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The Marvel of Methven
Situated in the Canterbury region of South Island, this small town boasts a scenic location at the food of the Southern Alps. Skiing is the major source of tourism for Methven, as it is the closest town to the Mount Hutt ski field. Because of this, Methven can be considered a seasonal town. However, this doesn’t mean the city withers away during the warmer months – it just blossoms fully in the winter. Once the snow melts, popular recreational activities around here include hot air ballooning, mountain biking, jet boating, fishing, and golfing. Methven is also home to a Lord of the Rings filming location, and the annual Mountain Thunder motorcycle street race.
Master the Slopes
Methven is located about a 30-minute drive from Mount Hutt, which boasts South Island’s largest skiable area. It is also often the first mountain to open its slopes for the season in the southern hemisphere. Here, you will find a wide range of course difficulties, from basic beginner to daredevil-like expert. The most challenging course involves a trail through rock formations referred to as “The Towers”. Views from the top extend all the way to the Pacific Ocean. At the bottom of the mountain, you will find a base lodge with restaurants, bars, and ski lessons. No accommodations exist on the mountain, so visitors opt for Methven as their home base for holidays. Most hotels are situated along the main route 72/state highway 77, and are easily accessible from the road. The season generally runs from June to October, and some hotels in the area are known to operate seasonally. Thrill seekers can also opt to go heliskiing or heliboarding on one of the three nearby mountain ranges.
Step onto A Movie Set
Nearby Mount Sunday is well known for its setting for the capital of Rohan, Edoras, in the movie trilogy Lord of the Rings. It is situated within the Hakatere Conservation Park, located about an hour-long drive away from Methven. The set for the village, unfortunately, is no longer there, even though it took nine months to build. However, the area still boasts incredible scenery and spectacular views that are worth the trip. Guided tours are offered from Methven, where you can learn more about the film and the area, see some footage from behind the scenes, and even handle movie replicas. Fans who would like to take things to the next level can continue and take a hike up to Mount Sunday for even more amazing views over the countryside and the river plain.
The Sound of Thunder
Methven is well known for its annual motorcycle street race, Mountain Thunder. It is held every year on Easter Saturday on the Methven Racecourse in the town centre. All ages are welcome. For the day, the streets of Methven are transformed into a racing route, where all types of motorcycles (even sidecars) compete against one another. Some cyclists reach speeds over 120 MPH. The event doesn’t get its name from thin air – it does get pretty loud. Therefore, visitors are highly advised to wear earplugs. If you don’t bring your own, they can be found at the event. In addition, the event is also for a great cause. It is hosted by the Lions Club and doubles as a fundraiser for the organisation. If you’re planning on attending, make sure to book your hotel ahead of time. It is held on Easter weekend after all, and hotels will get busy fast.
Masterpieces and Modern Art
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend a few hours indoors, pay a visit to the Methven Art Gallery, located within the Methven Heritage Centre. It boasts both local and national artists, many of which are highly recognised. Exhibitions change monthly, so each visit will offer you something new. The collections range widely, from classic and picturesque paintings of scenery, to abstract modern art. The gallery often hosts opening events where you can meet and mingle with the artists themselves. The annual Christmas Cash and Carry Art Exhibition is the best event to attend. There, you have a chance to purchase some of the best pieces of the year. It’s an excellent opportunity to purchase a unique souvenir.