If you’re looking for day hikes that capture that true backcountry adventure feeling without committing to a full multi-day tramp, Mid Canterbury is full of hidden gems. From alpine summits to lake circuits and iconic Lord of the Rings landscapes, there’s a lifetime of exploring packed into this corner of the South Island.

The Hakatere Conservation Park is full of hidden gems, and one of the lesser-known day hikes takes you up to Erewhon Hut. Tucked away in the upper reaches of the Rangitata area, this short but rewarding walk gives you a taste of Canterbury high country history, sweeping views, and a glimpse into a unique chapter of New Zealand skiing.

I have completed the Bus Stop circuit on Mt Somers many times before, it's a thoroughly enjoyable day out over varied terrain and scenery, encompassing loose rock, open tussock hills and waterfalls.

When time is short and the weather is stunning, there is nothing better than doing the Lake Clearwater Circuit. From Ashburton it takes...

Potts Hut, located in Hakatere Conservation Park, exudes history from every metal panel and nail. Once upon a time, this hut was part of Hakatere Station and used by the annual musterers. Scan the walls for long enough and you begin to feel the history come alive, the earliest names date back to 1906.

My plans to head up to Mt Guy on Saturday were looking interesting, on Tuesday night we had the tramping club meeting and I had to get up and tell everyone what the plan was. I had a rough plan, that was potentially going to change on the day, but I was resolved to head out regardless.

It’s been a few years since I have set foot on the flanks of Mt Winterslow, but time passes quickly and it’s always good to get a different perspective. A number of years ago, I was still a new member of the local tramping club and eager to experience my big new back yard of Mid Canterbury.