Winter Festival lights up Hanmer

Hanmer Springs in North Canterbury was buzzing over the weekend as the third annual Alpine Winter Festival got under way.

The alpine resort village is transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland at night, awash with coloured lights, dazzling displays and revellers enjoying the chilly temperatures.

Organisers say the goal of the festival is to create vibrancy in the village and increase visitor numbers over the school holidays.

There's a wide range of winter-themed activities over the 11 days, including icy plunge pools, a glowing mini-golf course and stunning light displays illuminating the night.

Evening light tree climbing is also on offer for the more adventurous. 

The Alpine Winter Festival wraps up next Tuesday.

https://visithurunui.co.nz/alpine-winter-festival/

 - By Geoff Sloan, made with the support of NZ On Air