Ashburton—Exploring the Beauty of New Zealand’s Garden Town
Ashburton is a vibrant town just 45 minutes south of Christchurch in Canterbury, New Zealand. With its vibrant shops, gardens, and attractions, Ashburton is an excellent destination for a daytrip or a weekend getaway.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Ashburton, from its history and attractions to its accommodations and dining options. So, if you’re looking to explore one of the Garden Towns of New Zealand, then read on for the guide to Ashburton.
Discover the History of Ashburton
Ashburton is a town with a rich and interesting history. It was founded in 1858 by John and William Heaton, two English immigrants who purchased the land from the Maori people. The Heatons named the town after their hometown of Ashburton in Devon, England.
The Heatons set up a flax mill, which was the first of many industries in the town. It was followed by a brickworks, a tannery, a flour mill, a cheese factory, and other businesses. These businesses helped the town to flourish and it was officially incorporated as a borough in 1878.
Today, Ashburton is the largest town in Mid Canterbury and one of the top tourist destinations in the Canterbury region.
Take a Tour of Ashburton’s Attractions
Ashburton is full of attractions that will delight visitors of all ages. Here are some of the top things to do in Ashburton:
- Visit the Ashburton Aviation Museum: Located on the grounds of the Ashburton Airport, this museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft from World War I and World War II.
- Explore the Ashburton Art Gallery: This gallery features a wide range of works from New Zealand and international artists.
- Check out the Ashburton Domain: This large park is a popular spot for picnics and family activities. It features a large lake, walking trails, a playground, and more.
- Take a stroll through the Ashburton Water Gardens: This beautiful garden is home to a variety of flowers, trees, and shrubs. It’s a great spot for a peaceful stroll and a picnic.
Where to Stay & Eat in Ashburton
Ashburton has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. You can stay in a hotel, motel, bed and breakfast, holiday park, or even a luxury lodge. There are also plenty of dining options in Ashburton. The town has a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs that serve up delicious local and international cuisine.
Ready to Visit Ashburton?
From its fascinating history to its many attractions and dining options, Ashburton is a great destination for a daytrip or a weekend getaway. So, if you’re looking to explore one of the Garden Towns of New Zealand, then Ashburton is the perfect place to do so.