"Ashburton" - South Island, Canterbury, New Zealand.

Ashburton

The agriculture and pastoral hub of one of New Zealand's richest regions. First surveyed in 1848 and as agriculture and farming grew a water race was constructed, this now extends over 2250 kilometres. To mark the 100th anniversary of Ashburton, the earthquake unsafe Clock from the old post office was restored and resurrected to form the Land mark of the town.

The Culture

Some Archaic Maori campsites dating back approximately 500 years have been found in the area. Nomadic in nature they travelled the coast and river searching for food. For more information on the history of this area visit the Historical Society Museum, not far from the Town Clock.

Travel Through Time

You may not be travelling by Penny Farthing, but a stop over in Ashburton will allow you time to appreciate the attractions of the area and taste the fine food fresh from the fields.   Many displays in the museum, cover all the cultural changes that the area has gone through and a working display of the waterways, show the determination of the early settlers to achieve.

Arts and Crafts

Like many New Zealand towns the arts and crafts of the area flourish.  A stop over for a cup of tea or coffee and a stroll around the Ashford Craft Village may be very rewarding. Here a display of the Wool products from "Coolabah", Coloured Romney and Merino Sheep, show just how far the Crafts have come.

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