Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
8
Getting There & Away
Akaroa is only 82km from Christchurch. From November to April,
Akaroa Shuttle
( 0800
500 929;
www.akaroashuttle.co.nz
)
operates daily departing Christchurch at 8.30am and 2pm,
returning from Akaroa at 10.30am, 3.35pm and 4.30pm. Bookings are recommended.
from Christchurch at 9.15am, returning from Akaroa at 4pm.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Methven
03 / POP 1140
This small town is inland from Ashburton on the SH77, and during winter comes alive with
skiers who use it as a base for Mt Hutt and other nearby ski areas. During summer it's much
quieter.
4
Sleeping & Eating
Alpenhorn Chalet
( 03-302 8779;
www.alpenhorn.co.nz;
44 Allen St; dm $28, d $60-85; )
Trampers are well
catered for in this small, inviting home, complete with spa pool, log fire, free internet, com-
plimentary espresso coffee, and an in-house massage therapist.
HOSTEL$
HOSTEL$
Flashpackers
( 03-302 8999;
www.methvenaccommodation.co.nz;
cnr McMillan & Bank Sts; dm $25, d with/
without bathroom $80/70; )
This YHA-associated lodge has appealing dining and living
areas, a large kitchen and indoor and outdoor spa pools. Prices include breakfast.
SUPERMARKET$
Supervalue Supermarket
(cnr The Mall & McMillan St)
A more-than-adequate grocery shop.
CAFE$
Cafe Primo
(38 McMillan St; meals $10-18)
Sandwiched in and around a raft of Kiwiana are tasty cakes and
legendary bacon-and-egg sandwiches. This sunny cafe is also home to Methven's best cof-
fee.
