchurch between 12:00 – 12:30pm and pick up and drop offs can be arranged at Woodend by request. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy a lovely day tasting our local drop 🥂🍇🥂🍇

Explore 3 of North Canterbury’s boutique vineyards. From Christchurch it is only 45 minute drive north through the New Zealand countryside to the Waipara Valley, well known for its warm, dry climate and rich alluvial soils, ideal for superior wine production. Over 40 vineyards and wineries pepper the landscape of the valley, with Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominating local plantings.

Tour duration approx. 5 hours. This tour provides a lunch at Waipara Springs Winery . The platter lunch includes tastes of both a regional and New Zealand flavor and is the perfect accompaniment to some of this wineries fine wines. Tour is from $160 per person. Tour operates daily based on minimum of four passengers.

You must be 18 years of age and present a valid photo ID in order to consume alcohol. Passport recommended.

Call to book with Anna or Pauline now! (03) 327 3134 🙂

29/02/2024

Bounce into Easter with this amazing deal from KiwiRail! 😊

Book an eggs-traordinary Easter family holiday.
Child Fares for $25! Come into see us at the Kaiapoi isite (143 Williams St) or call us on 03 327 3134 to book your family holiday.

Please note the terms and conditions: Valid for children aged 2-14 years • minimum of one adult • available for Scenic Class only (excludes Scenic Plus) • valid for new bookings made between 22 February and 28 April 2024 only • valid for travel between 29 March and 28 April 2024 • Offer may be withdrawn at any time • Normal fare conditions apply • Not available in conjunction with any other offer • Subject to availability. 🐇

Keep up to date: https://visitwaimakariri.co.nz/packages/

27/02/2024

Silverstreams Annual Duck Race is back and set to be bigger and better than ever before! 🦆🦆🦆
Saturday 9th March 2024.
Check out the link for more information;
https://fb.me/e/5ZEh6NPP2

26/02/2024

Mark your calendars this March 📅

From fast-paced bike events, family music events, several fairs, markets and an iconic A&P Show... there's plenty to see in do in Waimakariri this coming month!

***Please note, the Rakahuri Rage Mountain Bike that was set for 10 March has now been cancelled.

👉Know of an event coming up? Add it here: https://visitwaimakariri.co.nz/add-your-event-to-our-website/
👉Sign up to receive a calendar direct to your inbox each month: https://visitwaimakariri.co.nz/events-calendar-signup/
👉All events: https://visitwaimakariri.co.nz/events/

30/01/2024

Fantastic Fiordland 💙

Save on Doubtful Sound cruises with RealNZ this summer. If you book with Kaiapoi isite now until February 12, you can enjoy a 30% discount on the overnight cruise aboard the Wanderer and 20% off a day cruise departing at 7.30am from Manapouri.

Valid for travel between February 2 to March 28.

Pop into the isite at 143 Williams St soon - at this price, spaces will fill fast! 💙

08/01/2024

New Year, new plans? 🧳 Need to know the deals? Sign up to the Kaiapoi isite newsletter which will land in your inbox once every 2 months. Get information on current specials, the services we offer and what's going on around the Waimakariri.

Email us today to join up! ✅

[email protected]

02/01/2024

Did you know we sell KIWICAMP keys? Just $5.

KiwiCamp is a facility block providing the all the basic services that travellers need. From laundry and dish washing to power points to toilets/showers KiwiCamp has it covered.

The pick and choose pay model means that after you purchase your digital tag key (RRP $5.00), you’re able to "tap to operate" any of the services you want to use at the camps! This can include setting up camp for the night or just using the services.

Setting up and using the digital tag key is easy! Download the app or visit www.kiwicash.nz to set up your account, buy a key from Kaiapoi isite, and start swiping for access to:

🚍Secure Parking
💦Hot Showers
🍴Dishwashing/cooking Facilities
👗Laundry Facilities
♻️Waste Recycling Station
🚰Water filling station
🔌Secure power points (charging laptop, phone etc).
✅Caravan powered sites.
😃Free WiFi
🕳Dump stations (some sites).

All campers and travellers are able to use the facilities! Whether you have a self-contained vehicle, non-self-contained vehicle or a tent, the facilities meet your needs.

https://book.kiwicamp.nz/

26/12/2023

We are open between Christmas 🎄and New Year 🥂 Grab a brand new Waimakariri cycle trail map, lots of ideas for local activities on, and off the water, and help with your travel plans throughout NZ.

Love to see you! 😎

Plan your adventure and learn why you should bring your bike with this handy cycling guide showcasing the Waimakariri trails.

19/12/2023

Just over the Mandeville bridge in Kaiapoi, you can hire yourself a paddle board or kayak from KORE, for an adventure on the river.

What a relaxing thing to do in the silly season!

Call to check times or to book on 021 669 474 ☀️
https://www.kore.co.nz/

19/12/2023

17/12/2023

Holiday Hours ⭐️🎁
Sunday 24th Dec - Tues 26 Dec Closed
Weds 27 Dec - Friday 29 Dec 10am - 4pm Open
Sat 30 Dec 10am - 2pm Open
Sunday 31 Dec - Tues 02 Jan 2024 Closed

From Weds 03 Jan 2024, usual hours return.

03/12/2023

Call in to the Kaiapoi isite for your map and guide to Devlins's Christmas lights 🤩🎅✨