Arthur's Pass accommodation from NZ$96

The Arthur’s Pass settlement was named after Arthur Dobson who took the initiative and opened up a more efficient route between Canterbury and the West Coast for the increased traffic after the gold discoveries of 1863. Arthur’s Pass National Park, the first of the South Island, was opened in 1929 to protect and showcase the area’s spectacular natural landscapes. You can reach the whole area on the historic highway and railway that passes through the park.

You might be looking for an active holiday. For skiing, the Temple Basin field is only five kilometres to the north of Arthur’s Pass and for summer activities the possibilities are endless. The area is a paradise for rock climbing and abseiling and there are tracks and facilities for orienteering and mountain biking. For something a little less strenuous there’s a wide choice of nature walks with various levels of challenge. Three tracks begin from convenient car parks just off the road and very close to the village. The Bridal Veil Walk will reward you with forest scenery and a stunning view from the lookout, while the five kilometre Arthur's Pass track winds along a path that roughly follows the highway and leads you to Jacks Hut - the restored roadman’s cottage, originally built in 1879. The third track takes in the Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall – a spectacular 131m plunge that is well worth the walk. Just off the highway, check out the Viaduct Lookout and watch out for the protected keas. They are the world's only alpine parrots and found only in this area.

Not far from the road, you might be lucky enough to see glow worms on the forest floor, or perhaps a Great Spotted Kiwi. For complete relaxation, you can pick a beautiful picnic spot just outside the village - try Daisy Flat which has good facilities. Or you might prefer the village’s cafes and restaurants.

What more could you ask for? You can fly into Christchurch and a shuttle coach service will take less than two hours to reach Arthur’s Pass. So don’t pass up this chance. Book your Christchurch flights and your Arthur’s Pass accommodation now and begin your Alpine adventure - New Zealand style!