Kura Tawhiti means “The treasure from a distant land,” and I agree. This spectacular area has incredible scenic views, and one of the most popular stops, Arthur’s Pass Drive, is nestled among the eastern range of the southern Alps. This natural, historical, and cultural wonder of New Zealand’s South Island. Castle Hill – Canterbury, New Zealand
“No One Has Ever Described The Place Where I Have Just Arrived: This Is The Emotion That Makes Me Want To Travel. It Is One Of The Greatest Reasons To Go Anywhere.”
– Paul Theroux, The Pillars Of Hercules
How to get there
Kura Tawhiti is located around an hour and thirty minutes away from Christchurch. The rocks of Castle Hill, the other name for Kura Tawhiti, is the local pilgrimage for rock climbers and skiers. In the winter, it is cold and with snow; in the summer, it is green and warm.
This unique type of landscaping is known as Karst Landscape. In other words, the dissolving of the bedrock (created a long time ago under the sea) created sinkholes and sinking streams with caves and springs.
About Castle Hill
The tribe Ngai Tahu has a special bond to this place that stretches unbroken from distant ancestors to the present generation. Historic rocks, carvings, and art are located in a few rest areas.
Castle Hill has a lot to offer whether you are a Lord of the Rings fan (some scenes were filmed in this area), a rock climber, a hiker, or enjoy nature.
If you go further, you’ll cross the Arthur Pass and end up on the West Coast. Hokitika – Always Live Loud
Cave Stream Scenic Reserve
Lake Pearson
Cass Station
This trip was a photography class. I enjoyed spending time in this beautiful nature; it was fun, but I broke my camera because the wind was too strong, and I fell from my tripod. Oh, well… I’ll get a new one!
“I Travel Not To Go Anywhere, But To Go. I Travel For Travel’s Sake. The Great Affair Is To Move.”
Robert Louis Stevenson