Methven

Hiking

Mt. Somers Track. One of New Zealand's top 10 walkways, the Mt. Somers Track is a great way to get a taste of the subalpine New Zealand bush. Start at the Mt. Somers-Woolshed Creek end and hike downhill to the Staveley end and Sharplin Falls. The 16-km (10-mi) walk will take one to two days, and there are two huts to stay in along the way—or do it in reverse. Call the Staveley Village Store (03/303-0859) for information on transport to the end of the trail; there are a number of small guiding companies. www.ashburtondistrict.co.nz/newzealand/hiking/.

Rakaia Gorge Walkway. Leaving from just below the Rakaia River Gorge bridge, the Rakaia Gorge Walkway provides upstream access to the northern bank of the river and offers easy walking. You can also take a jet-boat upriver and walk back—just name your distance. www.ashburtondistrict.co.nz/newzealand/hiking/.

More Sports and Outdoors

• Ballooning
• Hiking

• Jet-Boating
• Skiing