Things To Do In New Zealand: Castle Hill / Kura Tāwhiti
What: Castle Hill / Kura Tāwhiti
Where: Canterbury, South Island
Castle Hill, known as Kura Tāwhiti in Māori, meaning ‘treasured lands’, is a remarkable collection of limestone boulders nestled in NZ’s South Island. Just over an hour from Christchurch, this labyrinth of towering rock formations was once called the “spiritual centre of the universe” by the Dalai Lama.
Upon taking the Great Alpine Highway from Christchurch, visitors are greeted by an expanse of colossal limestone formations that have been shaped over millions of years. The area is a haven for rock climbers and boulderers, offering natural climbing challenges set amidst breath-taking scenery. For those preferring a more leisurely exploration, well-marked trails meander through the formations.
The area has even served as the backdrop for famous film and TV shows such as ‘The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe’, and has a striking resemble to Middle-Earth in the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.
Read more about the fascinating Castle Hill here.