If you’re looking for day-trip inspiration, we’ve got some suggestions. Located 25 miles away, Kaikoura is worth jumping in the car for. Kaikoura Beach, Peninsula Walkway and Kaikoura Museum alone make the drive out worthwhile. The locals will also likely point you in the direction of Hanmer Springs, 35 miles away. If you only see one thing here, let it be Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve. (But we’d also recommend Conical Hill and Hanmer Springs Ski Area.)