Things To Do
in Ashton
Ashton is a charming town located on the North Island of New Zealand. It is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills and lush green forests. The town is known for its peaceful atmosphere and friendly community.
Ashton offers various outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike to the stunning Ashton Peak for panoramic views. Pack a delicious picnic to enjoy at the summit.
Explore the local art galleries and craft shops in the quaint town center. Don't forget to grab a coffee at a local café while you're there!
Enjoy dinner at a charming restaurant that features local cuisine. Finish the day with stargazing at a nearby dark sky reserve.
Visit the Ashton Botanic Gardens to soak in the vibrant flora and serene environment. Take a leisurely walk along the garden paths.
Head to the river for some kayaking or paddle boarding fun. It's a great way to cool off and appreciate the natural beauty.
Dine by the riverside at a cozy eatery and savor fresh, seasonal dishes. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll along the water's edge.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic rural landscapes and natural beauty
- Peaceful and quiet environment
- Close-knit community atmosphere
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing
- Lower cost of living compared to urban areas
- Limited access to amenities and services
- Potential isolation from larger cities
- Less job opportunities compared to urban areas
- Limited educational facilities
- Variable weather conditions may not be suitable for everyone
Best Activities in Ashton
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic mountain bike trails in Ashton, suitable for all skill levels, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Experience the natural beauty of Ashton through its various hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
Enjoy fishing in the local rivers and lakes, where you can catch a variety of fish while relaxing in a serene outdoor setting.
Set up camp in one of the many picturesque camping spots around Ashton, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Discover a diverse range of bird species in their natural habitat, making Ashton a great spot for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
Paddle through tranquil waterways and lakes around Ashton, offering a peaceful way to enjoy the local scenery and wildlife.
Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife through outdoor photography, with numerous scenic viewpoints and natural wonders in the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ashton with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ashton
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine landscapes
Provides picturesque views of crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset
Popular hiking trail with breathtaking vistas of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps
Scenic hike leading to a viewpoint overlooking Diamond Lake and the surrounding area
Food in Ashton
Ashton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maori method of cooking that involves slow cooking meat and vegetables in an earth oven, giving the food a smoky and earthy flavor. Must-try at the Maori cultural events or specialty restaurants like Te Puia in Rotorua.
Must-Try!
A classic New Zealand ice cream flavor consisting of vanilla ice cream studded with small, solid lumps of honeycomb toffee. Available at local ice cream shops and dairies across Ashton.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ashton better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market showcasing fresh produce, artisanal food products, and local treats. Open every Saturday morning, offering a variety of street food options such as gourmet burgers, Maori fried bread, and fresh seafood.
Look out for the iconic fish and chips vans parked near Ashton's waterfront, serving up crispy battered fish, hot chips, and other seafood delights. A perfect spot for a quick and delicious meal by the sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Kiwis value politeness and friendliness. Always greet people with a smile and use 'please' and 'thank you' regularly. It’s customary to be respectful in conversations and interactions.
In many homes, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering. Be observant of the hosts' practices, and if they remove their shoes, it’s polite to do the same.
New Zealanders have a strong connection to nature and the environment. Always follow local guidelines when it comes to outdoor activities and respect public spaces, wildlife, and land by leaving no trace of your visit.
Safety
Tipping in Ashton
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ashton, New Zealand, tipping is not a common practice. Service charges are typically included in the bill, especially in restaurants and cafes. However, rounding up the bill or leaving small change as a token of appreciation for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.
Payment methods in Ashton are versatile, with credit and debit cards widely accepted in most establishments. Cash remains in use, but electronic payments, including contactless options like PayWave and mobile wallets, are increasingly popular. It is advisable to check the payment options available at specific venues before visiting.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Ashton, New Zealand as the weather starts to warm up and the countryside comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery. It's also a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Ashton, New Zealand with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's perfect for enjoying outdoor adventures, water sports, and exploring the scenic landscapes.
Autumn brings stunning foliage colors to Ashton, New Zealand, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather is still comfortable for outdoor activities, and it's a great time for photography and enjoying the autumn harvest festivals.
Winter in Ashton, New Zealand is a quieter time with cooler temperatures, and occasional snowfall in the surrounding mountains. It's a good time for winter sports enthusiasts and those who prefer a more peaceful atmosphere.
Ashton at Night
Hiking in Ashton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for all fitness levels.
A picturesque trail that circles the serene Lake Hāwea, ideal for a relaxing hike amid beautiful landscapes.
A short and rewarding hike that leads to the stunning resurgence of the Riwaka River, surrounded by lush native bush.
This coastal hike features stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands, with some challenging sections for experienced hikers.
A long-distance hike along the coastline of Dunedin, showcasing cliffs, wildlife, and breathtaking ocean views.
Aiports
How to reach Ashton by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, located approximately 490 km north of Ashton.
The second largest airport in New Zealand, located approximately 150 km southeast of Ashton.
The third largest international airport in New Zealand, located approximately 340 km northwest of Ashton.
An international airport located approximately 220 km southwest of Ashton, known for its scenic views.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Ashton, primarily of European descent.
The indigenous people of New Zealand, representing a significant cultural group within Ashton.
Includes individuals from various Pacific Island nations, contributing to the multicultural makeup of Ashton.
A diverse group encompassing various nationalities and ethnicities, growing in number within the community.
Includes individuals from different backgrounds and ethnicities not categorized in the major groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport with strong local support, often played in clubs and schools throughout Ashton.
A widely played sport in Ashton, enjoyed by both children and adults, with local competitions and leagues.
A popular sport among women and girls in Ashton, with regular matches and a community focus.
Enjoyed by many in the area, football clubs are active in the community, with youth and senior teams.
Field hockey has a presence in Ashton, with clubs offering programs for all ages and skill levels.
Various athletic events take place in Ashton, promoting fitness and competition among locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Ashton offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with creative options like kumara (sweet potato) burgers, vegan pies, and seasonal vegetable platters.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free fish and chips, seafood paella, and various international cuisines offered by accommodating eateries throughout Ashton.