Inland Scenic Route 72: The Canterbury Back Roads Locals Love — 223 km Road Through the Heart of Canterbury
Ask a Cantabrian how to drive south from Christchurch and many will give the same advice. Skip State Highway 1. The main highway runs flat and straight across the plains, with trucks for company and not much to look at. Inland Scenic Route 72 runs parallel to it, tucked against the foot of the Southern Alps. It takes a little longer, but it passes turquoise gorges, quiet farm towns, forest walks and some of the best country cafés in Canterbury.
This guide skips the usual tourist checklist. Instead, it focuses on the places locals actually stop, the shortcuts they take and the small details that make this road special.
What Is Inland Scenic Route 72?
Inland Scenic Route 72 is a 223 km touring road through the heart of Canterbury. It starts at Amberley in the north and ends at Winchester, just south of Geraldine. Along the way it passes Oxford, Methven, Mount Somers and Geraldine.
The road was once a state highway. It was named State Highway 72 in 1976, then downgraded in 1991 because traffic was so light. That quietness is exactly why locals love it today. The route was rebranded as a tourist drive and is marked with brown scenic route signs.
On one side you have the snowy wall of the Southern Alps. On the other, the green Canterbury Plains stretch out towards the sea. In between, the road crosses wide braided rivers and passes through farm towns where people still wave from passing utes.
Inland Scenic Route 72 Map
Why Locals Take the Back Road
There are a few good reasons this route has a loyal local following.
- Less traffic. Most trucks and holiday traffic stick to State Highway 1, so the inland road is calm and relaxed.
- Better views. The mountains stay in sight for most of the drive, especially on clear winter mornings.
- Real country towns. The small towns along the way have kept their character, with old pubs, bakeries and general stores.
- Easy detours. Ski fields, gorges, forest walks and hot pools are all within a few minutes of the road.
The drive takes around three hours without stops. Most locals stretch it over a full day, or spend a night in Methven or Geraldine.
Local Favourites Along the Way
These stops run from north to south. You do not need to see them all. Pick the ones that suit your trip and leave time to wander.
Oxford Forest and Ryde Falls
Oxford is a small, friendly town at the northern end of the route. Locals head for the Oxford Forest, where several walking tracks wind through native and planted bush. The Ryde Falls walk is a favourite, with a waterfall tucked into the forest. It makes a peaceful first stop before the drive gets going.
The Waimakariri Gorge Bridge
South of Oxford, the road crosses the Waimakariri River at a narrow gorge. The old iron girder bridge here was built in 1876 and 1877. It carried a branch railway line until 1933. Pull over at the river to watch the grey-blue water race through the rocks.
Rakaia Gorge
Rakaia Gorge is one of the most photographed spots on the route. The Rakaia River leaves the mountains here and squeezes through a narrow gorge of bright turquoise water. A historic wrought iron bridge, built in the early 1880s, still spans the gorge beside the modern road bridge.
Locals love the Rakaia Gorge Walkway, which follows the river past old coal mine sites and lookouts. If you want something faster, jet boat trips run through the gorge and offer a close look at the cliffs. Our guide to adventure activities in New Zealand has more ideas for thrill seekers.
Methven and Mt Hutt
Methven is a lively little town that changes with the seasons. In winter it fills with skiers heading up to the Mt Hutt ski field, which is known for its long season and wide views. Our guide to the best New Zealand ski resorts compares it with other fields around the country.
There are plenty of things to do in Methven outside ski season too. Soak in the Ōpuke Thermal Pools and Spa, a modern hot pool complex with views of the mountains. Take a hot air balloon flight over the plains at sunrise. Or simply grab a coffee and watch the farm trucks roll down the main street.
Sharplin Falls and Mt Somers
Near Staveley, a short walk through beech forest leads to Sharplin Falls. It is an easy outing and a favourite with local families. Keen walkers can tackle the Mt Somers Walkway, a longer track that passes old coal mines, rock formations and alpine tussock. Most people walk it as a full day or overnight trip using the huts on the mountain.
The Braided Rivers
Canterbury is famous for its braided rivers. These wide, stony riverbeds split into many shifting channels as they cross the plains. They are rare worldwide and are home to unusual birds such as the wrybill. The route crosses several of them, including the Rakaia and the Rangitata.
The Rangitata is popular for whitewater rafting in its upper gorge. The big rivers are also known for salmon fishing in late summer and autumn. Our guide to fishing in New Zealand covers licences and seasons.
Peel Forest
Just off the route near the Rangitata, Peel Forest protects some of the largest native tōtara trees in Canterbury. Easy walks lead to giant old trees and to waterfalls such as Emily Falls. There is a campground here too, making it a quiet place to stay among the birdsong.
Geraldine
Geraldine is the perfect end to Inland Scenic Route 72. This pretty town has tree-lined streets, craft shops, cafés and a strong local food scene. Visit the vintage car and machinery museum, or join a stargazing session at the local observatory on a clear night.
Geraldine is also the gateway to the Mackenzie Country. From here it is just over an hour’s drive west to Lake Tekapo and the start of the road towards Aoraki Mount Cook. See our Mount Cook and Mackenzie tours if you plan to carry on.
Local Tips for Driving Inland Scenic Route 72
- Learn the one-lane bridge rules. The route has several one-lane bridges. Look for the give way signs and the red and white arrows that show who goes first. Our guide to driving in New Zealand explains how they work.
- Expect farm traffic. Tractors, stock trucks and the odd mob of sheep are all part of the drive.
- Fuel up in the towns. Oxford, Methven and Geraldine have fuel, but there are long rural gaps between them.
- Try a farm stay. Many farms along the route welcome guests, giving you a real taste of Canterbury country life.
- Watch for winter ice. Shaded corners can stay icy on cold mornings, and the Mt Hutt access road may need chains.
Best Time to Drive
Each season brings something different to this Canterbury road trip. Winter means snowy mountains, ski fields and crisp blue mornings. Spring brings lambs to the paddocks and fresh green farmland. Summer is ideal for walks, rafting and long evenings. Autumn is many locals’ favourite, as the trees turn gold and the light softens over the plains. Read our tips on visiting New Zealand in autumn to plan your trip.
Final Thoughts
Inland Scenic Route 72 is the road locals choose when they have time to enjoy the journey. It trades the straight lines of State Highway 1 for turquoise gorges, forest walks, hot pools and friendly country towns. Take it slowly, stop where the locals stop and keep the mountains in view. It also slots easily into a longer South Island self-drive tour. For more ideas around Christchurch, see our Christchurch and Canterbury activities page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Inland Scenic Route 72?
Inland Scenic Route 72 is about 223 km long. It takes around three hours to drive without stops.
Where does Inland Scenic Route 72 start and end?
It runs from Amberley, north of Christchurch, to Winchester, just south of Geraldine. You can drive it in either direction.
Is Inland Scenic Route 72 better than State Highway 1?
It is slower, but it is far more scenic. It is one of the best scenic drives in Canterbury, with mountain views and quiet country towns.
What are the best things to do in Methven?
Popular options include skiing at Mt Hutt, soaking in the Ōpuke Thermal Pools, hot air ballooning and jet boating in the Rakaia Gorge.
Can you drive Inland Scenic Route 72 in winter?
Yes. The road stays open in winter, but watch for ice on shaded corners. Carry chains if you plan to drive up to the ski fields.
How do one-lane bridges work in New Zealand?
Signs show which direction has priority. If you see a give way sign or a small red arrow for your direction, wait for oncoming traffic to clear before crossing.
