Explore
North Canterbury's
Wine Region
01
Discover South Bank
Located on Georges Road – also known as 'South Bank Waipara' – The Starling Homestead is an ideal base to explore the region from. This scenic stretch of road is home to three of the region's finest family-owned and operated wineries, including Terrace Edge, Georges Road Wines and The Bone Line, as well as the Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park.
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Situated at the heart of these attractions, The Starling Homestead also offers guests easy access to the regions multitude of vineyards, most of which are family-run.
With approximately 18 wineries within a 10km radius, visitors can indulge in plenty of wine-tasting, sight-seeing and unforgettable experiences.
Be sure to try the region's famous Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling, which grow particular well due to the diverse range of land formations in the area, from the Volcanic Banks Peninsular to the Clay and Limestone soils of the Waipara and Waikari Valleys.
02
Uncover Fossils and visit a Sculpture park
Approximately 10km further along Georges Road you can explore a stretch of the Waipara River where New Zealand's first fossils were discovered in 1859.
There are also significant rock formations, similar to the well known Moeraki Boulders, where large perfectly formed stone spheres, are visible in the cliff side and river bed.
This is a particularly beautiful river walk which involves wading through some stretches to reach your destination. If you enjoy connecting with nature and don't mind getting your feet wet then we highly recommend this outing!
For more info please visit the link below
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On the same stretch of road you will pass the Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park, where resident artist Raymond Herber creates incredible works of art crafted from his preferred medium, metal.
Enjoy a self guided tour of the grounds which also include sculptures from other notable artists, Bon Sutter, Rory McDougall, Hammond Peek, Allan Coleman, Shaugn Briggs, Robert Baker and Leonie Combrink.
Finish your visit by watching Raymond at work on the forge.
For more info please visit the link below
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03
Take a short Road Trip
North Canterbury is home to some of the regions most exciting destinations.
Hamner Springs, Mount Lyford Ski Field and Kaikoura are all within 90minutes drive of the Starling Homestead.
Combine a two night stay with a short road trip to soak in the hot pools at Hamner Springs, spend a day on the slopes, whale watch or indulge in a crayfish lunch in beautiful Kaikoura!
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Best of all, these attractions are particularly special during the winter months.
The Visit Hurunui website is a great place to source your road trip inspo from, with many attractions and upcoming events regularly updated.
See link below
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04
Truffle Hunt
Did you know June through to August is Truffle season?
Kings Truffles holds bespoke Truffle hunts & events on their Truffle farm, located 10mins away in Waipara.
But no matter the time of year, there are always delicious Truffle products available to purchase from their online store.
Visit the link below for more information on upcoming Truffle hunts or to purchase products.
05
Weka Pass Railway
Experience the travel of yesteryear...Weka Pass Railway runs Vintage Steam or Diesel Electric Locomotive tours through the unique Limestone beauty of the Weka Pass at certain times of the year.
Located less than 10 minutes away from The Starling Homestead, please visit the link below for ticketing information
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