Things to Do in Ashburton

• Adventure Activities
  Majestic mountains, the sprawling Canterbury Plains and rivers of crystal clear water provide the setting for activities such as fishing for salmon and trout, climbing, skiing, hiking, whitewater rafting, skydiving, hot air ballooning and mountain biking.
• Ashburton Museum & Art Gallery
  Located in Baring Square, the museum is open daily except Mondays, with displays relating to local history and contemporary art exhibitions upstairs.
• Museum of Woodworking & Ornamental Woodturning
  Housed in a woodturner's worskshop, the museum has a good collection of antique ornamental lathes.
• Fishing
  The Ashburton River is excellent for trout fishing, although a licence is required.
• Ashburton Walkway
  This 19km, 5hr walk (one way) follows the river to the sea, providing a fascinating look at the braided Ashburton River and the birdlife it supports. This includes the black-billed gull, wrybill plover and black-fronted tern. Just before the river mouth, a short climb leads to good views of the coast.